ALL ABOUT FLU

 

We are in the midst of an influenza season. Hundreds of different viruses can infect the respiratory system and cause colds and the flu. The respiratory system is your throat, sinuses, windpipe (trachea) and lungs. Symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, head congestion and cough can also be caused by allergies.

Flu can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Flu symptoms usually come on suddenly. People who have flu often feel some or all of these signs and symptoms:

·       fever or feeling feverish/chills

·       cough

·       sore throat

·       runny or stuffy nose

·       muscle or body aches

·       headaches

·       fatigue (tiredness)

·       some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.

 

Varied Clinical Presentation

Most people who get flu will recover in a few days to less than two weeks, but some people will develop complications (such as pneumonia) as a result of flu, some of which can be life-threatening and result in death.

Sinus and ear infections are examples of moderate complications from flu, while pneumonia is a serious flu complication that can result from either flu virus infection alone or from co-infection of flu virus and bacteria. Other possible serious complications triggered by flu can include inflammation of the heart (myocarditis), brain (encephalitis) or muscle tissues (myositis, rhabdomyolysis), and multi-organ failure (for example, respiratory and kidney failure). Flu virus infection of the respiratory tract can trigger an extreme inflammatory response in the body and can lead to sepsis, the body's life-threatening response to infection. Flu also can make chronic medical problems worse. For example, people with asthma may experience asthma attacks while they have flu, and people with chronic heart disease may experience a worsening of this condition triggered by flu.

Serious problems related to flu can happen to anyone at any age, but some people are at higher risk of developing serious flu-related complications if they get sick. This includes people 65 years and older, people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), pregnant people and children younger than 5 years, but especially those younger than 2 years old.

If you often get symptoms of a cold or flu, there could be three reasons:

1.     You are exposed to more respiratory system viruses than most people

2.     You are more susceptible to catching respiratory viruses than most people

3.     Your symptoms are really caused by allergies. (You call the symptoms "colds" but they are not caused by viral infections.)

 

Emergency care

People experiencing these warning signs should obtain medical care right away.

In children

·       Fast breathing or trouble breathing

·       Bluish lips or face

·       Ribs pulling in with each breath

·       Chest pain

·       Severe muscle pain (child refuses to walk)

·       Dehydration (no urine for 8 hours, dry mouth, no tears when crying)

·       Not alert or interacting when awake

·       Seizures

·       Fever above 104 degrees Fahrenheit that is not controlled by fever-reducing medicine

·       In children younger than 12 weeks, any fever

·       Fever or cough that improve but then return or worsen

·       Worsening of chronic medical conditions

In adults

·       Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath

·       Persistent pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen

·       Persistent dizziness, confusion, inability to arouse

·       Seizures

·       Not urinating

·       Severe muscle pain

·       Severe weakness or unsteadiness

·       Fever or cough that improve but then return or worsen

·       Worsening of chronic medical conditions

 

Prevention

Vaccine

The best time to get the flu shot is the end of August and during September. The protection should last through the winter into March. Getting the flu shot at this time allows immune protection to build before the flu activity ramps up, and it makes it more likely that the protection will last through the winter. The flu shot does not work right away because it takes time for the body to develop antibodies, which help fight off the virus. It takes about two weeks after getting vaccinated for the flu shot to provide full protection. Some children may need two doses of the flu vaccine, which are given at least four weeks apart. Influenza is a nasty virus, particularly for older, frail people and people with underlying illnesses. But the more we all get vaccinated, the better we protect ourselves and others.

 

There are several different types of flu shots available — the one that is appropriate for you will depend on your age, health status, allergies and other factors. It’s always good to talk to a primary health care provider who knows you well. We use Influvac Quadri or Flu Quadri, which are quadrivalent inactivated influenza vaccines. These vaccines are manufactured using inactivated (killed) influenza virus grown in eggs. This egg-based flu shot contains four times the antigen of the standard-dose, inactivated virus vaccines to produce a stronger immune response in the body. It’s approved for individuals 65 and older. Cell based flu shot contains virus that was grown in cell culture, so it is completely egg-free.

 

Adjuvanted flu shot is an egg-based flu shot approved for people 65 and older that contains an adjuvant, which makes an individual have a stronger immune response. Recombinant flu shots are egg-free flu shot made using recombinant technology, which contains three times the antigens of standard-dose flu shots. Nasal spray vaccine is a nasal mist and it uses live, attenuated (weakened) virus, and it’s approved for people from 2 to 49 years of age. Senior citizens should go for recombinant flu shots or adjuvant flu shots. It's safe for pregnant people to get the flu shot during any trimester, which also helps protect the baby after birth according to National Centre for Disease Control.

 

Other measures to stop spread at home

When somebody in the family comes down with the flu, all it takes is a couple of hours for the virus to spread. From the kitchen to the bathroom, keep illness at bay with these room-specific strategies and prevention tips.  

In the kitchen

60 percent of refrigerator handles, drawer knobs, and light switches test positive for the flu virus in a home when one person in the family is sick? And, to top it all off, the virus can live for up to three days! So, keep germs from spreading by wiping down these hot spots and other frequently touched surfaces with disinfectant.  

 

In the bedroom

When someone in the family is sick, keep germs from spreading by washing your bedding daily and tumble dry on high heat. On this note, even though the linens may contain germs, it's okay to mix it with the rest of your family's laundry when in the wash. Alternatively, if your spouse is feeling under the weather, sleeping in a separate bed may feel unkind, but it's your best defense against the flu.

In the bathroom

Keeping the lid of the toilet closed when a family member is sick is essential. When you have a viral infection, the organisms are in your stool. And as unpleasant as it may sound, when you flush, germs are spat into the air, potentially contaminating nearby bathroom countertops, hand towels, and toothbrushes. But putting the toilet lid down before you flush ought to keep things in your bathroom germ-free.  

 

In the dining room

When someone in the family is feeling under the weather, serve Kadha. This contains abundant micro-nutrients, that help in recovery. I have discussed all about Khada in one of my previous blogs: https://surajitbrainwaves.blogspot.com/2020/07/kadha-my-grand-mas-magic-potion.html

 

 In the foyer

Keep hand sanitizer on your entryway table, serving as a reminder to clean your hands upon walking through the door. Studies show that over 80 percent of common infections are spread through contaminated hands, so using a hand sanitizer, even if it's just once a day, can seriously reduce your risk of getting sick. Airing out a room is also important when someone at home is feeling a little unwell. Opening a window, even if it's just for an hour, will help cleanse the air, allowing fresh oxygen to come in - making everyone at home feel much better.  

 

In the living room

Be sure to clean your remote controls with disinfectant to remove any germs. And be sure to give all doorknobs a wipe too - they tend to be a germ hot spot.   It may surprise you to discover that your workspace harbors 400 times more bacteria than your toilet. Whenever possible, be sure to use a disinfectant wipe to clean your desk and appliances like your phone and keyboard, at least once a week.

Any adult, who is exposed to young children a lot, such as parents and teachers, is exposed to all the viruses that children carry. Some people are more susceptible to allergies. Many people are allergic to things that are in outdoor or indoor air, such as pollen, dust, molds, or dander from household pets. I see lots of patients who think they have a cold, but it turns out they have allergies. It might be worth talking to your doctor about allergies. There are probably lifestyle changes or treatments that could reduce your symptoms.

HOW TO TACKLE THE MAZE OF BUDGET AIRLINES?

 

If you've ever purchased a ticket for a Low-Cost flight, you've probably noticed that almost every upgrade and service you want - whether it's luggage, plane meals, seat selections, etc. - will cost you a lot of extra money, and sometimes lead to high fines, to the point where the cheap and seductive price offered by these airlines will already become quite expensive when compared to a regular flight. I have, in my previous two blogs, described the problems with Budget Airlines:

Budget Airlines – Value vs. Botheration https://surajitbrainwaves.blogspot.com/2022/10/budget-airlines-value-vs-botheration.html

Budget Airlines – Are They Any Good? https://surajitbrainwaves.blogspot.com/2018/03/budget-airlinesare-they-any-good.html

In this blog I will help you identify all the important things you need to pay attention to when purchasing cheap flight tickets. This is a full Low-Cost guide to help make your next vacation free of unwanted surprises and expenses.

The important rules of Low-Cost flights

Be informed

Before ordering the ticket, log on to the airline's website and search for a tab that says "Information" or "FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions". Try to extract from these pages as many details as possible about company policies such as

·        check-in

·        seat selection

·        baggage included in the payment

This will help you to make an informed decision as to whether the price of the flight will indeed pay off after all the additions. If you did not book the flight on the official website of the airline but on an external site, chances are you will be taken to the airline's website to complete the ordering process and choose the desired upgrades. You don’t have to choose the extras you want when paying for your flight ticket, as you can usually return to the site after purchase to make any changes to your order, but note that some of the services may be reduced or closed, or become costlier as your flight date approaches.

Communication

After booking, keep an eye on any emails you receive from the airline and follow the instructions provided to avoid unnecessary or unexpected payment due to lack of attention. Know that some companies will give you coupons or points that you can use to lower your current or next flight. If you are debating whether to pay for a product or service in advance, chances are that you should “play it safe" and pay for it, lest they become costlier later.

Remote Airport landing

As I have told you in my previous two blogs, low-cost flights often land in secondary and remote airports from city centers, because airport taxes are higher at central airports. Take this into consideration and be prepared for the time and expense of arriving from a remote airport to the city center or to your hotel, and be sure you still save money when compared to a regular non- budget airline.

Time wasting flight schedule

Some Low-Cost flights offer flight times in hours that may bring you to your desired destination in the middle of the night and bring you back home early in the morning – meaning you’ll lose a day of your vacation. If you’ve purchased an intercontinental low-cost flight that includes a "connecting" flight, it is possible that the cheap and cost-effective price will be paid in full through very long waiting hours between flights.

Vacation prices

Low-cost flights are supposed to be significantly cheaper than regular flights or charter flights, but note that if this is a high demand period such as holidays or concentrated vacations, the cost of these flights may be the same as regular priced flights, or negligibly cheaper, so it is best to compare prices especially during these times.

Seat selection

If you are flying alone and don’t really care if you have a window, middle or aisle seat, you can skip to the next section. If this isn’t the case, and your seat on the plane is important to you, choosing a seat is a necessity. Some of the Low-Cost companies charge for seat selection - and each seat is prioritized: for example, a seat next to an emergency exit with a lot of legroom will cost more than a "regular" chair. By the way, if you don’t purchase a certain seat in advance, you will simply be given one at random. There are companies that charge extra only for better or more desirable seats, but even if your seat is included in the ticket price - you should make sure to book your seats through the airline's website and do so as soon as possible to make sure you sit with your family and friends on the flight. Please note that there is a possibility that if you don’t book seats in advance (either at a surcharge or at the ticket price) the airline may seat you separately. When it comes to flying with children, of course, we have to prepare in advance to prevent this situation and make sure that everyone is seated together.

Tip for a couple who want to gamble on their seating - try to order one window seat and one aisle seat. Most solo passengers won't book a middle seat, meaning you’ll most probably have the row to yourselves, but note that there is always the chance that a single passenger who didn’t book a seat in advance will be placed there by the airline.

Food

Most of the Low-Cost airlines don’t include a meal in the price of the flight ticket and therefore you’ll need to purchase the meal separately. However, even if you don't do so in advance, you probably won’t starve during the flight because the airlines want to sell you as many things on the plane as possible, including food, so the flight attendants roam around offering hot dishes, sandwiches and the like for purchase. However, if you are a strict vegetarian or a vegan you may find your choice of food missing in a Russian, Chinese or certain African airlines if you do not book in advance. The advantage of ordering a meal in advance is that in most cases you will pay less for the dish, and during the flight, your food will be served first. Keep in mind, however, that the supply of meals that will be left for passengers ordering their meal on the flight may be smaller, but in any case, don’t bet on the food being gourmet.

An important tip for those who travel to a relatively cheap destination is that the local duty-free food and restaurant stores may offer you low-cost meals and snacks, so you should consult with friends who have previously visited the destination and find out if you should eat there or before boarding. Of course, there is always the possibility of bringing food in your bag, and it’s even recommended to go to a local supermarket and buy fruit, snacks, and sandwiches and pack them for your flight However, drinks may be confiscated depending on security procedures of the local airport ot airline. It is important to remember that there are airlines that prohibit the entry of food onto the plane – so check the airline's website before attempting to do so.

In-flight Payments

You can pay for the food and duty-free products on the plane - in dollars, Euros and possibly in the local currency of your take-off and landing destinations, and on some flights by credit card even though different types of credit cards may not be respected by the airline. Please note that using a credit card outside the country involves high fees.

Luggage

Before you arrive at the airport, weigh your luggage at home, after checking the airline's website about the weight and size allowance of carry-ons, and stow away luggage. The weight of a stow-away can sometimes range between 15-20lbs, and there are companies that specify only the size of the suitcase in inches without any weight limit. Some companies don’t even allow a carry-on without an additional charge, and so you’ll have to send your luggage to be stowed and board only with a handbag.

Note that your luggage may not even be weighed if it doesn’t look heavy, but it’s best not to take the risk.  Tip: Please note that some airlines won’t allow you to board with both a carry-on and a personal handbag, so be sure to keep up with the conditions and prepare as needed. In such situations, you can put all your belongings into your carry-on, later taking out your smaller bag after you’ve settled in your seat.

Overweight baggage

If you arrived at the airport with a large suitcase but did not purchase stow away or if you exceeded the weight of your carry-on, note that this excess weight will cost you quite a bit of time when going through check-in and boarding. Also, note that many companies won’t let you be clever and move things around from one bag to another. If you are flying for a short time, try to pack all your belongings in a carry-on, and don’t exceed the permitted weight - this will allow you to avoid waiting at check-in and baggage pick up. A tip that will prevent you from unnecessary expenses is that in any case where you fear that the size and weight of your bag will go beyond what is permitted, certainly after a shopping trip abroad, you can purchase additional weight through the company's website, or during check-in.

Check-in

Check-in is the airline's way of making sure you're serious about getting on the plane, and it's another way to get you to pay a lot of money if you forget to do this simple thing in advance. The check-in process opens between one month and 48 hours prior to the flight depending on the airline and its policy and closes two to three hours before departure. The process is free, as long as it is done in advance on the company's website, and sometimes requires printing and presenting the boarding pass, which will be provided to you by the company website. Some companies allow you to check in on their mobile app without needing to print your boarding pass.

An important tip for those who want to save time is that without stow away baggage, you won’t need to go through the check-in counters, and rather you’ll go directly to the boarding gate with your boarding pass. In any case, whether you have suitcases going under the plane or only hand luggage, you must complete check-in before the option is closed - for both departure and return flights separately - and follow the airline's requirements on the site or its app regarding the need to print the ticket or boarding pass. If you don’t check-in before arriving at the airport, it is highly likely that you’ll have to pay a heavy penalty which may exceed the price of the entire flight. Another possibility is that your airline ticket will be canceled, and you won’t be reimbursed.

Cancellations and order changes

If you are forced to cancel or change the time of your Low-Cost flight, this will usually result in a charge set by the airline. The cancellation fee or the variable change depends on the cost of the ticket you paid for in advance, and the date of cancellation or change, in relation to the date of the flight. The best way to get information about this subject is to be informed in advance via your airline’s website. If you change your flight to another time that is more expensive, you‘ll probably be asked to pay the difference, and it's not definite that you’ll get a refund if the alternative flight is cheaper. If, by any chance, you are unsure about your trip, then opt for fully refundable regular flight rather than a budget flight, where tickets are usually either non-refundable or they give you back a pitiable amount.

An important tip to consider is that if you cancel or change a flight as a result of an illness, injury, or, God forbid, the death of a relative, and you have already purchased travel insurance, you may be reimbursed by the insurance company.

Before Low-Cost flights start charging for restroom use, what seems to be likely in the future, and before you book your tickets for your next vacation abroad - share your Low-Cost flight experience and your personal tips in the comments below!

SOCIAL MEDIA SCAMS AND CYBERCRIMES

 

“I am calling from the Police Department. Your parcel has been seized by Customs and we have found drugs in it”

“This is the Enforcement Directorate. Your accounts and your phones are under surveillance and we believe your business is in gross violation of GST rules”

“This is the Cyber-Police Cell. Your daughter who studies in XYZ College in Delhi has been involved in a sex scandal and we have her videos in our possession.”

All these are how the new age social media scams, cyber-frauds or cyber-crimes start. What follows is a horrible charade of cyber-arrest, presentation in front of a cyber-court, monitory fine and swindling of one’s life’s earnings. Businessmen, Doctors, Engineers, IAS officers and even solicitors have fallen prey to this new age crime.

So, how can you deal with this assault and avoid financial bankruptcy and emotional devastation? Don’t panic and stay alert. CBI, Police, Customs, ED, Judges do not arrest you on a voice call or video call. Cyber-arrest is a fraud and has no place in our Indian constitution. Report such calls to www.cybercrime.gov.in or call the Cybercrime helpline at 1930. You can also follow Cyber Dost on X, Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp.

 

Senior Citizens are easy targets

As we age, our finances become more important to secure a comfortable and independent future. Unfortunately, scammers take advantage of this vulnerability and target seniors with deceptive schemes designed to steal their hard-earned money. These scams can be incredibly sophisticated and can prey on a senior's trust or sense of urgency. The consequences of falling victim to such scams can be devastating, leaving victims with emotional distress and significant financial hardship.  To help you protect yourself and your loved ones, you need the knowledge to identify and avoid these scams.

1. The Grandparent Scam

This scam exploits a senior's love and concern for their family. Scammers often target landline phones, posing as a terrified grandchild. They can claim to be in trouble with the law, need money for bail or legal bills, or be caught up in an unexpected travel situation requiring immediate funding. The urgency of the situation is a key tactic here. Scammers will often instill a sense of desperation, asking the grandparent not to inform other family members and to move quickly to give money electronically or via prepaid gift cards. They can also use voice modification methods to sound more like an actual grandchild. This fraud takes advantage of a senior's natural desire to help their loved ones in need. However, a red flag should go up if the caller refuses to identify themselves clearly, refuses to connect the senior to the supposed parent, or insists on untraceable payment methods. Always encourage elders to verify the story directly with their child or another trusted family member before sending any money.

 

2. The Health Insurance Scam

Scammers also target seniors who are with some health insurance coverage. They may contact elders by phone, email, or in person, disguised as representatives from a health insurance company, or a government body. Their end goal is to steal personal information such as Aadhaar and PAN numbers. This information might be used to file fake medical claims or commit identity theft. Seniors should contact their current insurance provider directly to confirm the legitimacy of any unsolicited offer that requires sharing personal information or paying upfront fees for insurance services.

 

3. Tech Support Scams

Tech support scams target seniors who may be less tech-savvy yet rely heavily on computers for communication and everyday work. Scammers use scare tactics, bombarding elders with pop-up messages or phone calls claiming that their computer has a virus, serious safety flaws, or is running slowly. They coerce the senior into granting them remote access to their computer, allowing them to install malware or steal personal information. Furthermore, they may provide needless "repair services" for a hefty fee, even though the problems are fabricated. Personal and banking details on the computer can then be accessed and misused to withdraw funds.

 

4. Sweepstakes/Lottery Scams

The lure of winning a life-changing sum of money can be enticing, particularly for seniors living on a limited income. Sweepstakes and lottery scammers prey on this desire by pestering elders with unsolicited calls, letters, or even emails saying they've won a massive prize. The catch? To claim their "winnings," the victim must first pay upfront fees or taxes. These expenses are sometimes disguised as processing fees, administrative charges, or "insurance" to secure the prize. However, after sending the money, the victim never receives the winnings, and the fraudster disappears. Legitimate lotteries and sweepstakes will never ask for money to claim a prize. Seniors should never send money based on unsolicited offers, even if they appear to be legitimate.

 

Facebook / Instagram / WhatsApp / Telegram / X Scams

It seems like every time you log onto Facebook, another scam rears its ugly head. Turns out, it's not just you. Over 60% of users on the platform report running into scams every single week – more than any other social media giant. The truth is, whether we're double-tapping on Instagram, scrolling through TikToks, which is now banned in India, or catching up on X (the platform formerly known as Twitter), social media has become a constant companion, and scammers have taken notice. Scam ads are more prevalent than ever, lurking in the corners of our feeds, waiting to trick unsuspecting users. These ads often promise too-good-to-be-true deals, offer fake products, or lead you to shady websites, all designed to steal your personal information or money.  Knowing how to spot scam ads and protect yourself can make all the difference. Here’s how you can protect yourself on social media and stay one step ahead of the scammers.

 

1. Too-good-to-be-true offers

These ads promise amazing deals that seem unreal. You might see a luxury watch for 90% off or a free vacation, but if it sounds too fantastic, it probably is! Scammers lure you in with these offers to grab your attention and some of your cash. Always research any deal you come across that’s way below market price. If it's unbelievable, it’s worth putting on your “scam radar.”

 

2. Fake celebrity endorsements

Scammers love using images of celebrities to make their ads more credible. They might claim a famous person is endorsing a product or offering a giveaway. AI has made it very easy to use a celebrity’s image, video and voice to convince you to make very profitable investments. Industry barons like Narayan Murthy, Media celebs like Palki Sharma, Stock market gurus like Ashish Kacholia are always endorsing fantastic stocks which you can buy for pittance today and be a multi-millionaire in the next two years! Check if the celebrity has actually made such a post or if it’s just a stolen photo. Legitimate endorsements usually link back to official accounts.

 

3. Phony giveaways

“Congratulations, you’ve won!” Sound familiar? Ads that claim you’ve won something, or are giving away high-end items for free, often lead to phishing sites. They usually ask for personal information like your address or credit card details in exchange for your “prize.” Legit giveaways won’t require sensitive info upfront, so always be cautious.

 

4. Subscription traps

These ads lure you in with a free trial or a seemingly low-cost subscription. After signing up, you may find yourself unknowingly locked into expensive monthly payments. Always read the fine print before committing to a trial. If you notice confusing terms or hidden fees, it’s a red flag. Legitimate companies will make their subscription terms clear, so always ensure you know what you’re signing up for!

 

5. Phishing links

Phishing scams are rampant on social media. You might receive a message with a link that claims you’ve won something or need to verify your account. Or you might come across an advertizement claiming the same on some social media site. Clicking on such links can lead to malicious websites designed to steal your personal information. Always be cautious about clicking on unknown links, especially if they come from unfamiliar accounts. When in doubt, go straight to the official site instead of following the link. Remember Maruti, Tata Motors, Hyundai or Honda do not give away free cars to celebrate their sales landmarks!

 

6. Impersonation ads

These ads mimic legitimate businesses, with fake websites or social media pages that appear to be genuine. They often target well-known brands, making it hard to tell the difference. Before clicking or buying, make sure you’re dealing with the official account by looking for verified badges or searching for the company directly.

 

7. Romance scams

These are particularly heart-wrenching. Scammers create fake profiles to build romantic relationships, only to eventually ask for money or personal information. They might claim they need funds for travel, medical bills, or other emergencies. Be cautious of new connections who quickly express deep feelings and avoid sharing financial details. What is unfortunate is that seniors often fall prey to such scams as they are lonely and feel that an affair in the evening of their life won’t harm, but it almost always does.

 

8. Social media quizzes

Ever come across a fun quiz that promises to reveal something about your personality? While many are harmless, some are designed to gather your personal information. Scammers may use these quizzes to collect data for phishing or identity theft. If a quiz requires you to provide sensitive info, like your phone number or email, it’s best to skip it. Stick to reputable sources and always be cautious about what info you share online! Always quiz the intention of the quiz-maker and why are they keen to help you to win the contest.

 

9. Investment/crypto scams

With the rise of crypto-currency, investment scams have flourished. Advertisements may promise guaranteed returns or insider strategies that promise to double your investment overnight. Often, these scams are too good to be true and lead to financial loss. Always conduct thorough research before investing in any scheme. Remember, legitimate investments won’t promise quick returns and will involve inherent risks. Don’t let the promise of quick riches push you into making hasty decisions!

Stock market unsolicited tips are invariably fraud. If I know that stock ABC is going to fetch me a 200% profit in the next six months why will I advertize it to the world? Rakesh Jhunjhunwala has died long back but he is still giving stock advice on the internet and in Facebook!

 

10. Impersonating established entities

It has been observed that fake/deceptive/fraudulent WhatsApp/Telegram groups/accounts have been created impersonating the Franklin Templeton or Blackrock brand names. These groups are illegally using their logo and name to deceive innocent individuals. Without obtaining any authorization from the regulator to provide investment advice, they recommend securities for investment, promise high returns on such investments, aiming to swindle funds into unfamiliar bank accounts. One must always verify the authenticity of these accounts by going straight to the company site.

 

What to do when you encounter a scam advertisements on social media 

If you come across a scam advert, don’t panic. Here’s what you should do:

1. Don’t click: First and foremost, resist the urge to click on the ad. Even a quick tap can lead to trouble, like downloading malware or being redirected to a phishing site.

2. Report it: Most social media platforms have options to report suspicious ads. Look for the "Report" or "Flag" button, usually found near the ad. Select the appropriate reason, like "Scam" or "Phishing."

3. Block the advertiser: If you can identify the advertiser, block them to prevent seeing more of their content. This helps keep your feed clean and reduces the risk of exposure.

4. Warn others: Share your experience with friends and family. A quick message or post can help them avoid the same scam. Awareness is key to staying safe.

5. Check your accounts: If you think you might have fallen for the scam, check your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized transactions. Consider changing your passwords and enabling two-factor authentication for added security.

 

The moral of the story is that money has to be earned by hard work and there is no short-cut to prosperity. Even the fraudsters are working hard to con you. So be alert, don’t panic and don’t share your personal details, Aadhaar, PAN and insurance details with anyone. Don’t be greedy and don’t be naïve, no one will, out of the goodness of one’s heart, unearth a fortune for you, you will have to earn it by the old fashioned way. Cyber-crimes must not be suffered in silence and solitude but immediately reported to the police and there is no provision of Cyber Arrest in our constitution. The Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act) has stringent penalties for cyber-crime- imprisonment for 3 years or fine up to Rs. 500,000 or both. You can help the government by reporting such crimes by ringing the helpline 1930 or leaving your complain on www.cybercrime.gov.in

Six out of 10 individuals receive at least three spam calls a day and nine out of ten receive at least one spam text message. Telephone service operators are now launching an AI driven spam detection solution and one operator, Airtel, has flagged 1.12 crore (11.2 million) phone calls as spam and alerted their U.P based customers. Other operators will soon follow. Cybercriminals however will always remain a step ahead and it is the end user who has to become smart and avoid these social media and cyber-fraud quicksand. 

PARENTING – ONE AIM BUT MANY WAYS

Parenting is considered the most important job in the world! Parents anchor children's lives and lay the foundations of relationships, attitudes, and behaviour patterns. How carefully they navigate through the rough waters of childhood and adolescence determines how smoothly the child will thrive in adulthood. The way a child is cared for and nurtured has a significant impact on their general well-being. Parents should listen to their children, show them affection, and discipline them constructively.

Our children are now grown up adults and though we enjoyed their childhood to the maximum, only photographs and videos are now left in our empty nest to remind us of those good days gone by! In one of my previous blogs I told you about a patient of mine, who is a child psychologist and who offered me some golden nuggets about child psychology. If you missed it then here it is for you: https://surajitbrainwaves.blogspot.com/2024/06/child-psychology-i-never-knew.html

This blog is a result of a very long and leisurely evening spent with her after her surgery, and after listening to her views, I am not really sure what type of a parent we were!

 

Futility of scolding

The most important thing for a parent is their relationship with their children. It is that pause one takes before reacting and the thought they put into treating their child with compassion and empathy. Scolding might take the heat off your own head, but the impact it will have on the young impressionable mind is lifelong. Scolding also underlines that the parent has limited control over his/her emotions, and they use verbal aggression to deal with this disrupted emotional state. So, in a way, the parent is modelling verbal aggression to deal with crises. As a parent, you may not like to set up such a model for your child to follow.

Positive parenting can boost a child's self-esteem as they are encouraged to have open conversations about their thoughts, beliefs, and feelings. Particular focus should be given to the first few years of a child's life, as during this time, a child's brain develops at an extraordinary rate. This provides an exceptional opportunity to shape their ability to learn. Storytelling, discussions about day-to-day activities, reading together or walking through a garden are all learning activities.

 

Encourage talent, accept limitations, and prepare for the world

Part of good parenting is allowing the child to develop their personality through play. Playing, along with being a fun activity, improves children and adolescents' cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being. Parents have to encourage their talents while also accepting their limitations. It is extremely useful to have open conversations around pertinent questions like: What is it that they are most afraid of? Do they feel under-confident? Has anyone troubled them recently? Make them feel appreciated, as though their thoughts and opinions matter because they do. Teaching about good touch and bad touch, and how to deal with the latter is an absolute must. Children who do not receive adequate care and protection are among the most vulnerable people in the world. 

 

Types of parenting

There is no "100% correct" way when it comes to parenting, and the way you will educate your children will be influenced mainly by the way you yourself were educated, the way you observe other parents, and of course your personal background.   Despite all this, there are several common parenting styles, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. If you know how to align yourself with the parenting style that suits you, it will be much easier for you to be consistent in the education you give your children.

 

1. Authoritative Parenting

Many child development experts argue that this parenting style is the most effective. Characteristics of such parents include:

·        Willing to establish clear and consistent rules and boundaries

·        Having high expectations for their children

·        Knowing how to listen well to their children

·        Knowing how to give positive feedback and doing so regularly

Advantages and Disadvantages

Authoritative parents provide their children with a loving and supportive environment to grow in, and as a result, children of such parents suffer less from mental health issues and have higher self-esteem than children raised under other parenting styles. Additionally, children of such parents are healthier and are less likely to use drugs and alcohol and be less violent.   However, this style requires a lot of patience and rules, which can be difficult for both parents and children. Thus rules like ‘no play after sunset’, ‘dinner at 8 and bed at 9’ need to be implemented with patient and logical explanation.

 

2. Authoritarian Parenting

It may sound the same as "authoritative parent," but it is not. For authoritarian parents, it is important that children do everything necessary to succeed so that they can be the best version of themselves. Such parents:

·        Set clear and rigid rules and expect their children to follow them

·        Punish – sometimes severely - "Clean your room or I'll throw away your toys,"

·        Have high expectations for their children and do not accept failure –“If your grades are not good you will be punished”

·        Do not encourage open communication - "Because I said so!" without entering into a discussion on the matter

Advantages and Disadvantages

It's important to remember that not every child will grow up to be an Olympic athelete/swimmer or the next great genius Albert Einstein, and this parenting style has quite a few disadvantages, despite its excellent intentions. Children of authoritarian parents do not see their parents as legitimate authority figures, and are more likely to engage in negative behaviors such as smoking, skipping school, and drinking alcohol, compared to children raised under other parenting styles.   They also are more likely to suffer from depression, and though this style aims for success, their grades are not necessarily higher than those of their peers.

 

3. Attachment Parenting

This approach puts the child at the center and creates a protected and safe environment for them. Such parents have the following characteristics:

·        Tend to maintain a lot of physical contact with their children – holding hands, carrying them, and even sleeping with them in the same bed.

·        Respond to every cry for help from the child without hesitation – soothing, comforting, and supporting to provide a warm, loving, and safe environment.

Advantages and Disadvantages

These children grow up to be more independent, mentally resilient, less stressed, more empathetic, and have greater control over their emotions. However, such parents may themselves suffer from certain disadvantages, such as not dedicating time to themselves and their partners. The child too at times becomes a reassurance seeker, which may be an issue in later life.

 

4. Permissive Parenting

Parents who advocate for this parenting style are loving and warm. Unlike other parents, they let their children set the rules, and besides that, they also have the following characteristics:

·        Do not advocate for setting many rules “Don’t want to go to school, don’t go.”

·        Do not set clear boundaries – curfew hours, permissible drinks, smoking

·        Do not always try to control their children's behavior

·        Allow their children to make their own decisions

Advantages and Disadvantages

Permissive parents provide their children with a lot of love. Although most experts do not recommend this parenting style, children raised under it often become independent individuals who know how to make their own decisions and appreciate their parents for raising them to reach such a state.   However, these children experience much more stress in their studies, are be more often victims of bullying, and surprisingly - the bullies tend to be children of authoritative parents. As they are setting the rules they often suffer childhood obesity.

 

5. Free-Range Parenting

This parenting style allows children to explore the world, take risks, and make mistakes, but under the guidance of the parents. Before parents loosen the reins, they give children rules and warn them of the consequences of their actions. This allows them to provide their children with:

·        A sense of responsibility

·        Freedom - let your 3-year-old play alone in the park while you watch from a distance.

·        Control over their lives - allow your child to walk to a friend's house a few blocks away, but before he leaves your apartment, you explain that he should not talk to strangers and what he should do if he gets lost.

Advantages and Disadvantages

When children are given the responsibility for their actions, they grow up to be less depressed and anxious, and learn to rely more on their decisions. However, during childhood, they may be physically harmed, although the risk is no greater than that of other children.

 

6. Helicopter Parenting

Such parents control every detail of their children's lives, from the friends they hang out with, the food they eat, to how they spend their free time. The characteristics of such parents are:

·        Trying to control every situation in the child's life

·        Not trusting their children's ability to handle certain situations properly

·        Always offering guidance to their children

·        Trying to solve problems for their children instead of letting them handle them

Advantages and Disadvantages

Experts argue against helicopter parenting because it makes children dependent on their parents. But these children later are  much less likely to drink alcohol, engage in risky sexual behavior, or spend time with people who do so.   However, children of helicopter parents tend to have lower self-esteem, higher levels of anxiety and depression in adulthood, suffer from a fear of failure, and do not handle problem-solving well in their lives.

 

7. Neglectful / Uninvolved Parenting

Of course, no parent wants to be neglectful or uninvolved in their children's lives, but sometimes it's hard to prevent it, for example, if the parent works two jobs or in a different city and for some reason cannot communicate with the children. Such parents typically:

·        Do not have special feelings for their children – leave the child locked in a car while shopping.

·        Do not attend to their children's physical and emotional needs, except for their basic needs - no idea if the child has done their homework or not, and it doesn't really interest the parent

·        Do not respond quickly to their children

·        Are absent from their children's lives physically or emotionally

·        May hit their children

Advantages and Disadvantages

There is no documentation of advantages to this parenting style, but children raised under it tend to be better at relying on themselves, and have higher mental resilience. However, no child deserves to grow up in such an environment, and the disadvantages are many. These children struggle with emotional control, have a tendency toward depression, have difficulty forming and maintaining relationships, and are more anti-social and anxious.

 

To conclude:

There are many parenting styles, and chances are you won't be a parent of just one style, but you'll combine several styles together, and that's okay. Every parent is unique, and so is every child, and you are the ones who know your children best. According to most studies, children grow up best when parents walk the fine line between giving a lot of attention and trying to control them. Either way, you need to try different methods and find out what works best with your children and for you.