1.8.2026 Technology Class: QR Codes and Password Security

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QR Code Scanning and Saving

  • Class began with hands-on training on how to scan QR codes using smartphones
  • On iPhone, open the regular camera app and hover over the QR code - it will automatically detect it
  • A banner or icon will appear to tap and open the website in Safari
  • To save the website to home screen: tap the arrow pointing up (or three dots), then select "Add to Home Screen"
  • Class practiced scanning the SFCT website QR code (sfct.org)

Creating QR Codes

  • In Chrome browser, navigate to the desired website, tap the three dots menu, then select "Create QR Code"
  • QR codes provide an easy way to share website links without requiring manual typing
  • When saving pages, always add a title so screenshots are easily identifiable

Class Schedule and Resources

  • Full class schedule available at sfct.org under "SFT Class Schedule" section
  • First and second Thursdays focus on computer topics, third Thursday on other technology
  • This month's focus: passwords, safety and security
  • Meeting notes from automated note taker will be included on the website

CES 2025 (Consumer Electronics Show) Highlights

Autonomous Vehicles (Waymo) Discussion

  • Waymo autonomous taxis currently operating in San Francisco
  • Most participants found them safe and efficient once past initial concerns
  • Waymos have emergency button to call central call center for assistance
  • Can request different drop-off locations or use "let me off now" button
  • Waymos cannot enter private property like the building's porte-cochère
  • Tesla robotaxis will be launching in San Francisco this year
  • Instructor recommended trying Waymo with a friend on a short trip
  • Funny Video - https://youtu.be/OJAoc8gFV4g?si=sSTbPi8QKCgrpxyF

Password Managers Overview

  • Two primary recommended password managers: Apple Passwords and Google Password Manager
  • Apple Passwords best for those with Apple devices (iPhone, Mac)
  • Google Password Manager best for Android users or those with Gmail
  • Third-party options like Bitwarden and Dashlane also available but require installation on all devices
  • Built-in options (Apple/Google) already installed and don't require additional setup

Accessing Password Managers

  • On Mac: Use Spotlight search, type "passwords," open the app with key icon
  • On iPhone: Access through Settings or use Face ID/Touch ID to unlock
  • Password managers are always locked and require biometric authentication or passcode
  • Google password manager accessible through Chrome browser
  • Apple Passwords can now be downloaded as an extension for PC and other browsers

Using Password Managers

  • Password managers suggest strong, complex passwords that are difficult to remember
  • Users can still create their own passwords instead of using generated ones
  • Password managers serve as a database to save and organize passwords
  • To add new password: tap plus sign or "Add" button, enter website, username, and password
  • Can edit or delete existing passwords as needed

Password Management Best Practices

  • Beginning of year is good time to clean up old passwords
  • Check last used date - passwords from years ago may no longer be needed
  • Remove duplicate entries for same websites
  • If website shows security warning ("This connection is not private"), consider deleting that saved password
  • Avoid keeping thick books of undated passwords from multiple years
  • Too many failed password attempts will lock accounts

Password Security Warnings

  • Password managers will flag compromised passwords
  • Don't need to change all compromised passwords immediately
  • Prioritize changing passwords for important accounts (banks, etc.) over less critical ones (news sites)
  • Banks protect accounts with two-factor authentication even if password is compromised

Browser and Password Manager Integration

  • Safari integrates with Apple Passwords automatically
  • Chrome integrates with Google Password Manager
  • For other browsers (Firefox, Edge), download iCloud Passwords extension
  • When logging into websites, password manager will detect and offer to fill in saved credentials
  • May show multiple saved passwords for same site - indicates need to clean up duplicates

Upcoming Topics

  • Next session will cover two-factor authentication (2FA)
  • Will demonstrate how to receive verification codes on phone more easily
  • Will show how to generate authentication codes within Apple Passwords (six-digit codes that change every 30 seconds)
  • Discussion of passkeys - biometric authentication using fingerprint or face recognition
  • Passkeys work well on phones but can be challenging on computers without built-in biometrics

Action Items

  • [ ] Participants to practice scanning QR codes and saving websites to home screen
  • [ ] Participants to try Waymo with a friend on a short trip
  • [ ] Participants to clean up password managers and remove old/duplicate passwords
  • [ ] Participants to research CES 2025 products independently

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