Author of "Wired in a Week: How AOL Can Improve Your Life in 10 Minutes a Day"

December 28, 2000

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Hats: When do you think AOL's IM will be ready to comply with the regulation that all instant messengers work together?

Regina Lewis: We're working on that to ensure that when it does happen that it's a positive experience.

Daisy: How do I go about bypassing AOL's browser and using MS Explorer?

Regina Lewis: AOL is compatible with MS Explorer. You have the choice. Netscape also has a good browser.

Philly: What daily tasks can the Internet help me do more efficiently?

Regina Lewis: Certainly correspondence via e-mail and instant messaging. Checking news headlines. I start almost every day by reading the AOL welcome screen. So then I feel 'connected'. Also, if you own stock, getting stock quotes is very popular. AOL is currently the world's largest stock-quoting vehicle.

Horse: How can I avoid the problems that incur when sharing photos via e-mail with non-AOL users?

Regina Lewis: AOL "You've Got Pictures" allows you to share with both AOL members and non-members. The new "You've Got Pictures" allows the photo to actually pop up in the e-mail, and you can use any camera. You don't have to have a digital camera.

Smack: I'm concerned about the security of getting online. Is it dangerous to put my information out there? And how can I protect myself?

Regina Lewis: Regarding security, the key is to start with a reputable online service. When shopping, use a credit card. Never give your credit card via e-mail or instant message. If someone asks you for your credit card, it is almost always solicitation. Use common sense. Overall, if you start with a reputable service like AOL and CompuServe, you should be in good shape. Also, be discrete in chat rooms. Don't give out personal information. Even consider using a separate screen name just for chat.

Miss Q: Is AIM really all that much 'safer' than ICQ, another IM program from AOL?

Regina Lewis: The organic nature of ICQ makes it somewhat of a different animal. While they work the same way, you should employ the same judgment when using ICQ regarding what you reveal via instant messaging.

Sigma Girl: Instant messaging seems to be a popular thing. How can I get started, and how can it help me?

Regina Lewis: Instant messaging is 'the' most popular thing, and the fastest-growing category online. If you're on AOL, start by building a Buddy List. If you're not on AOL, go to www.aol.com and download AIM.

Zam: Do you have to be a technical whiz to use the Internet?

Regina Lewis: No. I think if you had to be, a lot of us would be in trouble. (smile) The key, like so many things, is getting started and learning a little bit more each day. So, start exploring and keep exploring, and you'll be a little bit more 'wired' each day.

Santan: How did you decide what to put in your book and what not to put in?

Regina Lewis: Great question! The book was based on a lot of research. Our company service representatives field millions of phone calls from people looking for help, and I talk with people when I travel throughout the country. If you listen hard enough, the book practically writes itself. So we've tried to address the questions people ask most and the areas that are most popular online, based on the research we have.

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