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This is a guide on how to apply for an official search (CR12) on the eCitizen portal in Kenya.

What is a CR12 Document?

A CR12 is an official document issued by the Registrar of Companies in Kenya. It provides details about the ownership and directorship of a company, including:

1. List of Directors and Shareholders: It lists all the current directors and shareholders of the company. It also shows their respective shareholding proportions.
2. Company Status: The CR12 indicates whether the company is active, dormant, or in the process of being dissolved.
3. Registered Office: The document may also include the company’s registered office address.
4. History of Changes: Sometimes, the CR12 may reflect changes in directorship or shareholding that have occurred over time.

Purpose of CR12

The CR12 is often required for various purposes, such as:

• Legal Transactions: It is commonly requested in legal transactions, such as the transfer of shares, property transactions, and court cases.
• Banking and Finance: Banks may require a CR12 when opening a business account or providing loans to a company.
• Government Tenders: Companies applying for government tenders may need to provide a CR12 as proof of their legal status and ownership structure.
• Verification: It serves as a means of verifying the legal standing and current ownership of a company.

The CR12 is an important document that ensures transparency and helps verify a company’s legitimacy and ownership details.

To apply CR12, follow these steps:

Step 1: Access the eCitizen Portal

• Go to the eCitizen portal using your web browser.
• Log in with your credentials. If you don’t have an account, you need to create one by signing up.

Step 2: Navigate to the Business Registration Service

• Once logged in, click on the “Business Registration Service (BRS)” icon on the dashboard.
• If you don’t see it, you can search for “Business Registration Service” using the search bar.

Step 3: Start the Official Search Application

• In the Business Registration Service section, look for the section “My Applications”.
• Click on “Make Application”.

Step 4: Provide Company Details

• Enter the company registration number or name in the search box provided.
• Select your company from the list of suggestions that appear.

Step 5: Fill in the Application Form

• Complete the application form by filling in the required details such as postal address, postal code, email and phone number.
• Review your application to ensure all information is correct.

Step 6: Pay the Applicable Fees

• Proceed to payment. The system will redirect you to the payment options. At the moment, CR12 charges are Kes 650.
• Choose your preferred payment method (e.g., M-Pesa, debit/credit card, or bank transfer).
• Complete the payment.

Step 7: Submit the Application

• After payment, submit your application.
• In most cases, the CR12 certificate is produced immediately after payment.

Step 9: Download the CR12

• Under your applications, find the one for the CR12 search and download the document.

Ensure you have all the necessary details and documents before starting the process to avoid delays. The Official Search is a computer-generated certificate. Only Linked and Verified companies will generate an automated official search. The Official Search is addressed to the Individual or Business logged in and making the application.

Introduction:

Two-Factor Authentication? What the hell is that? In an age where cyber threats are increasingly sophisticated, securing your online accounts has never been more crucial. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security, making it significantly harder for unauthorized users to access your information. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of setting up 2FA and provide best practices to ensure your accounts are as secure as possible.

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Section 1: Understanding Two-Factor Authentication

What is 2FA?

Two-Factor Authentication is a security process in which users provide two different authentication factors to verify themselves. This method ensures better protection than single-factor authentication, which relies on just a password.

Why is it Important?

Passwords can be stolen, guessed, or hacked. By adding a second layer of verification, 2FA makes it much more difficult for attackers to gain access to your accounts. Even if someone knows your password, they would still need the second factor to log in.

Different Types of 2FA Methods

1. SMS-Based 2FA:
   • A code is sent to your mobile phone via SMS.
2. Authenticator Apps:
   • Apps like Google Authenticator or Authy generate time-based codes.
3. Hardware Tokens:
   • Physical devices like YubiKey that generate codes or authenticate via USB.
4. Biometric Verification:
   • Uses fingerprint or facial recognition.

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Section 2: Setting Up Two-Factor Authentication

Step 1: Choosing the Right 2FA Method

Comparison of Different 2FA Methods:

• SMS-Based 2FA:
  • Pros: Easy to use, no additional app required.
  • Cons: Can be intercepted via SIM swapping.
• Authenticator Apps:
  • Pros: More secure than SMS, free apps available.
  • Cons: Requires installing an app and initial setup.
• Hardware Tokens:
  • Pros: Extremely secure, no internet connection needed.
  • Cons: Costs money, needs to be carried around.
• Biometric Verification:
  • Pros: Convenient, hard to replicate.
  • Cons: Requires compatible hardware, privacy concerns.

Recommendations: For the best balance of security and convenience, authenticator apps are highly recommended. They provide strong security without the cost of hardware tokens.

Step 2: Setting Up 2FA on Popular Platforms

For Google Accounts:

1. Log in to your Google account.
   • Go to Google Account.
2. Navigate to Security settings.
   • In the left-hand menu, select “Security.”
3. Click on 2-Step Verification and follow the prompts.
   • Click “Get Started” and log in again for verification.
4. Choose your preferred 2FA method.
   • Select “Authenticator app” for better security.
   • Scan the QR code with your authenticator app and enter the code generated.

And for Facebook:

1. Go to Security and Login Settings.
   • Click the drop-down arrow at the top-right corner, then “Settings & Privacy” > “Settings.”
   • Navigate to “Security and Login.”
2. Scroll down to Use two-factor authentication and click Edit.
   • Click “Get Started.”
3. Choose your security method and follow the instructions.
   • You can choose between text message or an authenticator app.

For Twitter:

1. Go to Account settings.
   • Click on your profile icon and select “Settings and privacy.”
2. Navigate to Security and account access.
   • Click “Security” > “Two-factor authentication.”
3. Choose your 2FA method.
   • Select “Authentication app” and follow the setup instructions.

How to set Two-Factor Authentication For Other Platforms:

• LinkedIn:
  • Settings > Sign-in & security > Two-step verification.
• Instagram:
  • Profile > Settings > Security > Two-Factor Authentication.
• Amazon:
  • Your Account > Login & security > Two-Step Verification (2SV) Settings.

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Section 3: Best Practices for Using 2FA

1. Keep Backup Codes in a Secure Place:
   • Write down backup codes provided during the 2FA setup and store them securely.
2. Regularly Update Your Recovery Options:
   • Ensure your recovery email and phone number are up-to-date.
3. Be Cautious of Phishing Attempts:
   • Never enter your 2FA code on websites that you didn’t intend to log in to.
   • Verify the authenticity of the website URL before entering credentials.

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Section 4: Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Lost Access to 2FA Method:
   • Use backup codes to log in and update your 2FA settings.
   • Contact the service provider’s support for account recovery.
2. Updating Your 2FA Method if You Change Devices:
   • Disable 2FA on the old device and set it up again on the new device.
   • Use the authenticator app’s account transfer feature if available.

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Conclusion:

Enhancing your online security with Two-Factor Authentication is a crucial step in protecting your digital life. By following the detailed instructions in this guide, you can secure your accounts effectively and stay one step ahead of cyber threats.

Call to Action:

Start securing your accounts today by setting up 2FA. For more tech tips and security advice, subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.

In email services, Gmail stands tall as one of the most popular and feature-rich platforms. While many users are familiar with the basics of sending and receiving emails, Gmail offers many lesser-known features that can significantly enhance your email management and productivity. In this blog post, we will delve into 10 Gmail Hidden Features that you might not be aware of.

1. Schedule Emails for the Perfect Timing

Have you ever wanted to compose an email but send it at a later, more convenient time? Gmail allows you to schedule emails effortlessly. When composing a message, click on the small arrow next to the “Send” button and choose the date and time you want your email to be dispatched. This is among the very useful Gmail hidden features that can make your work easy.

2. Undo Send – A Second Chance for Mistakes

Have you ever hit the send button only to realize you made a mistake? Gmail’s “Undo Send” feature gives you a brief window to retract your sent email. Head to your Gmail settings, enable this feature and set the cancellation period (usually 5-30 seconds) to grant yourself a second chance after sending an email.

3. Multiple Inboxes for Better Organization

Take control of your inbox by enabling Gmail’s Multiple Inboxes feature. This allows you to divide your inbox into multiple panes, each displaying emails based on specific categories or labels.

How to Create Multiple Inboxes

• On your computer, go to Gmail.
• At the top right, click Settings.
• Next to “Inbox type,” select Multiple inboxes.
• To change multiple inbox settings, click Customize.
• Enter the search criteria you want to add for each section.
• To search for starred emails, use: is:starred.
• When you search a person’s email address, the results in that section will also show emails from their alias. To limit the search to only the original email, the search should be enclosed in double-quotes. Example: “from:john.doe@gmail.com”.
• When you search “from:email”, the results will also return Drive sharing notification emails from when that person shared a file with you.
• Under “Section name,” enter a name for the section.
• Next to “Maximum page size,” enter the number of emails you want to view in the section.
• Next to “Multiple Inbox position,” choose where you want to place the sections.
• At the bottom, click Save Changes.

4. Smart Compose – Your Intelligent Email Assistant

Gmail’s Smart Compose feature suggests auto-completions as you type, making email composition faster and more efficient. Enable Smart Compose in the “General” tab of your Gmail settings and let Gmail help you compose emails with ease.

5. Create Email Aliases for Easy Filtering

To keep your inbox organized, create email aliases by adding a “+alias” to your email address. For instance, use your.email+newsletter@gmail.com when signing up for newsletters. You can then set up filters to sort emails based on these aliases.

One useful trick involving temporary aliases is to create filters that put emails sent to one email address, such as, “johndoe+@gmail.com,” in a folder other than your inbox. This way, you can prevent your inbox from buckling under the weight of too many promotional emails.

How to Create Gmail Email Aliases for Easy Filtering

You can make use of either of the two options

1. Plus Symbol (+)
2. Dots (.)

Plus Symbol (+):

Gmail ignores everything after the plus sign-in your email address. For example, if your email is example@gmail.com, emails sent to example+alias@gmail.com will still be delivered to your primary inbox.

Example:

• Primary Email: example@gmail.com
• Alias: example+shopping@gmail.com
• Alias: example+work@gmail.com

Dots (.) Option

Gmail doesn’t recognize dots in email addresses. Therefore, example@gmail.com is the same as e.x.a.m.p.l.e@gmail.com.

Example:

• Primary Email: example@gmail.com
• Alias: e.x.a.m.p.l.e@gmail.com
• Alias: ex.ample@gmail.com

With these techniques, you can easily filter emails using Gmail’s filters and labels. For instance, you can create filters that automatically label and archive emails based on the alias used. Here’s how you can set up filters:

How to Create a Filter:

• Click on the gear icon in the upper-right corner of Gmail and select “See all settings.”
• Go to the “Filters and Blocked Addresses” tab.
• Click on “Create a new filter.”
• Specify Filter Criteria:
• In the “To” field, enter your alias (e.g., example+shopping@gmail.com).
• Click on “Create filter.”
• Apply Actions:
• Choose actions like “Skip the Inbox,” “Apply the label,” or “Mark as read.”
• Create a new label for the alias (e.g., “Shopping” or “Work”).
• Create Filter:
• Click on “Create filter.”

Repeat this process for each alias you want to filter. This way, emails sent to specific aliases will be automatically sorted into their respective labels, making it easier for you to manage your inbox.

6. Right-Click for Quick Actions

Save time by right-clicking on emails in your inbox to reveal a quick menu with actions such as archiving, marking as unread, or deleting. This shortcut can streamline your email management process compared to using the toolbar.

7. Master the Art of Search with Advanced Operators

Gmail supports powerful search operators to refine your search queries. For instance, use “filename:” to search for attachments or “in:inbox” to narrow down your search to the inbox only. Mastering these operators can help you find what you need more efficiently.

8. Offline Mode – Access Your Emails Anywhere

Gmail’s Offline Mode allows you to access your emails without an internet connection. Enable this feature in settings, and Gmail will synchronize your emails for offline access. Ideal for travellers or those with intermittent internet connectivity.

9. Customize Swipe Actions on Mobile

For mobile users, Gmail offers the ability to customize swipe actions. Whether you want to archive, delete, or mark as read with a simple swipe gesture, you can tailor these actions to suit your preferences.

10. Efficiency Boost with Keyboard Shortcuts

Navigate Gmail like a pro by using computer keyboard shortcuts. Enable this feature in the “General” tab of your settings and familiarize yourself with shortcuts for tasks like composing, archiving, and navigating between emails. It’s a surefire way to boost your efficiency.

In conclusion, Gmail goes beyond being a simple email platform, offering a range of features designed to make your email experience seamless and efficient. By exploring and utilizing these lesser-known Gmail hidden features, you can transform the way you manage your emails, saving time and increasing productivity. Unlock the full potential of Gmail and elevate your email game today.

This is a guide on how to book for Canada biometrics in Kenya. The process involves some specific steps to be followed. Canada requires certain visa applicants to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photographs).

Before you book for Canada Biometrics in Kenya however, make sure you have filed the visa application forms and paid any necessary visa fees. I have provided a complete guide on how to apply for a Canadian Visa and make payment.

Steps to Follow to Book for Canada Biometrics in Kenya

Here are the steps to book a biometrics appointment for a Canadian visa application from Kenya. But first, retrieve your Biometric Instruction Letter from the IRCC website. You will use it to book for Canada Biometrics in Kenya

Log in to the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website to access your Biometric Instruction Letter. This is in case you have applied for a Canadian visa and have been requested to provide biometrics. Here are the general steps:

1. Visit the IRCC Website: Go to the official IRCC website at https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship.html.
2. Log in to Your Account, the one you used for the main visa application.
3. Access Your Application: Once you’ve logged in, you should be able to access your visa application. Click on the section indicating that you have a new message.
4. The full application status will open. Read through the various stages and you will encounter an area saying that your biometrics are required.
5. Below that section is your Biometrics Instruction Letter. Download and print the letter as you will need it during the appointment date. The letter contains important details such as your IRCC Number, the deadline for completing your biometrics and the location of the Visa Application Centre (VAC) where you need to go.

Access VFS Global to Book for Canada Biometrics in Kenya

VFS Global is one of the service providers used by Canada to facilitate the biometrics collection process for visa applicants. Here are the general steps to follow to access VFS Global and book a biometrics appointment for Canada from Kenya.

1. Visit the VFS Global Website: Click on visas, eVisas and Permits tab. Select the country you are applying from and the one you are visiting. Click on take me to the website.
2. Select the option of booking an appointment.
3. Select your preferred method of booking your appointment and click View More.

There are Five Main Methods you can use to book Your Canada Biometrics

1. Online – The link will redirect you to an Appointment Login screen which enables you to: 

• Schedule an appointment
• Re-schedule an appointment
• Cancel an appointment

You’ll have to follow the instructions mentioned on the page to create your own login credentials and schedule an appointment.

2. Telephone – If you wish to schedule an appointment via phone, you can do so by calling the helpline number 0800720214. A contact centre agent will be available to assist you in scheduling, rescheduling, or cancelling an appointment.

3. Email – If you wish to schedule an appointment via email, you can do so by using the web form.

4. Web Chat – If you wish to schedule an appointment, you can do so by clicking the Chat Now link. A contact centre agent will be available to assist you in scheduling, rescheduling or cancelling an appointment.

6. In Person – You can walk into the Canada Visa Application Centre during stipulated business hours to request this service and also schedule an appointment using the self-service method.

How to Book for Canada Biometrics in Kenya Using Online Option

1. Click on the View More option to access the online booking option.
2. Click on Create Account. Remember to activate your account using a link that will be sent to your email.
3. Log into the VFS site and select the visa centre you wish to attend.
4. Add the applicant(s) before proceeding to book your desired date of Biometrics for your Canadian Visa.

What you need to bring with you during the appointment:

When you present yourself at the biometric collection service point of your choice, you must bring the following:

• a copy of the Biometric Instruction Letter, and
• the passport or travel document that you referenced in your application.

A Note About Emergency Biometric Appointments:

The criteria for an emergency biometric appointment are as follows:

• Death of an immediate family member residing in Canada
• Critically ill immediate family member residing in Canada

An immediate family member is defined as a

• spouse or common-law partner
• dependent child
• dependent child of a dependent child
• parent or step-parent
• guardian or tutor

Applicants requesting emergency appointments for the purpose of biometric collection must provide proof of emergency (any one of the following) at the time of attending an appointment at the VAC

• Death/Medical Certificate
• Letter from Medical Officer/Unit
• Letter from Funeral Home

Please note the VAC will report all applicants to IRCC who do not present the required proof of emergency at the time of attending an emergency appointment at the VAC. IRCC may take this into consideration when reviewing the application.

An emergency biometric appointment does not affect IRCC’s processing times for the application or the outcome.

Please note that emergency biometric appointments cannot be scheduled using the online appointment system. To schedule an emergency biometric appointment, please do so by calling the VAC Contact Centre or by visiting the VAC in person.

A printed circuit board (PCB) is a critical component in many electronic devices. It serves as a platform for connecting and supporting electronic components like integrated circuits (ICs), resistors, capacitors, and connectors.

PCBs provide a physical structure and electrical connections for these components. This allows them to work together to perform various functions in electronic devices. A good example is a computer motherboard.

Here are Some Key Points About Printed Circuit Boards:

1. Basic Structure of the Printed Circuit Board

PCBs are typically made of a non-conductive substrate material (usually fibreglass-reinforced epoxy) with a thin layer of copper foil bonded to one or both sides. The copper foil is used to create the conductive pathways, also known as traces or tracks, that carry electrical signals between components.

2. Components: 

Electronic components are soldered onto the PCB. These components can include microchips, transistors, diodes, capacitors, resistors, connectors, and more.

3. Layers

PCBs can have multiple layers of copper traces, with each layer separated by insulating material. Multi-layer PCBs are used in complex electronic devices to accommodate more components and intricate circuitry.

4. Solder Mask

A solder mask is a protective layer applied to the PCB to cover and insulate the copper traces, preventing accidental short circuits and oxidation. It is typically green, but it can come in various colours.

5. Silkscreen

PCBs often have a silkscreen layer, which is a layer of ink containing labels, symbols, and other markings that help with component placement and identification.

6. Through-Hole vs. Surface Mount

PCBs can support through-hole components (components with wire leads that pass through holes in the board) or surface-mount components (components soldered directly to the board’s surface).

7. Manufacturing of Printed Circuit Board

PCBs are manufactured through a process that involves designing the PCB layout using specialized software, fabricating the board itself (which includes etching the copper traces and adding layers), and populating it with electronic components using automated or manual assembly methods.

8. Applications

PCBs are used in a wide range of electronic devices, from simple items like calculators and remote controls to complex systems like smartphones, computers, medical equipment, and aerospace systems.

9. Customization

PCBs can be customized for specific applications. Designers can create unique circuit layouts and choose materials that meet the requirements of the device.

10. Testing

PCBs undergo rigorous testing to ensure they function correctly. This includes electrical testing, functional testing, and quality control checks.

PCBs are a fundamental technology in modern electronics, enabling the miniaturization and functionality of electronic devices we use in our daily lives. They have evolved significantly over the years, becoming more complex and capable as electronic devices have become more sophisticated.

How the Printed Circuit Board is Made

The manufacturing of printed circuit boards (PCBs) involves several steps, from designing the circuit layout to producing the final board. Here’s an overview of the PCB manufacturing process:

• Design: The process begins with the design of the PCB. Engineers and designers use specialized PCB design software to create a digital representation of the circuit board. This includes specifying the placement of components, the routing of traces, and defining any necessary layers for multi-layer boards.
• Schematic Capture: Before creating the PCB layout, a schematic diagram is typically drawn to represent the electrical connections and components in the circuit. This schematic serves as a blueprint for the PCB layout.
• PCB Layout: Using the PCB design software, designers create the physical layout of the circuit board. This includes placing components on the board, routing traces to connect the components as per the schematic, and adding necessary features like drill holes, vias, and fiducial marks.
• Gerber Files: Once the PCB design is complete, the next step is to generate Gerber files. Gerber files contain all the information needed to manufacture the PCB, including layer information, trace widths, component placement, and more. These files are used by PCB manufacturers to fabricate the board.
• Material Selection: PCB materials are typically composed of fiberglass-reinforced epoxy laminates with copper foil bonded to one or both sides. The type of laminate material and copper thickness are chosen based on the specific requirements of the circuit.
• Layer Preparation: For multi-layer PCBs, the individual layers of the board are prepared. This involves cutting and drilling the substrate material to the required size and creating copper layers with the desired traces using photolithography.
• Layer Alignment and Bonding: In the case of multi-layer boards, the individual layers are aligned and bonded together using heat and pressure. Special prepreg material, which is a resin-soaked fibreglass fabric, is used to facilitate bonding between layers.
• Copper Etching: A chemical etching process is used to remove excess copper from the board, leaving behind the desired copper traces. A protective layer called the solder mask is applied to cover the traces and prevent unintended connections.
• Drilling: Holes are drilled in the board to create vias (plated through-holes) for making connections between different layers and to accommodate components with leads that pass through the board (through-hole components).
• Plating: Vias and other exposed copper surfaces are plated with a thin layer of metal, typically copper, to improve conductivity and ensure proper electrical connections.
• Solder Mask Application: A solder mask is applied to the board to insulate the copper traces, preventing unintentional short circuits and protecting the board from environmental factors.
• Silkscreen Printing: The silkscreen layer, which includes labels, component outlines, and other markings, is printed onto the board to aid in component placement and identification.
• Component Assembly: Electronic components are placed on the board using automated pick-and-place machines or manual assembly, depending on the complexity of the PCB.
• Soldering: The components are soldered onto the board to establish electrical connections. This can be done through reflow soldering for surface-mount components or wave soldering for through-hole components.
• Inspection and Testing: The assembled PCBs undergo visual inspection and various tests to ensure quality and functionality. This includes electrical testing, functional testing, and other quality control checks.
• Final Inspection and Packaging: Once the PCBs pass all tests and inspections, they are cleaned, inspected again, and then prepared for packaging and shipment to the end-user or the manufacturer of the electronic device.

Each of these steps is critical in ensuring the successful production of a functional PCB that meets the specifications of the intended electronic device. PCB manufacturing can be highly automated for large-scale production or customized for unique and specialized applications.