Trying to identify a cheap security DVR's real manufacturer

So, someone I know has a cheap security DVR from Aldi. Distributed by "WinPlus Australia", it's been designated the brand and model "Cocoon Digital Video Security System IT115008".

With the latest hype around the Mirai botnet commandering things exactly like such a security DVR, I decided to get in touch with the local distributor and ask them if any issues had been reported, advisories released, or updates made available.

Weird noise from my phone...

Awhile back, I noticed that every so often, my phone would make a weird sound and I couldn't figure out what it was.

The systems you'd think toll road providers would have down pat...

UPDATE: I got a response from Citylink...

I'm a user of the "Citylink" toll roads in Melbourne, Australia. They have a wonderful roadside assistance service for people who break down on the tollroad, but their accounting systems leave something to be desired.

Who is adsl2exchanges.com.au?

When I'm checking for exchange details for myself and friends here in Australia to see which companies have DSLAMs (Digital Subscriber Line Access Modules - the exchange side of ADSL) and on which DSLAMs ports are available, I use a website called adsl2exchanges. It's got some good tools by hooking into Telstra Wholesale etc. What isn't exactly clear, however, is who's behind the site.

Anyone else noticed the rate of increase in movie pricing in Australia?

I like going to the movies. Generally comfy seats, nice dark air conditioned room and decent sound systems with a huge screen. That aside, I remember when "Tightass Tuesdays" had $7 tickets. $10 for most days. Then they smashed through the $10 pricepoint well and truly with only brief stops around $12 and $16.

McDonalds Free Wifi in Australia

Sometimes you just need somewhere to park between meetings without forking out for outrageous parking fees, but you don't want to unplug or cough up for 3G data charges; there are some down sides but overall, it's a nifty service if you take into account what you can or cannot do.