Avoid putting sensitive, or highly personal, information in an e-mail message.  E-mail [...]]]> It’s next to impossible to use the Internet without divulging some information about yourself, or your online activities. However, there are some things you can do to limit what companies, and other people, can find out about what you do on the web.

Avoid putting sensitive, or highly personal, information in an e-mail message.  E-mail can be accessed and read by more people than you realize. Your internet service provider, employer (if you’re using a work network), or even people logged onto an unsecured wireless network, can intercept and read your e-mails.  A good rule of thumb is this: Don’t put anything in an e-mail message you wouldn’t write on a postcard.

Sign out of your personal accounts when you’re finished using them.  It’s amazing how many people use a public computer to browse Facebook, read personal e-mail messages and go shopping, then leave the computer logged in when they’re done! Even if you’ve closed the browser, you’re still logged in to the website you were using, unless you sign out of it. This means that the next person who uses the computer has an open door into all of the accounts you’ve just used.  Every website that requires you to log in has a link that allows you to log out. Also remember to log out of your accounts when leaving your personal computer for any length of time (this includes dropping it off for repair!).

Don’t install browser toolbars.  While they may offer some convenient features, toolbars have one purpose: to gather information about what you do online. Unless you want to give a company access to your browsing activity, don’t click “ok” when asked if you want to install a toolbar. Keep in mind that these are often installed alongside other free software, so you have to read each step carefully to make sure you’re not installing more than what you want.

Limit the information that can be gathered through your use of search and free webmail.  Many search providers, such as Google, Yahoo! and MSN (Bing), also offer free e-mail accounts.  Web-based e-mail is convenient, but keep in mind that the companies who offer these free accounts can use the information in the messages you send and receive to target advertising for you. If you use the same search provider as you do for e-mail, you’re giving that company a bonanza of personal info!  No, it’s not possible to opt-out of this for a free webmail account (something’s got to pay the bills for Google), but it is possible to use different companies for search and e-mail.  If you use Yahoo!  for email, then use Google for search, or vice versa.

Use a search provider that doesn’t keep track of your IP address.  Startpage.com and Duckduckgo.com are two examples of search engines that don’t track all of your online activities. Ever wonder how Google knows to give you results that are close to your location, or similar to what you’ve searched for before?  Google can do that because it keeps track of your IP address and search history. Google’s not alone; Yahoo, Bing, and many other search engines have similar practices.

It’s a fine balance between protecting your privacy and still being able to take advantage of all the useful services available on the Internet.  Unfortunately, it’s just not possible to stay 100 percent anonymous and use most of the popular web sites and services out there. The companies that offer free e-mail, free web space and social networking accounts pay the bills through advertising revenue, so they do need to collect some information in order to do that. The important part is to not give up more privacy than what’s necessary.

Free screensavers offered for download online are notorious for being spyware bombs. Many of the [...]]]> Let’s face it: The default Windows user interface is boring. It has no pizzazz!  Most folks want to add their personal touches to a new computer, but don’t realize that free screensavers and desktop wallpapers can be filled with malware.

Free screensavers offered for download online are notorious for being spyware bombs. Many of the gunked-up PCs we see in the shop have free screensavers installed, as well as the browser toolbars and other junk programs that come packaged with them. We looked around to try to find free screensavers we could recommend, but weren’t able to find anything that didn’t appear risky. You’re better off using the screensavers that come with Windows, or purchasing one outright. Sometimes free stuff isn’t a bargain.

On the other hand, there are a lot of free desktop wallpaper images out there that you can download and use without worrying about malware sneaking onto your computer.  Keep in mind that wallpapers are images, so they should have image file extensions, like: .jpg, .bmp, .png.  The wallpaper you want to download should have a name like “areallynicepicture.jpg,” NOT “areallynicepicture.exe.”

Why?

Files that end with .exe are executable. They’re programs. What do programs do? They install and run. Files that end with .scr are scripts. What do scripts do? They run. Why do desktop photos need to install and run? Answer: They don’t. Anything passing itself off as a desktop wallpaper that really isn’t a photo is bad news.

You can avoid this by using sites that you know are safe. Microsoft has a nice collection of desktop wallpaper available for free download.  You can also use your own photos as wallpapers for your desktop, and as a screensaver.

How?

To download a new wallpaper, find the picture you want to download. Click on it to make it bigger. Most sites will expand an image file when you click on it. Right click, and select “save image as.” A window will pop up, and you can select where you want to save the photo. You can save them anywhere you like, as long as you know where to find them afterwards.

After saving your image, go to the folder where you saved it, right click on the image’s icon, and select “Set as desktop wallpaper.”  It’s all set.  If you want to change it, go find another image in your system, and follow the same steps.

Windows has a screensaver option that allows you to show a photo slideshow as a screensaver. You can enable this by right-clicking on your desktop, selecting “personalize,” then “screen saver.”  You can set the speed of the slide show, as well as what photo folder you want to include in the slide show. It’s a far better option than catching an infection from a free screensaver you found online, don’t you think?

If you do fall victim to the malware-laden screensaver ploy, don’t despair. Our computer security experts can get your computer cleaned out and working like new. Our full maintenance service is just $97.30. Call us at 671-6772 for more details.

Well, that’s it for this week’s Digital 411. Have a wonderful weekend, and happy computing!

USB Flash Drives:

What [...]]]> Time is running out, and your shopping list is far from complete! What do you do? If the folks on your list use computers, you’re in luck! Finding a great gift is easy and won’t break the bank. Here are some things we know we’d like to find under the tree:

USB Flash Drives:

What did we do before these were invented? We use ‘em every day, for documents, programs, pictures … you name it. They’re small enough to fit on a keychain, yet have enough space to carry tons of stuff. You can have your files on the go! And, they’re inexpensive. We’ve seen them on sale for less than $20; sometimes even less than $10.

External Hard Drives:

In the event of a computer failure, a good backup would be the best Christmas gift ever. External hard drives are a good place to store a back up copy of photos, important documents, financial software data, an extensive music collection, or anything else that your loved ones just can’t live without. Just about every big-box store sells them, so they’re easy to find.

USB Hub:

Ever want to plug something into a USB port, and you just can’t find an empty one to use? We have, too. A USB hub can solve the problem, at least for low-power devices like flash drives, mice and wireless adapters. Think of it like one of those power strip extension cords for a USB port. It turns one port into four, or six … you get the idea.

Web Cam:

Skype is pretty popular these days. It’s a cheap way to talk to friends and family, and gives you the chance to “visit” with them using a web cam. Don’t have one? They make great gifts! You can find USB web cams at most big-box stores that are easy to install and use.

Laptop Cooling Pad:

They really should have called laptop computers something like “laptop furnaces.” Those things can get very, very warm. Since heat and computers are not a good mixture, anything that helps cool a system down is a good thing to have. Cooling pads have fans that help ventilate hot air out of a laptop, and prop them up a bit, allowing for better air flow. If anyone on your list has a laptop, this could be the perfect gift.

Mr. PC Sales & Services Gift Certificate:

Now, this is the perfect gift for the discriminating computer user. You never know when computer problems will rear their ugly heads, but you do know this: They will. A gift certificate from Mr. PC can come in handy for those times when the computer just doesn’t want to behave. You can get one in any dollar amount, and get it right away. There’s no shipping, no wrapping, no fuss. What’s not to like about that? Call us at 671-6772, or stop in to our shop at 1627 E. Silver Springs Blvd. in Ocala to find out more.

Have a great weekend, and happy computing!

Chip

Patti

We all experience computer trouble from time to time. Some issues are merely annoying, while others are warnings of a much more serious problem. Taking some simple troubleshooting steps can help determine if your system needs expert attention.

Error messages often happen after installing new software, or upgrading an older version of a program. [...]]]>  

We all experience computer trouble from time to time. Some issues are merely annoying, while others are warnings of a much more serious problem. Taking some simple troubleshooting steps can help determine if your system needs expert attention.

Error messages often happen after installing new software, or upgrading an older version of a program. Take note of any error messages you see, writing them down, if possible. Think about what you might have installed recently. Were you notified about Windows updates? New versions of your antivirus program, Adobe Reader? Java? Flash? Jot this down, too.

If you did just install an update, and the error is mentioning the updated program, you may be able to uninstall it using the Control Panel. In Windows 7 and Vista, this function is available under Programs and Features. In XP, you’ll find it in Add/Remove Programs.

Here are some other troubleshooting tips:

Try rebooting your system. Shut the computer off, then start it up again. Sometimes, this simple step will solve minor glitches.

If you get an error message when you try to install software, or a program won’t launch, check to make sure that your computer meets the program requirements. You may not have enough RAM, the correct operating system or service pack, or you might need to add a video card. It’s usually a good idea to exceed the minimum requirements for software, to make sure that the program will run properly.

Close applications that are running, but you aren’t using. If there are a bunch of icons in the system tray (on the bottom right-hand corner of your screen), you have a lot of programs running in the background. Shut them off, and stop them from running when you turn on your computer. This can free up resources for your computer, so you have fewer issues.

Uninstall programs that you don’t use. Also, clean out your temporary files. Your hard drive can fill up if you don’t pay attention, especially if you have a computer that’s a few years old. If your hard drive is nearly full, you may have problems running certain programs, and performing some system tasks.

Update and run your antivirus and antispyware programs. New threats emerge every day, so it’s important to make sure you’re using the most updated security software possible. The antivirus program that came installed on your computer six years ago won’t do you much good against today’s malware!

Make sure you’re running only ONE antivirus program. If you have two or more, you are going to have problems. Programs like Norton, McAfee, Microsoft’s Security Essentials, AVG and Avast don’t like to share. If you do have more than one antivirus, uninstall one of them, and your problems may go away.

If you’ve tried everything you know how to do, then it’s time to call the experts. Bring your computer in to Mr. PC Computer Sales & Services, or give us a call at 671-6772, and we will figure out what’s going on. Many problems can be solved remotely!

Defraggler (www.piriform.com/defraggler)

This handy little program is a vast improvement over the Windows utility. It’s easy to install, easy to use, and it’s free. With Defraggler, you can defragment your whole drive, or just a certain directory. It has a “quick defrag” feature, and also allows you to schedule a disk defrag. Find out more, and get it here.

Windows XP is a familiar, stable operating system that has been the face of personal [...]]]> Ten years ago to us might seem like yesterday, but it’s an eternity in the world of technology. The car that you bought in 2002 might still be running like new, but the computer you purchased back then certainly isn’t!

Windows XP is a familiar, stable operating system that has been the face of personal computing for over 10 years, but its days are coming to an end. Microsoft no longer sells it, and will end support for the venerable operating system in 2014. While that seems like a long way off, there are some good reasons for buying a new computer before then.

Experts warn about security vulnerabilities in Windows XP, especially if all available updates and service packs aren’t installed. Given the particularly malicious nature of today’s infections, you could be also putting your bank and credit card accounts at risk! Using older, out-of-date software also might leave you open to infection. Windows XP lacks some of the built-in security features that Windows 7 includes.

Some folks don’t want to purchase a computer with Windows 7 because they don’t want to purchase new versions of programs they use every day. This is a legitimate concern; why would you want to spend money on new software when the old one works just as well? Eventually, though, you will be forced to do so when your XP machine fails. And, someday it will.

This brings up another important point: You will have to replace that aging computer at some point. Replacement parts aren’t usually available for obsolete systems; and, if you can get them, they’re usually quite expensive. It’s better to make the move into a new computer while the old one is still plugging along, and you’re not having to make a split-second decision while your main PC has given up the ghost.

We know that Microsoft doesn’t always have a good track record with its operating systems. Windows Vista comes to mind as a recent example. But, we’ve found Windows 7 to be stable, fast and easy to use. Microsoft definitely got it right with this incarnation of Windows.

That said, the company is already working on its next version, Windows 8. It’s still too early to give a definitive answer, but it does seem like the next Windows won’t look much like the current one. Windows 8 is slated for release late next year. What does that mean for people who are considering whether to hold onto an old computer or get a new one? If you wait too long, you’re going to be getting Windows 8.

If you’re still using a Windows XP system, start thinking about how you’re going to replace it. Will your current software work, or will you have to go with newer versions. What about your printer, scanner or other devices? There’s a lot to consider, but it’s best to do it before you push the power button and nothing happens.

We can help you transition from an older computer to a new one. Our technicians can move your data from your old PC to a shiny new computer, install software, even come out to your home to set it up. We also offer a full line of custom-built computers backed by our iron-clad warranty. Give us a call at 671-6772 to find out more.

Free Online Storage and Sync

This service flew under the radar a few weeks ago when we profiled some cloud-based storage services. CX.com offers 10 GB of free storage, which is twice as much as what you’ll find with other companies. This is a great way to back up, store and share files, such as documents, pictures and audio or video clips. You can even get MORE storage for free by referring your friends! Find out more here.

Fake apps, Skype scams, fraudulent Facebook friends, and bogus business files. These are just a few of the latest tricks cybercrooks use to get your financial data or gain control over your computer.

Fake Facebook App Spam

Experts (including us) have been telling people for years to avoid opening e-mail attachments, and to stay [...]]]>  

Fake apps, Skype scams, fraudulent Facebook friends, and bogus business files. These are just a few of the latest tricks cybercrooks use to get your financial data or gain control over your computer.

Fake Facebook App Spam

Experts (including us) have been telling people for years to avoid opening e-mail attachments, and to stay away from links sent in e-mail messages. But, people continue to do it, so this tactic is a popular way to spread malware.

A particularly nasty one that’s making the rounds over the web is an e-mail that features a Facebook application designed to record a message for your family and friends to listen to after you die. While this does seem morbid, quite a few folks are falling for it, and getting a nasty infection for their trouble.

Here’s how it works: You get the message, and are curious about it. You click on the link in the e-mail, then you are prompted to download an .exe file. The file isn’t a Facebook app; it’s a Trojan designed to steal your user names, passwords, and other sensitive information, and also allows its controllers to access any cameras you have attached to the computer!

Skype Calls Dish out Fake AV

Criminals have noticed Skype’s popularity, and have designed a scam to take advantage of it. It’s a lot like e-mail spam, but instead of unwanted mail messages, it involves Skype calls.

Here’s how it works:

You’re on the computer, with Skype running in the background. All of a sudden, you have a call! This is one like nothing you’ve seen before, because it claims to be a message from your computer itself. A recorded voice, very computer-y sounding, tells you that your computer isn’t protected, and you have to repair it. In order to do so, you have to click a link and visit a certain website. When you do, you’ll be infected with a fake anti-virus program that will take over your computer and try to convince you to pay for it.

Beware of False Friends

Most of us use social networks, like Facebook or LinkedIn, to keep in touch with friends, family or business associates. Scammers have taken notice, and are using social networking sites to find easy prey.

Here’s how it works: A scam artist sends a “friend” request to a person he finds on Facebook. The request is accepted, which then allows him to have access to that person’s list of friends (since most people don’t set their Facebook security settings the way they should). Now, the scammer looks through the list of friends, and picks out a few who seem like they’d be good targets. He sends a “friend” request to those people, who see that the scammer is friends with someone they know. Some of them will probably accept, which then allows the scam artist access to their personal information stored on Facebook, and gives him a way to contact them. One of them might be you.

‘Official’ Spam

We’ve all seen the spam e-mail messages about Viagra, weight-loss schemes, overseas pharmacies, and other things we can’t discuss in polite company. Since these topics have been used so often, spammers had to come up with a better way to get their messages opened, links clicked and attachments downloaded. And, they did: Spam messages that look important and official.

Here’s how it works: You get an e-mail message with the subject line “End of Month Statement.” It shows a spreadsheet attached, which you open. The spreadsheet contains a Trojan, which infects your computer.

This same tactic is used in many ways. We’ve seen messages claiming to be from UPS , FedEx or the Post Office, contacting people regarding a missed package delivery. Or, e-mails that appear to come from government agencies, such as the IRS, FBI or CIA.

What can you do to protect yourself?

• Don’t download e-mail attachments, even if they look official. If you receive one from a company, agency, or colleague, call and find out if it’s legit before opening it. The inconvenience of a telephone call vastly outweighs the hassle of a keylogger infection.
• Only install Facebook apps that are known to you, and offered on the Facebook web site. Any social networking application offered to you through an e-mail message is fake.
• Don’t accept Skype calls from unknown parties. There’s a security setting you can change in the Skype options to prevent people you don’t know from contacting you over that network. If you do receive a suspicious call on Skype, don’t respond and do NOT click on any links displayed!
• Don’t “friend” anyone you do not personally know, even if you have mutual online friends. People can pretend to be anyone they want to be online; you have to be careful.
• Make sure you’re not sharing more than you want to on social networking sites. Facebook has privacy settings that you can change to limit who has access to your personal information, friends list, posts, status messages, photos, etc.

If you do suspect that you (or someone who uses your computer) have been tricked into clicking on something unsafe, give the security experts at Mr. PC Computer Sales & Services a call at 671-6772. Our Full Maintenance service will clean out all malware from your computer, make sure that your security software is up to date, and streamline your system’s overall operation.

Free stuff of the week:

Ubuntu One for Windows

If you’ve heard of Ubuntu, you’re probably thinking of the popular Linux operating system. What many people don’t know is that Ubuntu One offers 5 GB of free online storage. This deal used to be valid only for Ubuntu Linux users, but now it’s available for Windows. You can download the Ubuntu One application for your desktop or laptop, Android phone, iPhone or iPad. It allows you to easily share files between all of your devices. You can download the Windows Ubuntu One app here: (this is the beta version) https://wiki.ubuntu.com/UbuntuOne/Windows

Well, that’s it for this week’s Digital 411. Have a safe, wonderful weekend, and happy computing!

These zombie networks, called botnets, are a serious threat, experts say. Criminals are using these networks [...]]]> Your computer could be part of a vast electronic zombie army and you wouldn’t even know it. Hackers are harnessing the power of millions of compromised computers for shady purposes, while unsuspecting computer users go about their daily business.

These zombie networks, called botnets, are a serious threat, experts say. Criminals are using these networks to serve malware, send massive amounts of spam e-mail messages, conduct attacks against commercial or government web servers, and are even renting them to other crooks!

Essentially, a botnet is a supercomputer. While one infected PC may only contribute a fraction of its processing power, added all together, a huge network of similar computers can rival the biggest mainframes. One botnet authorities discovered in 2008 contained evidence pointing to over 20 million individual computers!

How does this happen? The bad guys can gain control over your computer more easily than you think. All you have to do is click on an e-mail attachment or infected link, and your computer can become infected with malicious software that takes control. It runs in the background, allowing you to do most of the things you’d normally do with your system. You can go about your daily computing business, never knowing that your computer is now part of a massive network of compromised PCs.

While there’s no 100-percent effective computer security solution (other than totally disconnecting from the Intenet), there are some steps you can take to minimize the risk to your computer and personal information:

Stay away from peer-to-peer networks (such as those used by Limewire, Frostwire, BitTorrent, Bearshare, etc.). Many files hosted on these networks are packed with malicious code. The networks themselves also are commonly used by criminals to control compromised computers, so it’s best to not have any of that software on your system at all.

Be wary of e-mail attachments, especially ones with file extensions of .exe, .cmd., .scr, .com, or anything else you don’t immediately recognize. Don’t open them, even if they come from someone you know.

Make sure that Windows is regularly updated. Just this week, Microsoft issued a bunch of updates designed to close security holes in the popular Internet Explorer browser. Even better, enable automatic updating.

Don’t use pirated software. Yes, some programs are very expensive. But, downloading cracked versions of commercial software is a great way to compromise your computer. People who offer these pirated programs for download either on “warez” sites or on peer-to-peer networks will package malicious code inside. You’re not really getting something for nothing.

If your computer seems a bit slower, and you notice it accessing the hard drive quite a bit, even when you’re not doing anything particularly taxing, you might have a problem. Bring your computer in to the expert technicians at Mr. PC Computer Sales & Services. We can check your system, and find out if you’ve been a victim of hackers. Call us at 671-6772 to find out more.