Be careful installing FREE software

You never know with FREE software and even some paid for software – that is why it is always best to be careful and know what you are downloading and read the screens as they pass by. Today’s blog was first posted through Kim Kamando then through a local group I work with, the Space Coast PC Users Group.  It’s worth passing along to anyone you know with a PC (that may be a little new to this stuff) :-).  Remember when it comes to the Computer Health needs of Brevard’s Senior Citizens –look no further than Computer Tutor!  321-431-3866 and online at www.ComputerTutorHelp.Us

“ Many free software programs install browser toolbars and other programs. These may send your data to a third party. In many cases, they won't add anything to the Web browsing experience.
Programs may also change your file associations. This is a particular concern with media programs. Your files won't automatically open in your preferred program when you double-click them. Of course, you'll also find programs that install shortcuts on the desktop and system tray. Others plant toolbars in your Web browser.
Be sure to read the screens when installing software. I know, it's not fun. Uncheck any options for modifying files, installing add-on toolbars and other options that seem wrong. They probably are.”

Computer Tutor wants to take it a step further and show you the screen shots or commonly missed ‘malware’ or toolbars that come with software we like to download such as AVG FRee, CCleaner, and other great malware cleaning tools (with usefulness comes a price) what did you expect for free?  OF Course they are going to try to slip something by you. 

In this example you will see many different options, such as where the icon should be placed once the program is installed.  Another option is to add the Yahoo tool bar.  Not a necessary feature of the software and may be annoying to the person once it is installed. So watch for these little things. It will save you having to uninstall it in the future.

Here is another commonly downloaded software AVG antivirus:  In this case not only is your IE home page changed a tool bar is also added to the IE screen. 

I use and highly recommend each of the software's shown here but they do come with some attachments that you have to watch out for.   If you pay attention to what you are downloading and watch and read the screens presented to you during the install process you should be able to  take well educated decisions about what your are installing.

I hope you have found this information helpful.  If you have learned something please pass this blog around to your friends. 

Thanks!

Stacey Kile

Computer Tutor of Melbourne Florida 321-431-3866

www.ComputerTutorHelp.Us

Is it possible to get a virus from surfing the Internet like a regular computer on my smartphone?

 

I was doing some research on local computer repair shops when I ran across this article by Ken of Data DR.s, a local and national Franchise Computer Repair business, – many of us are now using these Smart Phones and this seems like an excellent question – some of us might have about our phones.  So read on to see if your Smart Phone is as Dumb as our computers?

Answer

Thanks again to Data DR.s for today’s Simply Seniors Computer Tutor blog.  This question was answered on September 17, 2010. Much of the information contained herein may have changed since posting.

The amount of new ‘malware’ (malicious software) that is being written to infect computers that are on the Internet continues to grow at a fever pitch.

Most of the really sophisticated malware is written by organized crime syndicates around the world that have plenty of resources and a really big motivator: your identity.

A recent study shows that if you search for entertainment sites (music, video, games, software, etc.) and include the word ‘free’, your chances of coming across a malicious website goes up exponentially; in some cases 300%!

Additionally popular items like ringtones, wallpaper and screensavers have traditionally been big targets of the malware producers, so be careful what you search for!

When it comes to your question about smartphone vulnerabilities, if you’re referring to the common ‘drive-by download’ attack that silently slips malicious programs into your computer when you visit a rogue website, the answer (for time being) is no.

As of this writing, browser-based attacks on smartphones are generally in the ‘proof of concept’ stage, meaning that researchers are finding theoretical possibilities, but nothing substantial exists in the wild.

There is a new vulnerability that was recently discovered for Adobe’s Flash player, which runs on desktop operating systems like Windows, Mac and Linux, but the latest Android operating system (2.2) has some exposure to this exploit (the first of its kind, since most smartphones can’t run Flash).

At this point in time, it’s actually safer to use your smartphone for accessing web content, especially the fringe content that is highly targeted for desktop computers, but that’s likely to change over time.

With the popularity of smartphones on the rise, worldwide, be assured that this is an area that the malware coders are focusing on for future attacks.

The real concern for smartphone users for now are downloadable applications that can contain malware or silently access private information on your phone (contacts, e-mails, etc.) and upload it to a remote server.

Smartphone makers do their best to police rogue applications in their various app delivery systems, but they have had apps (only a handful of the hundreds of thousands) get into their systems that snuck past the security tests and were later pulled from their app stores.

Those that bypass the controls put in place by smartphone manufacturers (called jailbreaking) so they can override the system and install un-authorized applications will be the ones at greatest risk going forward.

With no orchestrated screening process for those that install apps outside of the system, malware producers will continue to experiment on those willing to take the risk.

Google’s Android platform is both open and gaining a lot of users, so it’s likely we will continue to see more of the malicious activity aimed at this emerging and more accessible group of smartphone users.

One of the side-benefits to only getting applications from the authorized sources is that the vetting process (especially for Apple’s App Store) is pretty rigid and the likelihood of a malicious program getting onto your phone is very low.

As the capabilities of what a smartphone (and now tablets like the iPad) can do increase, so likely will the risks in using those features (the current Flash issue is a good example) so keep your guard up and stay tuned.

Simply Seniors Computer Tutor can help with your Smart Phone questions as well!  Learn how to sync your Smart Phone to your computer.  Call today for more information 321-431-3866.  Servicing senior citizens  technological needs since 2002!

Thanks again to the really smart people over at Data Dr.s who wrote today’s technical tips.  This was originally posted by Ken of Data Doctors on September 17, 2010 on their web site.  

How to Stop Spending Too Much Time Online - wikiHow

How to Stop Spending Too Much Time Online - wikiHow

Are You Inviting Criminals Into Your Home?

Cybercrime – has it happened to you? Is it just a matter of time before it happens to each and every one of us?  Today’s article comes from AOL.com. 

Even if you're smart about protecting your identity, there is a new and dangerous digital threat. When you share music or download movies from peer-to-peer file-sharing networks, you could also be virtually unlocking your home to criminals.

Don’t remember granting identity thieves permission to come into your life? While you're busy downloading innocuous files, criminals can be tagging along--swiping everything that's on your computer, from your Social Security number to your health information.
Peer-to-peer (or P2P) file-sharing networks are hugely popular with about 22 million people globally using them every second to swap movies, music, software and documents. The problem? Users of file-sharing networks can unwittingly expose the contents of entire hard drives containing your information to everyone else on the network if the P2P file-sharing application is not configured properly. By simply searching for specific keywords, identity thieves are able to access and download the personal documents of thousands upon thousands of individuals that can include personally identifiable information.

In 2009, "The Today Show" demonstrated the dangers of these networks. They found an astounding 25,800 student loan applications, more than 150,000 tax returns, and nearly 626,000 credit reports--all made easily accessible on file-sharing networks.

While antivirus software is great at protecting your computer from viruses, it doesn't stop thieves from accessing your hard drive if you've given them permission. And if you use peer-to-peer file-sharing networks you may be doing exactly that.

You may think you're safe if you don't share files over the Internet, but think again…

Your doctor, employer or accountant could be doing it--with your personal information. The Federal Trade Commission recently warned nearly 100 organizations, including companies, schools and local governments, that the personal information of their customers and/or employees had been leaked onto online file-sharing networks. The information found included Social Security numbers, health information, and driver's licenses--more than enough information for any identity thief to successfully steal someone's identity.

How can you protect yourself?

A number of programs like TrustedID, LifeLock and Identity Guard help prevent identity theft. LifeLock, for example, not only helps provide credit protection, but also notifies you if your personal information is being used to apply for retail credit or mortgage loans, etc. In addition, it sends updated email alerts of potential identity threats and patrols websites for the illegal selling of your personal information.

For more information on these products follow these links to their web sites. 

If your computer is infected with viruses or you need more one on one information on how to protect YOUR computer – contact Simply Seniors Computer Tutor, Brevard’s PREMIERE Computer Consultant Service exclusively for senior citizens!  Visit www.computertutorhelp.com for helpful links to legitimate FREE software to help clean your computer. 

Be sure to visit us on Facebook and become a FAN!!!

9 ways to increase the security of your laptop while on the road

Today’s Article is brought to us by Microsoft!  I am a laptop owner and as the prices have dropped so are many more computer users.  If I were to loose my laptop I would loose EVERYTHING!!! I would feel like I had lost a good friend.  All of that information!  Well, ask much as I travel with my laptop I make sure I have a good back up copy of my information which is a good rule of thumb because you never know!  Here  are some more suggestions to keep your laptop safe while traveling.

Using your laptop to get work done away from your office or on the road is becoming widely accepted. But this rapid growth in laptop computing has made portable systems the target for theft around the world. If your laptop computer is stolen, company information can be exposed, as well as your personal and financial information.

Use these 9 tips to learn how you can keep your laptop more secure when you're on the road.

1. Avoid using computer bags

Computer bags can make it obvious that you're carrying a laptop. Instead, try toting your laptop in something more common like a padded briefcase or suitcase.

---

2. Never leave access numbers or passwords in your carrying case

Keeping your password with your laptop is like keeping the keys in the car. Without your password or important access numbers it will be more difficult for a thief to access your personal and corporate information.

---

3. Carry your laptop with you

Always take your laptop on the plane or train rather then checking it with your luggage. It's easy to lose luggage and it's just as easy to lose your laptop. If you're traveling by car, keep your laptop out of sight. For example, lock it in the trunk when you're not using it.

---

4. Encrypt your data

If someone should get your laptop and gain access to your files, encryption can give you another layer of protection. With Windows XP, Windows Vista, and Windows 7 you can choose to encrypt files and folders. Then, even if someone gains access to an important file, they can't decrypt it and see your information. Learn more about how to encrypt your data with Windows XP, encrypt your data with Windows Vista, or encrypt your data with Windows 7.

---

5. Keep your eye on your laptop

When you go through airport security don't lose sight of your bag. Hold your bag until the person in front of you has gone through the metal detector. Many bags look alike and yours can easily be lost in the shuffle.

---

6. Avoid setting your laptop on the floor

Putting your laptop on the floor is an easy way to forget or lose track of it. If you have to set it down, try to place it between your feet or against your leg (so you're always aware it's there).

---

7. Buy a laptop security device

If you need to leave your laptop in a room or at your desk, use a laptop security cable to securely attach it to a heavy chair, table, or desk. The cable makes it more difficult for someone to take your laptop. There are also programs that will report the location of a stolen laptop. They work when the laptop connects to the Internet, and can report the laptop's exact physical location. One such tracing program is ComputracePlus.

---

8. Use a screen guard

These guards help prevent people from peeking over your shoulder as you work on sensitive information in a public place. This is especially helpful when you're traveling or need to work in a crowded area. This screen guard from Secure-It is just one example of a screen guard you could use.

---

9. Try not to leave your laptop in your hotel room or with the front desk

Too many things have been lost in hotel rooms and may not be completely secure. If you must leave your laptop in your room, put the "do not disturb" sign on the door.

---

---

What to do if your laptop is stolen

• Change your network password to help secure access to corporate servers.

• Report the theft to local authorities (police, etc.) and to your company's IT department.

• If customer data was on the laptop, contact your account representative, legal representative, or appropriate person at your company so they can take the appropriate actions.

Clean your computer

“I have a dirty secret. I've never cleaned my computer. Sure, I've dusted my monitor, but I haven't taken off the cover or tried to reach the crumbs lurking inside my keyboard.”

Our friends at Microsoft bring us today’s blog – as a computer technician I have seen some GROSS computers.  We have had them with roaches inside, spider webs, heavy dust and smokers computers are the worst because they become sticky and the dust the is very hard to remove from fans and cooling vents.  Take a look at your laptop right now, gross isn’t it? 

"Your computer could fry if you don't keep it clean," says Jonathon Millman, chief technology officer for Hooplah Interactive.

Dust clogs the vents behind your computer, which causes your CPU to heat up—and heat is the biggest cause of component failure in computers. Regular cleaning could save you costly maintenance fees down the road.

Keep your computer in tip-top shape by following Millman's guide to a spotless computer system.

Note about malicious software

Trying to clean up your computer in the antivirus software sense? This guide on the Microsoft Security website provides instructions, a free safety scan, and a malicious software removal tool you can download.

---

Preparation

You'll need:

• screwdriver

• can of compressed air (available from computer dealers or office-supply stores)

• cotton swabs (do not use a cotton ball)

• rubbing alcohol

• paper towels or anti-static cloths

• water

Always turn your computer off before you begin and unplug all the cords.

---

Step 1: Inside the case

Using a screwdriver, remove the side of the case that's opposite your motherboard. Touch as little as possible inside the computer, keeping fingers away from cards and cords.

Blow air around all of the components and along the bottom of the case, keeping the nozzle four inches away from the machine. Blow air into the power supply box and into the fan (from the back of the case). Lastly, blow air into the floppy disk and CD drives. Wipe the inside of the cover with a lightly moistened cloth before replacing it.

Millman recommends doing this every three months if your case sits on the floor, if you have pets that shed, or if you smoke. Otherwise, every six to eight months is fine.

---

Step 2: Outside the case

Run a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol around all of the openings on the back of your case. Give them one swipe with the damp end of the swab and one swipe with the dry end. Do this as often as you clean the inside of your computer.

---

Step 3: Keyboard

Turn the keyboard upside down and gently shake it. Most of the crumbs and dust will fall out. Take a can of compressed air and blow into and around the keys. Next, take a cotton swab and dip it in rubbing alcohol. It should be damp, but not wet. Run the cotton swab around the outside of the keys. Rub the tops of the keys. If you have a laptop, follow the same procedure but take extra care with your machine. Do this monthly.

Spills — If you have kids, you're worried about spills. If it happens, immediately turn off your computer, disconnect the keyboard, and flip it over. While the keyboard is upside down, blot the top with a paper towel, blow compressed air between the keys and leave it to air dry overnight. For laptops, liquid can easily penetrate the hard drive so turn the computer over immediately and and then leave it to air dry overnight.

Laptop spills need more attention because liquid can easily penetrate the keyboard and damage internal parts. For laptop spills, immediately turn off the computer and remove any external power source and other items plugged into it. Turn the laptop over, remove the battery, and then bring it to your nearest repair center to check for internal damage. Simply blowing compressed air into the keyboard and letting your computer air dry upside down overnight aren't enough because liquids can sit inside a laptop for days.

For all spills, be aware that anything other than plain water may cause severe damage, and never attempt to dry a keyboard or laptop in a microwave or conventional oven.

---

Step 4: Mouse

Rub the top and bottom of your mouse with a paper towel dipped in rubbing alcohol. Open the back and remove the ball. Wash the ball with water and let it air dry. To clean inside the mouse, dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and rub all of the components. Scrape hard-to-remove grime with your fingernail. Finally, blow air into the opening. Replace the ball and the cover. Do this monthly.

---

Step 5: Monitor

Moisten a paper towel or a soft, lint-free cloth with water. (You can also buy monitor cleaning products at computer-supply stores.) Don't spray liquid directly onto the screen—spray the cloth instead. Wipe the screen gently to remove dust and fingerprints. Never touch the back of the monitor.

For laptop screens, Millman suggests buying a special cleaning solution available at computer stores. Do this weekly.

Finally, make sure that everything is dry before you plug your computer back in.

---

Article written by Alyson Munroe and adapted from an original piece from Microsoft Home Magazine.

Keeping up with the Blog

As you can see I did go for a few months without posting.  I am wondering if the Blog is worth my time. Of course what I need to prove that it is worth the time I spend, is followers and then ultimately I need to produce income from these followers.  Hmm but how to do that? 

Computer Tutor is always looking to grow and expand.  If you can make suggestions that will help us better aid senior citizens and their computer needs please write.

At this time we offer an array of services from purchasing the computer and setting the PC up in the clients home, to sitting and training someone new one on one.  You can see a complete listing on our web site at www.sscomputertutor.com 

If you know a senior citizen that needs computer help in central FL contact Simply Seniors Computer Tutor!

321-431-3866