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Phony Computer Support Calls — A Common Scam

So, one day you’re really busy. You get an unsolicited call from someone claiming they’re “Microsoft Support” or a company associated with Microsoft or your PC manufacturer (like Dell or HP). They claim that there’s a problem with your PC: “Your PC is infected!” They use technical terms. They’ll help. They ask you to use… Continue reading Phony Computer Support Calls — A Common Scam

Best Practices — Personal Computer Configuration

Here’re some standard recommendations that I discuss with my clients: 1. Use a password for your computer account. In other words, when you start up your computer, you’ll need to enter a password to access your desktop. While you may be able to change settings so this step is not required, remember that such a… Continue reading Best Practices — Personal Computer Configuration

Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs) — deceptive, insidious malware

This year I’ve seen more and more Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs) creep onto some of my clients’ PCs. Sometimes their anti-virus programs detect these objects; but more often than not, I’ve installed the free version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware (MWB), which has proved extremely useful at detecting and removing PUPs. Here’s a link which describes MWB’s… Continue reading Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs) — deceptive, insidious malware

Microsoft’s Answer Desk – In-store and Online

Microsoft started a small chain of retail stores in 2009. As noted in Wikipedia’s “Microsoft Store” article, The stores aim to “improve the PC and Microsoft retail purchase experience for consumers worldwide and help consumers make more informed decisions about their PC and software purchases.” The Microsoft Store is similar to the popular Apple Store… Continue reading Microsoft’s Answer Desk – In-store and Online