As the stereotype goes, when you report a problem to your IT team, their first question is often, “Have you tried turning it off and on again?” While it might seem annoying, the reality is that many issues can indeed be fixed with a reboot. The longer you keep your computer running without a restart or shutdown, the higher the chances of encountering problems. [Read more…]
The Power of Professional Virus RemovalInstalling antivirus software is a great first step toward protecting your computer. Still, relying on that software to keep viruses at bay may not be the best thing. Working with a professional to remove the virus and fix your computer adds security.
Antivirus software protects computers and other devices against various malicious software (malware). It’s designed to detect viruses, worms, Trojans, spyware, adware, and more. It matches known malware patterns and detects suspicious behavior. Then, the program works to block files or websites that might contain malware.
If an infection happens, the software can attempt to limit the threat. It will quarantine or isolate infected files to prevent the malware from spreading.
Many programs actively monitor your systems for real-time protection. Regularly updating your software keeps it current with the most recently identified malware and threats.
If you’re worried about infection, you can also typically start a manual scan. This checks your systems, folders, files, and removable storage devices for malware.
All those benefits are useful, but antivirus software is not foolproof. It relies on databases of known malware and current threats and can miss new approaches, and it might not catch every malware variant out there.
The software is also vulnerable to zero-day attacks, whereby Hackers exploit a new vulnerability until vendors create and send out updates.
Meanwhile, your antivirus may not remove all malware if the infection is deep or complex. You’ll know it’s there but will need the help of a professional to manually clean your computer.
Working with a pro, you can cut device downtime. An expert can identify the problem and prevent data loss. They can also preserve device performance. Otherwise, malware can consume system resources and run processes in the background.
Antivirus software also can’t give you the full picture of what’s happened. A technician can help identify the information compromised, they can also help you change your passwords.
They can also set your computer up to prevent data loss in the future. They’ll protect sensitive files and ensure your data backup or other systems aren’t infected.
In short, they can remove the existing threat and add extra security measures.
Antivirus software is only one part of comprehensive device security, and it’s not infallible.
Don’t just remove viruses, prevent them from happening with a professional’s help. Book an appointment today. We can help you shore up your security against emerging threats.
Are you reading this on a laptop? Take a moment to imagine how you’d feel if your laptop were stolen. Maybe you looked away for a moment at the airport or coffee shop, or someone broke into your car or house. It could be disastrous.
Laptop theft is a real problem. Security software provider Norton reports that over 97% of stolen laptops are never recovered. Laptops are an easy and effective target for bad actors. Some 44% of thieves target laptops for their resale value. Meanwhile, 56% contain sensitive information. [Read more…]
You might remember setting up a “telephone” with a friend made with cups and a string. Or feel nostalgic for the novelty of having your own phone line in your home growing up. Meanwhile, we’re raising the digital generation. They game online, chat online, stream TV online – everything is online. One popular channel for kids’ conversations? Discord. Here’s help keeping your kids safe on this and other online platforms. [Read more…]
Finding Business Balance on the Sliding Scale of SecurityEvery day there’s some new malware or data leak or hacker exploit revelation. Your business is vigilant, but it feels like you always have to be doing more about cybersecurity to remain protected. Meanwhile, you want to balance security measures with usability, convenience, and cost. That balancing act puts you somewhere on the sliding scale of security. [Read more…]
Can Script Kiddies Threaten Your Business?Their name may not prompt anxiety, yet script kiddies are much more dangerous than they sound. These cybercriminals aren’t elite hackers, but they can still compromise your business. [Read more…]
AI chatbots can offer several benefits to businesses, as the technology can help you automate and expedite many business tasks, but be cautious about the information you share with AI chatbots. [Read more…]
With the embrace of smart mobile devices, digital wallets have grown popular. Also known as e-wallets or mobile wallets, these apps store payment information virtually. The convenience is undeniable; the question is whether digital wallets are safe to use.
Examples of popular digital wallets include Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, PayPal, Venmo, Alipay, WeChat Pay, and others. A digital wallet can store:
This enables online purchases, money transfers, bill payments, and in-store payments, all done through mobile devices. Plus, you don’t have to manually enter the payment details each time.
Many digital wallets use near-field communication (NFC) for contactless payments. When you tap your smartphone or smartwatch on a point-of-sale device to pay, you’re taking advantage of NFC.
Digital wallets allow people to travel light. Integrating them with food delivery and ride-share apps can simplify those payments, too. And you no longer have to worry about a thief getting their hands on your credit or debit card.
Still, consider the pros and cons of trusting a digital wallet application.
On the plus side, digital wallets use various security measures. These can include:
At the same time, there are risks. For one, NFC works wirelessly. This means there’s always a chance an attacker could intercept your payment once you authenticate it. They’d need to be near your device to access the information, but it’s possible.
Using a digital wallet application also means you’re relying on technology. Malfunctions could happen. Additionally, it’s possible someone could hack the digital wallet app.
Cybercriminals typically target cryptocurrency digital wallets in the hope of accessing large holdings. Nevertheless, other digital wallets are also at risk.
Still, a physical wallet also risks theft and exposing your financial information. So, there’s no real reason to avoid digital wallets altogether. Instead, take precautions.
Protect your digital wallet and financial information by taking the following steps:
Digital wallets can be a safe and secure way to make payments. Follow these suggested precautions and be mindful of potential risks.
Need help securing your IT? We can help.
When was the last time you had to change your password or received an alert to update your device for what felt like the umpteenth time? These are minor frustrations, but ongoing IT requests can add up to cybersecurity fatigue. You can’t stop securing your tech, but you can combat employee annoyance with the process. [Read more…]
Getting the job done is the focus. Many of us don’t spend much time thinking about how we’re setting up our workspace to do our tasks, yet desk ergonomics can increase productivity, lessen muscle fatigue, and cut work-related aches. [Read more…]
