Today, business is all about streamlining and finding efficiencies. And that even extends to embracing all-in-one computers. Users get a desktop computer that integrates monitor, processing, and ports in one. Still, there are pros and cons to consider. [Read more…]
In the midst of a global lockdown, many of us have been relying on webcams to stay connected. These cameras let us join virtual meetings for work and online hangouts with friends. But bad actors can also use a webcam to spy.
Someone watching through a small laptop or personal computer camera may sound farfetched. And if you don’t make a hat out of tinfoil, aliens will take over your brain, right?
Except, it is true that webcams can be used for spying.
Seeing someone with a piece of tape over their webcam isn’t that unusual. Even Facebook’s founder does it. At conferences now, you might even receive a branded sliding webcam cover as swag.
How Webcam Spying WorksHow can someone access your webcam in the first place? Typically, they’ve installed malware. The malicious software allows them to remotely control your computer and view its webcam.
A cybercriminal might access your webcam using spy software, a remote access trojan (RAT). The software spreads through freeware, spam emails, infected attachments, or fake website links.
The software allows the remote user to take control of your computer. They could view your online activity, read messages, or capture screens and keystrokes, and they’ll be able to turn your webcam on to spy on you – without you knowing it.
The webcam light located near the lens will indicate whether the camera is currently recording. However, it’s easy to miss and many people don’t understand what the light means.
Well, there’s that piece of tape, or you might use a Post-It note to cover the camera, but that doesn’t address the bigger issue. Since we’re talking about malware here, the usual rules apply.
While we’re talking about webcams, keep in mind your smartphone camera and any surveillance cameras need protection too. On your phone, keep your passcode private and make sure antivirus and security patching is up to date. With a surveillance system, always change the default password – you’d be amazed how many people don’t bother to do so – as that’s just making the hacker’s job easy for them!
Want to be sure you’re not being spied on? Our IT experts can make sure you have a strong firewall in place to monitor network traffic and block suspicious activity. We can also ensure your antivirus and malware security is top-notch.
Don’t find yourself on camera when you’re not ready for your closeup! Book an appointment today:
Is there one thing we can count on now with COVID-19? The situation can change in an instant. You may have been confident in your business continuity plans in the past, but the pandemic has shaken us all up. It’s a solid reminder to review our plans to get back to business quickly and seamlessly. [Read more…]
Cyberattacks and data breaches happen worldwide, and no one is immune. Your business needs to protect its networks and systems, and secure sensitive data. But how much do you know about the types of cybercriminals out there? This roundup discusses the biggest threats and what they’re after. [Read more…]
The digital security landscape today is not what it used to be.
There was a time when desktop computers and other PCs would only ship with antivirus software. These days, we are seeing units hit the market with password managers, VPNs, and other security programs pre-installed. If anything, this shows that a lot of things have changed between then and now. [Read more…]
A new ransomware variant has been discovered for macOS. Yes, even Mac/Apple computers can get infected with malware like viruses and RansomWare. Ransomware is a specific type of malware that targets your files and locks them up. It then requests that you send them payment in order to get your files back! Of course, even after you pay there is no guarantee that these criminals will actually unlock your files. The biggest take away from this is that you should be using virus protection on your Apple computer, be it an iMac, Macbook Pro, Mac Pro or Macbook Air. The other important puzzle piece: A good backup. It’s always best to keep from being hit with malware in the first place, but in case you do get hit it’s extremely important to have a solid off-site backup available. A simple USB Hard Drive attached to your computer is not as ransomware can simply lock the files stored there as well. [Read more…]
Business etiquette for working in an office environment is well established: show up on time, wear pants, put your name on your lunch in the fridge – those kinds of things. But working from home is a new thing for many people and businesses. These tips for business etiquette for remote work support professionalism. [Read more…]
Many families today have a shared home computer to help with day-to-day activities. A teen can search for a job and stream shows. A parent can check work emails, pay household bills, and shop online. A youngster can play an educational game to buy Mom or Dad a few minutes of peace. Yet with COVID-19 sending so many people home to work, the shared computer is getting a lot more use. [Read more…]
Quarantine doesn’t have to mean you’re on your own all the time. Sure, back in the days of the plague or pox, people were stuck. But now, we have the technology to let us remain connected even while social distancing. Here’s a roundup of top options for fun with family and friends. [Read more…]
Your internet used to meet your needs. You could check social media and stream a TV show whenever you wanted without trouble. Now, since working from home, you’re finding your internet service more frustrating: it’s too slow when you want to send and receive large work files, or erratic when you take part in video meetings. Here’s help. [Read more…]
