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
Category: Computer
Posts related to computer hardware and software
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
Cleaning an infected PC
Although written in 2013, this PC World article “When malware strikes: How to clean an infected PC” still is a useful reference for dealing with malware. You work hard to protect your PC from the malicious thugs of our digital world. You keep your antivirus program up to date. You avoid questionable Web sites. You… Continue reading Cleaning an infected PC