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Computer Repair San Antonio-More Than A Virus, Common Malware to Watch Out For
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Computer Repair San Antonio-Refurbished Computers Save You a Bunch (and Get You a Better System)
How Refurbished Computers Save You a Bunch (and Get You a Better System)
Refurbished computers are almost like an insider secret – you can get great system specs for a fraction of the price. It’s how many families are meeting their back to school needs and upgrading their old systems, complete with warranty.
There’s one hot tip these people know: a refurb is NOT the same as used. You’re right to avoid those 2nd hand computers you see on Craigslist or Gumtree because there’s a reason that person is selling it! It’s probably slowed to a crawl, making weird noises or flat out broken in a way you’d never discover until too late. Refurbished computers are the complete opposite. They’re computers that have been given a new life, usually with a comprehensive repair, or sometimes they’re brand-new computers that were returned with a small problem like a hard drive failure, so we swap it out and sell it at bargain prices. Occasionally, the computer was even returned simply because the buyer changed their mind, but it’s still essentially brand-new (it might still be in the box!).
Quite often, refurbished computers start their life as business machines, built to the latest specs with business-grade components. When the budget or lease says ‘replace the computers’, that’s what the business does, whether the computers need it or not. There’s nothing wrong with them and they’ve likely been babysat by a corporate IT department who kept them in perfect condition every day. These are great machines that are still plenty fast for home use, both desktops and laptops. Plus, because business-grade components are more durable than the consumer ones, the entire system has been built to last longer and perform better, often up to several years without a problem. Rather than send these impressive machines to landfill, we check and replace necessary components and re-install a clean operating system. Next, we put them through a stack of verification tests, then pack them up ready for their new home. When you talk to us about buying one, we’ll always make sure you get a system that not only keeps up with your needs now, but gives you breathing space for the next few years too.
What are the benefits?
- You save a LOT of money: You get yourself a great computer that’s been set up and checked over by an expert technician, for significantly less than the cost of buying new. Add in the fact that when you score a refurbished business computer you’re also getting more durable, higher-quality components that will last you for years longer than the off-the-shelf consumer model, it’s a clear win. We always recommend that when you see a refurbished deal that’s got you smiling, you act fast – it won’t sit around waiting for you!
- Covered by warranty: A warranty is always included with our refurbished computers, giving you value plus peace of mind. It’s your guarantee that buying refurbished was a great decision. Problems are extremely rare since your computer has been through stringent checks, but if anything pops up that’s giving you trouble, we’ll fix it fast. Forget the delays and hoop jumping you might get with your other warranties, we stand by ours with rapid action.
- You’re saving the environment: Fewer machines end up in landfill and fewer resources are used for unnecessary manufacturing. When you consider each computer requires a certain amount of precious metals to be mined, plastics to be created, packaging created from multiple materials and all the associated flow on effects of shipping, refurbishment is the right choice for the future. While you might not personally see the environmental impact of your decision to buy refurbished, rest assured the planet appreciates it!
Are they reliable?
Some people think that refurbished computers are more likely to break, when in truth, in some cases they’re actually more reliable than brand new. Manufacturers have an expected failure rate, a percentage of computers that go straight from the factory to buyers who discover their expensive new system is dead-on-arrival or breaks within weeks. A refurbished computer has already stood the test of time and it performed without missing a beat. By the time it’s gone through our checks and repairs (both required and pre-emptive), a refurbished computer is better than new.
If you need a better computer on a tight budget, give us a call at 210-549-6477.
Don’t unplug your Computer to Shut It Down!-Computer Repair San Antonio
Can I Just Unplug My Computer to Shut It Down?
You may damage your computer.
By pulling the plug or forcing a power-off by holding down the power button, you risk corrupting data on your hard drive and damaging hardware.
I’m not sure what kinds of problems you’re having with the power button, but even that needs to be used correctly, or you could end up with the very problems you’re seeing.
If you have been scammed by Fake Tech support follow this advice-Computer Repair San Antonio
1.Report the scam
In the US: File a complaint (FTC) | More information about online fraud
In Canada: Contact Law Enforcement
In the UK: Report fraud | Report cold call (cold calls are illegal in the UK)
In Australia: Report a scam | Report telemarketing abuse
2.Report misleading ads
“TrustInAds.org comprises a group of Internet industry leaders that have come together to work toward a common goal: Protect people from malicious online advertisements and deceptive practices.” Report misleading ads here.
3.Shut down their remote software account
Write down the TeamViewer ID (9-digit code) and send it to TeamViewer’s support (they can later on block people/companies with that information)
LogMeIn: Report abuse
4.Spread the word
You can raise awareness by letting your friends, family, and other acquaintances know what happened to you. Although this may be an embarrassing experience if you fell victim to these scams, educating the public will help someone caught in a similar situation and deter further scam attempts.
If the scammers represent themselves as working with or for Malwarebytes, please make sure to contact Malwarebytes support – we are actively working to combat these scammers. Any information you can provide about these scammers will help us prevent those scammers from targeting other people.
If you already paid:
Contact your financial institution/credit card company to reverse the charges and keep an eye out for future unwanted charges.
If you gave them personal information such as date of birth, Social Security Number, full address, name and maiden name you may want to consult the FTC’s website and report identity theft.
If you have been contacted by a company that you think may be attempting to scam you, please see the following list of confirmed scammers (please make sure to click on the “Tech Support Blacklist” link for the up-to-date list).
HP Recalls Batteries for Notebook Computers and Mobile Workstations Due to Fire and Burn Hazards-Computer Repair San Antonio
HP Recalls Batteries for Notebook Computers and Mobile Workstations Due to Fire and Burn Hazards
Consumer Contact:
HP toll-free at 888-202-4320 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or online at www.HP.com/go/batteryprogram2018 or www.hp.com and click “Recalls” for more information.
Description:
This recall involves lithium-ion batteries for HP Notebook computers and mobile workstations. The batteries were shipped with or sold as accessories for HP ProBooks (64x G2 and G3 series, 65x G2 and G3 series), HPx360 310 G2, HP Envy m6, HP Pavilion x360, HP 11, HP ZBook (17 G3, 17 G4, and Studio G3) Mobile Workstations. The batteries were also sold as accessories or replacement batteries for the HP ZBook Studio G4 mobile workstation or for any of the products listed above.
Remedy:
Consumers should immediately visit www.HP.com/go/batteryprogram2018 to see if their battery is included in the recall and for instructions on how to enable “Battery Safety Mode” if their battery is included in the recall. The website provides consumers instructions on how to initiate the validation utility to check their battery and what to download if their battery is included in the recall. These batteries are not customer-replaceable. HP will provide free battery replacement services by an authorized technician.
Incidents/Injuries:
HP has received eight reports of battery packs overheating, melting, or charring, including three reports of property damage totaling $4,500 with one report of a minor injury involving a first degree burn to the hand.
Sold At:
Best Buy and other stores and authorized dealers nationwide and online at www.Amazon.com, www.hp.com and other websites. The batteries were shipped in notebook computers and mobile workstations sold from December 2015 through December 2017 for between $300 and $4,000. The batteries were also sold separately for between $50 and $90.
Importer(s):
HP Inc., of Palo Alto, Calif.
Manufactured In:
China
Recall number:
18-077
Windows Meltdown-Spectre fix: How to check if your AV is blocking Microsoft patch SAPC Upgrades
Windows Meltdown-Spectre fix: How to check if your AV is blocking Microsoft patch
Antivirus firms are gradually adding support for Microsoft’s Windows patch for the Meltdown and Spectre attack methods that affect most modern CPUs.
As Microsoft warned this week, it’s not delivering its January 3 Windows security updates to customers if they’re running third-party antivirus, unless the AV is confirmed to be compatible with it.
Microsoft’s testing found some antivirus products were producing errors by making unsupported calls into Windows kernel memory, resulting in blue screen of death (BSOD) errors.
Third-party Windows antivirus products need to support Microsoft’s security update and set a Windows registry key for customers to receive the update via Windows Update.
To make matters more confusing, only some antivirus vendors are actually doing both, while others require admins to set the registry key themselves, using Microsoft’s instructions. Additionally, some antivirus companies haven’t completed compatibility testing.
Microsoft hasn’t said which antivirus products are compatible beyond its own Windows Defender and Microsoft Security Essentials. However, security researcher Kevin Beaumont has created a public spreadsheet that may help IT admins prepare for installing Microsoft’s mitigations for the attack techniques that affect CPUs from Intel, AMD and Arm, albeit to differing degrees.
Call 210-549-6477 with questions
Laptop Repair in San Antonio Texas-SAPC Upgrades
If you are looking for the best Laptop Repair in San Antonio Texas and surrounding areas like Live Oak, Converse, Windcrest, Selma and Schertz consider SAPC Upgrades for affordable fair priced Laptop Repair
- Protecting your DATA is our #1 goal
- Fair Flat Rate in shop pricing
- Free Estimates
- Malwarebytes Authorized Reseller
- Friendly, honest communication, no “geek-speak”
- Professional, experienced technician
- Microsoft Registered Partner
- Locally owned and operated since 2003
- We strive to build lasting relationships with our customers
SAPC Upgrades offers many quality computer repair services.
Laptop Repair
- LCD Repair
- Laptop Repair
- Fast Support
- Honest Estimates
- Virus Removal
- Attention To Detail
- Malware Removal
- Data Backup
- Trojan Removal
Computer Repair San Antonio, Texas-SAPC Upgrades
Computer Repair in San Antonio-SAPC Upgrades
If you are looking for the best Computer Repair in San Antonio Texas and surrounding areas like Live Oak, Converse, Windcrest, Selma and Schertz consider SAPC Upgrades for affordable fair priced Computer Repair.
- Protecting your DATA is our #1 goal
- Fair Flat Rate in shop/remote pricing
- Free Estimates
- Malwarebytes Authorized Reseller
- Friendly, honest communication, no “geek-speak”
- Professional, experienced technician
- Microsoft Registered Partner
- Locally owned and operated since 2003
- We strive to build lasting relationships with our customers
SAPC Upgrades offers many quality computer repair services.
We Service
- LCD Repair
- Laptop Repair
- Fast Support
- Honest Estimates
- Virus Removal
- Attention To Detail
- Malware Removal
- Data Backup
- Trojan Removal
- North East San Antonio
Google 5 Star Rating
All You Need to Know About the WannaCrypt Ransomware
WannaCrypt is a ransomware program targeting Windows. On Friday, 12 May 2017, a large cyber-attack using it was launched, infecting more than 230,000 computers in 150 countries, demanding ransom payments in the cryptocurrency bitcoin in 28 languages.
It was being spread primarily by phishing emails (most commonly links or attachments) and as a worm on unpatched systems.
The attack affected Telefónica and several other large companies in Spain, as well as parts of Britain’s National Health Service, FedEx, Deutsche Bahn and LATAM Airlines. Other targets in at least 99 countries were also reported to have been attacked around the same time.
WannaCry is believed to use the EternalBlue exploit, which was developed by the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) to attack computers running Microsoft Windows operating systems. Although a patch to remove the underlying vulnerability for supported systems (Windows Vista and later operating systems) had been issued on 14 March 2017, delays in applying security updates and lack of support by Microsoft of legacy versions of Windows left many users vulnerable. Due to the scale of the attack, to deal with the unsupported Windows systems and to contain the spread of the ransomware, Microsoft has taken the unusual step of releasing updates for all older unsupported operating systems from Windows XP onwards.
Shortly after the attack began, a researcher found an effective kill switch, which prevented many new infections and allowed time to patch systems. This significantly slowed the spread. It was later reported that new versions that lack the kill switch were detected. Cyber security experts also warn of a second wave of the attack due to such variants and the beginning of the new workweek.
As always, be sure your Windows is up to date. XP users should consider upgrading where possible. The vulnerabilities for that operating system will not go away. Don’t click links in an email. Don’t open file attachments.
And, our longest running advice; back up regularly. You can back up to the cloud, or another drive. Programs like Macrium Reflect can Image your drive essentially restoring everything at any time.