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Computer Repair San antonio-New Year’s Resolutions for Your Computer

January 9, 2019 by Jerry Stainthorpe

New Year’s Resolutions for Your Computer

Running the Best Security Software

Most computers today run at least some form of basic antivirus.  In the modern day however, threats have evolved to be more sophisticated, more damaging, and much more common.   Ransomware, malware, phishing, and zero-day attacks all work to attack unpatched systems without strong security.

Today, to keep up with increasing threats, you need a supplemental AV to add to Windows Defender.  A layered system means more than just virus scanning.  A comprehensive security package includes prevention, detection, and system monitoring at a minimum.   These layers work together to provide security many times stronger than a stand-alone system.

Reliable, up-to-date, security keeps you safe online.  It’s a resolution you simply can’t afford to skip.

Clean Up Files

Cleaning up unnecessary files is the number one way to gain additional storage space on a typical device.  It’s cost-effective without any extra hardware purchases.

Almost all computers have files hanging around from old software, data or applications they no longer need.  Just like tidying the spare room or de-cluttering the kitchen, clearing files off your desktop and organizing your emails will leave your computer feeling refreshed and new again.

Restart Your Computer

Fully shutting down a computer and rebooting can take time.  When you are watching the clock, waiting to start a task or get work done, it can feel like an eternity.  Most of us enjoy simply opening the lid or powering on the screen to have everything ready to run.

At times, a computer may not be fully restarted in weeks or even months.  Our poor habits can cause issues with running software and the operating system too. Hardware updates, security patches, and critical updates often wait for a reboot before they install.  Waiting too long can leave security flaws open and the system vulnerable to attack.

Merely performing a reboot every once in a while (we recommend weekly) can secure your system and help get rid of software problems.  Often updates prevent new issues from cropping up too.

Special Note: Just shutting down a computer using the shutdown button does not accomplish the same thing as a RESTART..

Keep Your Computer Away from Dust

Dust, hair, and household debris are one of the major causes of premature death for computers.  Fans, used to cool components, suck in house dust as well as the air they need.  This dust often clogs up the inside of the device and overheats internal components.

If possible, keep a tower PC off the carpet, don’t run your laptop sitting on the floor, blanket, or soft furnishings.  Cleaning out your device is as good a resolution as any, and there’s never a better time than now.

For a little help sticking to your digital new year resolutions and starting off on the right foot, give me a call today at 210-549-6477

Filed Under: Company News, Windows News Tagged With: 78209, 78217, 78233, 78247, 78261, backup, Computer Repair, Computer Setup, Cracked Screen, Data Backup, Free Estimates, Laptop Repair, Microsoft Registered Partner, Refurbished Computers, San Antonio, Virus Removal

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Computer Repair San Antonio-More Than A Virus, Common Malware to Watch Out For

December 2, 2018 by Jerry Stainthorpe

More Than A Virus, Common Malware to Watch Out For

The term “virus” is often used to describe many different types of infection a computer might have.  Virus, when used as a blanket term, can describe any number of potential computer programs. What these programs have in common are they are typically designed to cause damage, steal data, or spread across the network.

Malware describes software designed to act maliciously on a personal computer.  The name ‘malware’ is a shorthand for ‘malicious software’ and describes exactly what it is. A computer virus is a single type of malware that can cause harm to your PC, but it is only one of many.

Adware

Short for advertising-supported software, adware is a type of malware that delivers advertisements to your computer.  These advertisements are often intrusive, irritating, and often designed to trick you into clicking something you don’t want. A common example of malware is pop-up ads that appear on many websites and mobile applications.

Adware often comes bundled with “free” versions of software that uses this intrusive advertising to make up costs.  Commonly it is installed without the user’s knowledge and made excessively difficult to remove.

Spyware

Spyware is designed to spy on the user’s activity without their knowledge or consent.  Often installed in the background, spyware can collect keyboard input, harvest data from the computer, monitor web activity and more.

Spyware typically requires installation to the computer. This is commonly done by tricking users into installing spyware themselves instead of the software or application that they thought they were getting. Victims of spyware are often be completely unaware of its presence until the data stolen is acted on in the form of fraudulent bank transactions or stolen online accounts.

Virus

In technical terms a computer virus is a form of malware that is installed inadvertently, causing damage to the user.  A typical virus may install a keylogger to capture passwords, logins, and bank information from the keyboard.  It might steal data, interrupt programs, and cause the computer to crash.

Modern virus programs commonly use your computers processing power and internet bandwidth to perform tasks remotely for hackers.  The first sign of this can be when the computer sounds like it is doing a lot of work when no programs should be running. A computer virus is often spread through installing unknown software or downloading attachments that contain more than they seem.

Ransomware

A particularly malicious variety of malware, known as ransomware, prevents the user from accessing their own files until a ransom is paid.  Files within the system are often encrypted with a password that won’t be revealed to the user until the full ransom is paid.

Instead of accessing the computer as normal, the user is presented with a screen which details the contact and payment information required to access their data again.

Ransomware is typically downloaded through malicious file attachments, email, or a vulnerability in the computer system.

Worm

Among the most common type of malware today is the computer worm.  Worms spread across computer networks by exploiting vulnerabilities within the operating system.  Often these programs cause harm to their host networks by consuming large amounts of network bandwidth, overloading computers, and using up all the available resources.

One of the key differences between worms and a regular virus is its ability to make copies of itself and spread independently.  A virus must rely on human activity to run a program or open a malicious attachment; worms can simply spread over the network without human intervention.

If you would like us to make sure your systems stay safe from malware, give us a call at 210-549-6477.

Filed Under: E-mail, Ransomware, Security Alerts Tagged With: 78154, 78209, 78216, 78217, 78218, 78233, 78247, 78258, 78261, 78284, backup, Computer Repair, Computer Setup, Cracked Screen, Free Estimates, Laptop Repair, Malwarebytes, PC Repair, Refurbished Computers, San Antonio, Virus Removal

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Don’t unplug your Computer to Shut It Down!-Computer Repair San Antonio

January 31, 2018 by Jerry Stainthorpe

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.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Repair, Security Alerts, Software, Windows News Tagged With: 78209, 78216, 78217, 78233, 78247, 78261, Computer Repair, Computer Setup, Data Backup, Free Estimates, Laptop Repair, Malwarebytes Authorized Reseller, San Antonio, Virus Removal

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If you have been scammed by Fake Tech support follow this advice-Computer Repair San Antonio

January 31, 2018 by Jerry Stainthorpe

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).

Credt: https://support.malwarebytes.com/docs/DOC-1905

Filed Under: Ransomware, Scam, Scammers, Security Alerts Tagged With: 78217, 78233, 78247, Computer Repair, Data Backup, Free Estimates, Malwarebytes Authorized Reseller, Microsoft Registered Partner, San Antonio, Solid State Drive Upgrade, Virus Removal

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HP Recalls Batteries for Notebook Computers and Mobile Workstations Due to Fire and Burn Hazards-Computer Repair San Antonio

January 6, 2018 by Jerry Stainthorpe

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

Filed Under: Battery Recall, Company News, Repair, Security Alerts Tagged With: 78154, 78209, 78216, 78217, 78218, 78233, 78239, 78247, 78261, Computer Repair, Computer Setup, Data Backup, Free Estimates, Laptop Repair, Laptop Screen Replacment, Microsoft Registered Partner, PC Repair, Refurbished Computers, Virus Removal

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Computer Repair in San Antonio-SAPC Upgrades

January 3, 2018 by Jerry Stainthorpe

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
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  • Microsoft Registered Partner
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SAPC Upgrades offers many quality computer repair services.

Dell,HP,Lenovo,Acer,Sony,Toshiba,ASUS

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Computer repair San Antonio Texas

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Filed Under: Company News, Online Shopping, Ransomware, Repair Tagged With: 78154, 78209, 78216, 78217, 78218, 78233, 78239, 78247, 78261, Computer Repair, Computer Setup, Data Backup, Free Estimates, Laptop Repair, Laptop Screen Replacment, Microsoft Registered Partner, PC Repair, Refurbished Computers, Solid State Drive Upgrade, Virus Removal

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Animated Map of How Tens of Thousands of Computers Were Infected With Ransomware

May 13, 2017 by Jerry Stainthorpe

https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2017/05/12/world/europe/wannacry-ransomware-map.html

Filed Under: Company News, Ransomware, Scam, Scammers, Security Alerts, Software, Windows News Tagged With: 78154, 78209, 78216, 78217, 78218, 78233, 78239, 78247, 78261, Computer Repair, Data Backup, Free Estimates, Malwarebytes Authorized Reseller, Microsoft Registered Partner, Ransomware, San Antonio, Virus Removal

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SPECIAL BULLETIN

May 13, 2017 by Jerry Stainthorpe

SPECIAL BULLETIN
Malwarebytes www.malwarebytes.com

Dear ,

A massive ransomware attack spread across the globe today, locking up thousands of hospital, telecommunications, and utilities systems in nearly 100 countries. The attack used data stolen from the NSA to exploit vulnerabilities in Microsoft Windows and deliver the WanaCrypt0r ransomware. The demand was for $300 per PC.

While the ransomware was first detected wreaking havoc in emergency rooms and doctors’ offices in the UK, the infection quickly spread worldwide, including to the US.

We’re alerting you to reassure you that if you’re currently using the premium version (or the premium trial) of Malwarebytes with real-time protection turned on, you are protected from this threat. Our premium technology blocks the WanaCrypt0r ransomware before it can encrypt your files. (The free version of Malwarebytes, however, does not protect you against WanaCrypt0r. To see which version you have, open up your Malwarebytes software and look for the version name at the top of the window.) Learn more about Malwarebytes

If you’re not currently using the premium version of Malwarebytes, we recommend that you update your Microsoft Windows software immediately. Microsoft released a patch for this vulnerability in March, but many users haven’t updated, leaving their computers open to this attack.

Here at Malwarebytes, we pledge to keep you protected and informed about the latest issues. Your peace of mind is our number one priority.

Sincerely,

The Malwarebytes team
P.S. Learn more about this threat here.

Filed Under: Company News, E-mail, Ransomware, Scam, Scammers, Security Alerts, Windows News Tagged With: 78154, 78209, 78216, 78217, 78218, 78233, 78247, 78261, 78284, Computer Repair, Data Backup, Free Estimates, Malwarebytes Authorized Reseller, Microsoft Registered Partner, PC Repair, Ransomware, Refurbished Computers, San Antonio, Virus Removal

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Massive Global Ransomware Attack Underway, Patch Available

May 12, 2017 by Jerry Stainthorpe

This is a public service security announcement for all users of computers running any version of Windows.

We have confirmed that a serious virulent ransomware threat known as WannaCrypt0r/WannaCry has affected Windows computers on shared networks in at least 74 countries worldwide, with 57,000 reported individual cases being affected. And according to the analysis team at Kaspersky Lab, that number is growing fast.

Once one computer on a network is affected, the malware infection easily spreads to other Windows computers on the same network, shutting down entire government agencies and national infrastructure companies. Hospitals across the UK were being forced to divert patients and ambulance routes as of Friday afternoon, and several utility companies across Europe reported infection across their computer networks according to BBC News.

What Is Ransomware?

Ransomware is a kind of malicious script or software that installs itself on your computer without your knowledge. Once it’s installed and running, it will lock down your system and won’t allow you to access any files or programs on that computer. Usually, as in this current WannaCry exploit, it will alert you to the lockdown with an impossible-to-ignore pop-up screen which informs you that your computer is being held for ransom. To unlock your system and regain access to the computer being held hostage, the lock screen informs you that you must purchase an unlock tool or decryption key from the hacker.

Where Did This Threat Originate?

In this case, Microsoft has been aware of the vulnerability since March 2017, when it published a Security Bulletin covering the potential risk. According to the Spanish newspaper El Mundo, early indicators seem to point to the attack originating in China, but more information is needed.

How Can You Tell If Your Computer Is Infected?

The most obvious way to tell if your computer has been affected is if you are seeing a ransomware pop-up screen when you start up your computer. But because we don’t know how long the malware sits on your computer or network, not seeing this pop-up isn’t necessarily an indication that you haven’t been infected. The bottom line: if your Windows computer has connected to a shared network, such as those found in schools, public places, cafes and businesses, and you don’t have complete control over every computer on that network and haven’t been keeping Windows up-to-date, your computer may be infected.

How to Protect Yourself From the Vulnerability

According to Microsoft a fix for this vulnerability was released on March 14th for all affected versions of Windows. If you are running Windows and have automatic updates enabled you should be okay. If you don’t and haven’t updated recently you should update to the most recently released version immediately. It is important to note that unsupported versions of Windows, like XP, did not receive this security update. Those systems should either be isolated or shut down.

Please pass this along to your friends and family. Those that are less technical may not have updates auto-enabled, and may need a helping hand updating their operating system.

Filed Under: Company News, E-mail, Ransomware, Repair, Scam, Scammers, Security Alerts, Software, Windows News Tagged With: 78217, 78218, 78233, 78261, 78284, Computer Repair, Data Backup, Free Estimates, Laptop Repair, Laptop Screen Replacment, Malwarebytes Authorized Reseller, Microsoft Registered Partner, PC Repair, Ransomware, Refurbished Computers, San Antonio, Virus Removal

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Massive Ransomware attack going worldwide.

May 12, 2017 by Jerry Stainthorpe

Massive Ransomware Outbreak

We have an update on this outbreak here. The ransomware is using an NSA exploit leaked by The Shadow Brokers, and has made tens of thousands of victims worldwide, including the Russian Interior Ministry, Chinese universities, Hungarian telcos, FedEx branches, and more. Original article below.

A ransomware outbreak is wreaking havoc all over the world, but especially in Spain, where Telefonica — one of the country’s biggest telecommunications companies — has fallen victim, and its IT staff is desperately telling employees to shut down computers and VPN connections in order to limit the ransomware’s reach.

The culprit for these attacks is v2.0 of the WCry ransomware, also known as WannaCry or WanaCrypt0r ransomware. For those affected, you can discuss this ransomware and receive support in the dedicated WanaCrypt0r & Wana Decrypt0r Help & Support Topic.

WCry ransomware explodes in massive distribution wave

Version 1.0 of this ransomware was discovered by Malwarebytes researcher S!Ri on February 10 and then spotted in a brief campaign on March 25 by GData security researcher Karsten Hahn.

Version 2.0 was detected for the first time around four hours ago by independent security researcher MalwareHunter. The security researcher says the ransomware came out of nowhere and started spreading like wildfire.

In these first four hours, WCry 2.0 made more victims than Jaff, a ransomware spotted this week distributed via the Necurs botnet, the former home of the Locky ransomware. In numbers, in just four hours WCry made 1.5 times more victims than Jaff did all week.

Currently, researchers weren’t able to pinpoint the exact origin of the WCry distribution campaign. At the moment, it could be from malvertising, exploit kits, email spam, or hand-cranked RDP attacks.

Source  https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/telefonica-tells-employees-to-shut-down-computers-amid-massive-ransomware-outbreak/

Filed Under: Company News, E-mail, Repair, Scam, Scammers, Security Alerts, Windows News Tagged With: 78217, 78233, 78239, 78247, 78261, Computer Repair, Computer Setup, Free Estimates, Malwarebytes Authorized Reseller, Microsoft Registered Partner, Virus Removal

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