How to Maintain Your Computer (Without Lifting a Finger!)

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For a device that's supposed to make life easier, computers sure do involve a lot of work! There's so much to keep track of that it's no wonder most people push ahead and forget the routine maintenance until something breaks. Of course, the problem with being reactive is the damage is already done. Photos and files get lost forever in a crash and information gets stolen in a hack...by then it's far too late. It's a bit like closing the gate after the horses have already fled. This is where proactive people come out on top. Thousands upon thousands of homes around the world are using some form of managed services to put computer problems firmly behind them. It's a done-for-you maintenance program we offer called Proactive Maintenance Plan and here's why it's the best choice.

Maintain Your Computer

You're always up to date

It seems like every second day there's some new and urgent update waiting to be installed. Whether they're patching security flaws or adding new features, they seem endless. Sometimes, it goes beyond inconvenient, it gets overwhelming! Even if they do install automatically, they tend to do it at the worst possible moment, leaving you to wait up to 30 minutes when all you wanted to do was quickly check your email. Using our special managed services software, we can make sure your computer's updates are all finished and done - before you sit down to use your computer. As part of the service, we also make sure all updates are compatible not just with your hardware, but also with your other software. After all, updates are supposed to make your experience more secure and more enjoyable!

You've got super antivirus protection

The best antivirus protection is one that's up-to-date and running, yet you'd be surprised how many people switch it off or never let it update. While you might be in the habit of scanning files and browsing safely, others in your home might not have the same priorities. Using our Proactive Maintenance Plan ensures your antivirus protection is always running and dealing with any viruses it finds. As soon as a new virus becomes known, we make sure your system is actively protected against it. We also monitor for cyberattacks and can alert you before they become a problem.

Your hardware stays healthy

While a reactive person is always suddenly stuck without a computer when hardware fails, proactive people with managed services have already had the problem fixed. Our special software monitors the health of your hardware (i.e. hard drive, looking for early warning signs of failure, etc.). If detected, we can let you know in advance. This means you're able to get it repaired at your convenience, making sure no files are lost and no other hardware is damaged in a domino failure.

You never miss a backup

The worst part of a crash or hack isn't the financial cost, it's losing your files forever. Many people have their entire collection of photos stored on their computer, plus important family files, most of which can never be replaced or recreated. Whether it's a report just created, a recipe handed down for generations or a novel you've been working on for longer than you'd care to admit, our Proactive Maintenance Plan ensures your backup is working correctly. Backed up files are ready to go when you are, and losing files to corruption, failure or theft is a thing of the past.

Support is a phone call away

Just got a new printer and it won't play nice? Got a weird error popping up? Your laptop won't talk to the WiFi? We can help with whatever technology issue has been bugging you and wasting your time. No nonsense advice is just a phone call away, and our team can remotely connect to diagnose and fix many problems. This means you can likely skip the cord shuffle and caring your computer into the shop, and still get your most pressing computer issues fixed.

You're always optimized

Whether your computer is actively playing up or not, our monitoring service can keep in touch with your event logs, services and processes and look out for anything that needs correction. This means we're effectively stopping problems before they get to you, making sure that when you sit down to use your computer, it's doing exactly what you want.

Put computer problems behind you

Contact us today and ask for a Proactive Maintenance Plan!

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Computer Broken? Watch Us Fix it – LIVE!

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When your computer is playing up or driving you crazy, the absolute last thing you want to do is lug it down to the local repair shop. So many cables. So many connections. And why is it suddenly so heavy? It's stressful just thinking about it! Fortunately, tech support has come a long way in recent years and you now have another option: remote access support.

Computer Broken? Watch Us Fix It - LIVE!

Just like it sounds, one of our experts will connect to your computer through the internet and fix the problem. You can even watch the entire process on the screen or step away and we'll call you when the problem is fixed. As long as the computer starts and has a working internet connection, you can simply put your feet up and watch the show! Remote support isn't just a new technology that let's you stay in your PJs for longer, it's a better way to approach a huge range of issues, with some pretty great benefits.

High fix rate: While it does sound impossibly futuristic, around 90% of problems can be solved this way, quickly and efficiently. We're sure you've been on the frustrating end of a call-center style support session at least once and can guarantee - remote support is nothing like that. Our technicians don't ask you to click a hundred buttons and read the screen back, they simply identify the issue and fix it for you there and then.

Location independent: For some people, the best part of remote support is that it doesn't matter where YOU are either. You could be away on holiday with your laptop, at home with the kids, or under 6 foot of snow in a record-breaking blizzard, and our remote techs can still fix your computer. Fortunately, your computer loves staying where it is. They're actually more likely to have issue when they're moved around a lot, so this is the perfect solution. There's no need to pack anything up, drive across town to drop off and then back again for pickup a week later. Our technicians know you have better things to do, and will support you remotely in any way they can.

Complete privacy: Remember how you can watch the technicians move things around the screen? There's no better way to know your privacy is protected than to see exactly what's happening. Unless they've identified them as the issue, our experts won't go anywhere near your private files and photos. You don't even need to move them to a folder marked "private", our technicians are laser-focused on getting you going again and that's all.

You're in control: Our technicians can't access your system unless you allow us too. In fact, we need you to download a special piece of software before our technicians can do anything. Then we call via phone to arrange a time for us to access the computer. If you don't want to watch and just want it done, perhaps you're at work, we can do that too. We're here to get your computer issues solved, on your terms.

Next time your computer is misbehaving, or you need help setting up a new device or program, let us know. We'll be able to jump in and get your system moving again without you leaving the house. Our remote support technicians can save you a lot of time and money, not to mention frustration. It's never been easier to get expert help for your computer issues.

Ready to get the support you need?

Contact us today!

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5 Signs Your Computer is Crying Out for Repair

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It's pretty obvious when your computer is already broken, but how do you know when it's about to break? Even before it falls into a heap and refuses to turn on, or flashes big messages about how your files are now encrypted, you'll be given multiple hints that something is wrong. Here are the common signs your computer needs repair, sooner rather than later.

5 Signs Your Computer is Crying Out for Repair

  1. It's running slow. Most people assume their computer is running slow because it's getting older, but it could actually be a variety of reasons. A program behaving badly, a virus, overheating or even a failing hard drive can all cause a massive slow down. You might only notice it when booting up or stating a program, or the problem may have taken hold to the extent that even moving your mouse becomes torture. Sometimes the slow speed is simply due to some newer software that your hardware can't keep up with.
  2. Your system is running hot. A very common sign with laptops, running hot can be both the sign and cause of damage. Computers have fans to blow out hot air so they can cool off their internal components. At the same time, fresh air is drawn in through vents to create an effective cooling system. Unfortunately, just about every vent in a computer can quickly become clogged with dust and pet fur, essentially choking off the circulation and leaving components to overheat. Desktop computers have more space inside to circulate air, but you'll still need to keep their vents clear. You'll know your computer is running too hot if your system shuts down frequently (safety cutout), the fan is working serious overtime, or your laptop is too hot to use on your lap.
  3. Blue Screens of Death are everywhere. A classic Windows error, this is quite literally a blue screen that covers your view. The system will still be running, but something has gone wrong. You'll be shown some text and an error code, often with Windows suggesting a restart. If a restart fixes your problem, perhaps something didn't load properly at boot up and your computer had a glitch. It's rare, but it happens. If you're getting blue screens all the time though, that's a sign a hardware or software problem needs to be resolved. Your computer will continue to give blue screen errors more and more frequently, so it's best to take action as soon as you know something is wrong.
  4. It's making strange noises. Your computer has a number of moving parts. You'll know by now which noises it normally makes, from the startup beep to the whirring fan. When your computer starts to make extra noises...that's when things get interesting. Fans can wear down and screech or grind, hard drives can start clicking, and in emergency cases, you might even hear a zapping noise. None of those are good! Whenever you notice a strange noise, remember your computer parts are all designed to work together and one problem could quickly become many if left unchecked.
  5. It crashes and freezes. If your computer is crashing randomly, restarting without you, or freezing up completely, it's a sure sign there's a problem. As annoying as it might be, your computer isn't doing this to drive you crazy - it just feels that way! You might notice it's showing other signs from this list too because crashing and freezing are what happens when something isn't just wrong, it's terribly wrong. The problem could be almost anything, hardware and software both, but it's always fixable. This is simply your computer's final way of crying out for repair, desperately trying to get your attention and a little TLC.

Is your computer doing these things?

Let us fix it for you.  Contact us today and we will be happy to help!

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Are You in Need of Support?

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In the world of IT, problems happen. Computers crash, passwords are lost, email stops working, and the list goes on. And without proper technical support in place, these problems can bring your business to an abrupt – and potentially damaging – halt.

With Blue Lightning IT Service’s Help Desk, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that our certified technicians can quickly and efficiently resolve even your most complex technical problems.

Our Help Desk supports:

  • Microsoft and Apple desktop operating systems
  • Microsoft Office and leading third-party applications
  • E-mail applications and Web browsers
  • Hardware and network troubleshooting
  • Printer installation and support
  • Mobile phones and tablets
  • User administration
  • Desktop performance problems
  • Virus and malware infections

An Extension of our Remote Monitoring Solution

Not every support issue can be called a catastrophe…until it prevents you from being able to do your job. We’re here to help you stay ahead of the curve, so you can focus on growing your business – and to do so, we’ve adopted a proactive approach to network monitoring and IT maintenance.  

That’s why our help desk is a seamless extension of our remote monitoring platform. So when you call to report an issue, there’s a good chance we’re already aware of the problem you’re experiencing – and are actively working to resolve it.

Contact us today

We look forward to assisting you!

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Got a New Device? Here’s the Essential Tech Prep You Can’t Afford to Skip

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It's tons of fun getting a new device. Whether it's a new desktop, laptop or phone: the thrill of getting it home and opening the box is great. We know, we love technology too. It even has its own version of new car smell! Once you get it home though, there are a number of things that need to be done before it's really usable - beyond snapping it up with a new case or mousepad.

Essential Tech Prep You Can't Afford to Skip

The sellers like to say it's ready to use straight from the box - and it is - except not quite the way you need it to work. They'll all turn on, look for WiFi, and sure, you can type...but rather like when you buy a new fridge, simply turning it on isn't enough - it's still empty and you're still hungry. A few minutes now to prep your new device will save you time, stress, and quite possibly money.

Today, we're talking vital tech prep for new devices:

Security Updates and Fixes

From the factory to your hands, that device has been in the box for at least a month. In the world of security, that's an eternity. During that time on the shelf, new viruses have come out and new software weaknesses have been discovered. Fortunately, new updates to combat these problems were also created, they just haven't been downloaded to your device yet. We can make sure your essential software is up-to-date and set to stay that way. That way, you know your device is safe to go online.

Data Transfer from Old to New

Some people want to transfer everything from one device to another, others like to have a fresh start and keep the old device as a back. We can either transfer your data entirely or just the things you use. For computers, we can even turn your old hardware into an external drive that you can plug into your new computer and grab files as required.

Setting up Hardware

If your new device is a computer, you'll need to hook it up with other devices like a printer or webcam. These tasks that should be plug-and-play can sometimes send you loopy, especially when you've got a plug mismatch or incompatible drivers. We can help get you set up, with everything tested and working.

Setting up Email and Software

This is one people commonly forget and then struggle with. Email clients in particular, need special configuration to connect properly. Quite often, we find people are stuck only able to receive, with overflowing unsent mail that won't go anywhere! We'll get all your personal software and connections up and going.

Setting up the Network

While tapping in a WiFi password is easy enough, it doesn't mean your browsing is secure, or even as fast as it could possibly be. We can quickly determine which connectivity method will be best for your device and your needs, and hook you up with fast, robust security measures.

Lockdown Privacy & Permissions

Whether you have children and are looking to provide a safe online experience, files you'd prefer to keep private, or simply want to set up "profiles" for each user to have their own login, we can quickly get you new device configured to meet your needs.

We love to help

Contact us today and we'll help get your new device up and working.

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How to Stay Safe from Scams and Malware on Facebook

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At last count, Facebook has clocked up over 2.7 billion users, which makes the platform more attractive than ever for scammers and hackers. While you may be logging in to share your latest family photos or catch up with friends, the chances of accidentally triggering a scam or malware are increasing daily. Here's how to stay safe on Facebook and stop the spread.

Stay Safe from Scams and Malware on Facebook

Look out for freebies and surveys

Everybody loves a freebie and for the most part the competition posts on Facebook are legitimate. On the flip side though, when you see a giveaway for vouchers from a mega-store, alarm bells should ring. "Do this quick survey and we'll send you a $50 Amazon Voucher!" - it's too good to be true. Even one click can take you on a messy journey through the underbelly of the web, picking up trackers and malware at every stop and at the end, you're asked to share the post so your friends can get a voucher too...except nobody ever gets the reward.

Check your permissions with games and quizzes

Whenever you access a new game or quiz, you'll need to give permissions for it to access your Facebook profile. Most people click the okay button without any thought, but if you review the permissions you're giving, you'll often find they're asking for a massive amount of personal data: public profile, friend list, email address, birthday and newsfeed. Do they really need ALL this information? Sometimes the shakedown is from necessity, but sometimes the apps are preparing to launch attacks against you both on and off Facebook. For example, when you call your bank they ask certain questions like your full name, birthday and maybe which high school you went to. All that information is in your Facebook profile and now shared with your permission.

Don't friend people you don't know

Having lots of friends is always nice, but that friend accept could end up costing you. It might be someone pretending to know you, or a picture of a pretty girl to entice men (and vice versa). Once you friend them, they get access to everything your friends can see. In this case, it's more than the risk of someone knowing your personal data, you've just given them intimate access to your life. It's exactly how romance scams start, and there are even cases where the victim finds photos of their children circulating the internet.

If it's weird, forget it

It doesn't happen very often, but hackers find ways to take advantage of flaws in Facebook. A common hack that keeps popping up in various forms is to embed malware in a link. The virus then infects your machine and contacts all your friends with an enticing message, like asking whether a picture is of them. When the click to view the picture, the virus catches them and their friend list, and so on. Facebook is pretty good at staying on top of these flaws, but they need time to fix it. Just like if you got a weird email with an attachment from a friend, use that same level of scrutiny in your Facebook and don't open messages or links that seem out of place.

Need help securing your privacy?

Contact us today and we will be happy to assist.

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3 New Year’s Tech Resolutions You Should Actually Keep

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If your typical New Year's resolutions lasted about 30 seconds, you're not alone. Pledges to eat better, start running and learn how to juggle can be rebooted again next year easy enough. This year, we challenge you to think about your tech health with some resolutions you'll want to keep.

3 New Year's Tech Resolutions You Should Actually Keep

  1. No More Junk Mail - Whether you checked a box agreeing to get newsletters, or you have no idea how you got on that list, it's time to say goodbye. Start by emptying your mailbox to zero unread messages - no you don't have to read all that spam - you have permission to delete it unread. Let's face it, if you were going to read it, you would have done so already. Away it goes.
  2. Go Password Pro - With all these password leaks from LinkedIn, Facebook, and goodness knows who hasn't come forward, now's the time to get smart with your passwords. Because most people use the same passwords on every site, a single breach can be the hack that keeps on giving. You know how important it is to use different passwords for each site, but let's be real, that's a LOT of passwords to remember! Instead of writing them down, we recommend using a password manager like LastPass. It remembers all your various passwords for you, so all you need to know is the super-protected master password. Master passwords are kept encrypted on your system, not theirs, and two-factor authentication checks with you via text for all big changes.
  3. Backup. No Really, Backup - "I've been meaning to backup" is the cry of someone who just lost all of their photos. Good intentions don't count AT ALL in data security, because once the data is gone, it's gone. With new cloud backup options, there's no reason to put this off, because backup apps are now easier and more accessible than ever before. You can also backup to local drives, but this will take a little extra remembering on your part, as you'll want to have at least one drive that stays disconnected in case of viruses.

There you have it. Three New Year's resolutions you can easily keep, and that will make a real difference to your year. Opening your email will be a pleasure, you'll be a spectator only in any future password leaks, and your precious files will be safe against all manner of disaster. Feels better than any diet, doesn't it?

Stuck with any of this?

Let us help by contacting us today!

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Should I Upgrade or Buy a New Computer?

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Well, it depends - mostly on who you're asking! A department store salesman will always recommend a new one, but when you get down to the nitty gritty with a trained technician, you'll often discover you have more (and cheaper) options than you thought.

Should I Upgrade or Buy a New Computer

Start by taking stock of what you've got. Sometimes an upgrade simply isn't worth the trouble and it's painfully obvious. For example, if your car is 30 years old, demands a constant supply of special fuel and you can see the road whizzing by thanks to the "custom" holes in the floor...it's time to replace the rust-bucket! However, if your car is decently modern and in reasonably good condition but happens to stall at stop signs, a few quick fixes can be just what the mechanic ordered.

If your computer does need to be replaced, chances are you already know this. But if you're not sure and some days it could go either way, this will help. We've but together a walkthrough of the most common upgrades and the impact they'll have:

Video card upgrade: It might not be your computer that's getting old. Instead, games are getting more and more demanding. The days of stick-figure animations are gone and lifelike 3D is the new normal. With that improved experience comes a huge strain on your computer's resources. If you have a gamer in the house, you can often super-power your computer with a single component - a new video card. For hardcore gamers, it's actually a necessity, as some new games refuse to install if the video requirements aren't met. Love smooth animations and responsive gameplay? We know all the best games out now (and in the works) and can match you with the right video card.

Hard drive upgrade: New hard drives are a popular option, both in size and speed. Running out of space is less of a problem now, but speed is a major concern. You've no doubt sat there twiddling your thumbs and urging a file to hurry up and copy. Many upgrades are to an SSD (Solid State Drive) that has zero moving parts and can find/transfer data in a flash. They even make booting up lightning fast! And you'll have the choice of keeping your old drive for general storage, complete with all your existing data.

Memory/RAM upgrade: Some cheaper computers are underpowered from day 1. In truth, most of the ones in the department store could use at least an extra 4GB of oomph! Sometimes though, even a great computer falls behind as new applications come out and need more resources. Adding extra memory can revive your existing computer and set it up for a couple of more years of happiness.

Where to draw the line: There are other upgrades such as the CPU, which is basically the brains of the computer; and the motherboard that all the parts plug into...but once you're in that territory, it really is time to go for a full replacement. You'll save money by getting a computer that meets your needs and can grow with you.

Is your computer letting you down?

Contact us today and let us help you with upgrading or selecting a new computer.

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The CPU Flaw: Spectre and Meltdown Exposed and How You’ll Be Affected

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Spectre-Meltdown

Summary

Severe design flaws in modern CPUs were recently discovered and made public. These flaws put users and businesses alike at risk of attacks known as Spectre and Meltdown, where private data can be called up and stolen. Chip manufacturers including Intel and ARM have responded by working with software developers to correct the flaws, however these fixes are affecting computer performance. Discover exactly how this vulnerability works, how you’ll be impacted, and what you can do to protect your systems.

Spectre Meltdown In a Snapshot

What are Spectre and Meltdown?

In a bombshell report as we entered 2018, researchers revealed that nearly every computer chip is affected by a set of vulnerabilities called Spectre and Meltdown. The impact is so widespread because it’s not a software issue from one developer, it’s a flaw in the way computer chips were designed. All devices, including those made by Apple, Microsoft, Google, Amazon and others, share a similar chip structure. What’s more, the flaws extend to servers, including Amazon Web Servers and Google Cloud.

How They Work

Your computer’s CPU (its brain) does something called “speculative execution”. It’s part of the way processors were first designed, over 20 years ago. When your computer notices you do a task often, it tries to complete that task in the background, so it’s ready before you need it. This speeds up your experience and makes your work easier.

Imagine strolling into your local coffee shop where they know your order is the same every day. Eventually, they anticipate that you’ll be arriving at 8am sharp and have your coffee ready on the counter. However, if you change your mind and decide to order something else, they’ll need to throw that coffee away. 

Your CPU is doing the same thing. It’s loading information like your credit card number or passwords, ready for you to do your usual tasks. If you change your routine and that information isn’t needed, your CPU throws it away. Just like at the coffee shop though, the trash doesn’t disappear immediately, so your credit card number and password are simply sitting there in a section of memory called the ‘cache’, waiting to be cleared away.

The Spectre vulnerability allows attackers to trick the processor into performing these speculative operations (loading up your private data), so that Meltdown can scoop it up from the trash.

How you'll be impacted

Developers are releasing emergency updates

Fortunately, this vulnerability isn’t easy to exploit, and there have been no known attacks as yet. However, when the researchers went public with their discovery, it also alerted hackers to an opportunity. For them to get access to your system at this level though, they would first need to infect your computer with malware. 

Most major companies such as Google, Apple and Microsoft were able to issue security updates before the flaw was announced. They’re working closely with Intel, ARM and AMD, the main chip manufacturers, to mitigate the problem via software.

  • Intel - According to Intel, they have “developed and [are] rapidly issuing updates for all types of Intel-based computer systems — including personal computers and servers — that render those systems immune from both exploits.”
  • Apple - An update for Safari is available and updates to iOS 11.2, macOS 10.13.2 and tvOS 11.2 have been released to defend against Meltdown. According to Apple statements, Apple Watch is not affected by either Meltdown or Spectre. Updates for older devices are not being released.
  • AMD - AMD initially advised their CPUs were not vulnerable at all, but have since acknowledged that Spectre is a potential threat to their systems and are working on a patch.
  • Microsoft - Microsoft was quick to release updates for Windows 7, Windows 8.1, Windows 10 and various Windows Server versions. Updates for older versions are not being released and are working on a patch.

Patches for unaffected chips from Nvidia, IBM and AMD are also being rolled out to ensure these systems don’t place others at risk.

Developers are releasing emergency updates

Windows 7 and 8 machines will be the most impacted. Windows 10 is safer from Spectre and Meltdown.

Recall how the flaw exists due to speculative execution, a process designed to speed up your computing experience? The patches and updates have been changing the way your CPU uses memory, essentially putting the brakes on this shortcut. Developers were aware that slowdowns would occur but aimed to keep the impact to a minimum.

According to Terry Myerson, Microsoft VP, you can expect the following impact:

  • Windows 10 with newer CPU:  Negligible
  • Windows 10 with older CPU performance:  Noticeable decrease in performance
  • Windows 7, 8 with older CPU performance:  Most noticeable decrease in performance
  • Windows Server (Any CPU):  Significant impact

It’s likely that further updates will be released to address these issues, however those with older CPUs or Operating Systems might find now is the time to upgrade.

How you can stay protected

Antivirus

As any attack will first need to come through malware such as viruses, be extra vigilant with your virus protection. Update your antivirus software regularly, and set your system to run full scans each week. Likewise, keep an eye out for phishing links that don’t look quite right.

Run all updates

While nobody likes the idea of their computer slowing down, not even a fraction, it’s better than having your credit card details or passwords stolen by a hacker. Be sure to run updates as soon as they are released.

Update firmware

Microsoft has advised that patches and updates aren’t the complete fix to the Spectre and Meltdown vulnerabilities, suggesting you also update your BIOS and firmware. As this can be a tricky process, we recommend that only trained technicians do this.

Upgrade your system

If your system is too old and didn’t receive an emergency update, you’ll need to upgrade. This might mean switching to a newer smartphone, faster CPU or supported operating system.

Where to now?

As dire as it all seems right now, this flaw has been around for over 20 years. The sky isn’t falling and there’s no reason to panic. Remember, there have been no known instances of a Spectre/Meltdown attack yet, the tech world is simply closing ranks against hackers to ensure your risk is minimized. Developers and manufacturers are working together to help protect your system, and so are we. You’re in good hands.

We can help keep you safe from Spectre/Meltdown.

Contact us today to discuss.  If you are not part of our protection plans, we can get you started today to keep your systems regularly protected.

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4 Simple Tips to Keep Your Internet Banking Safe

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Online banking has boomed in the past few years to become the new norm. Branches are out and apps are in. Half the time when you visit a branch, you're steered towards a computer for a DIY transaction - with optional assistance. But is internet banking really safe? You're always told to keep your financial details private, but now also to jump on board the online banking train - talk about a push/pull scenario! The good news is you CAN bank safely online with a few simple precautions.

Bank Safely Online

Always type in the website address

Many attackers will attempt to trick you into clicking a fake link to your bank website. Usually sent as a "phishing email", they'll claim there's a problem and ask you to click through to your bank and correct it ASAP. The link points to a fake website that looks almost exactly like your real bank site and is recording your private account info. You can avoid scams like this simply by accessing your bank by manually typing in the website or using a bookmark.

Avoid public computers and networks

Jumping onto a PC at the library or mall might seem like a quick and easy way to check your account, but public computers are often targeted by scammers. In just a few moments, they can install key loggers to record usernames, passwords and other private data, then site back as all future user details are emailed to them. The same problem applies with free, unsecured Wi-Fi. You're better off using an ATM or a data-enabled smartphone.

Use a strong password with two-factor authentication

Create a unique password for your online banking, something you've never used anywhere else. Mix up words, numbers and symbols to create a complex password that can't be guessed easily. Avoid giving attackers a head start with data they can find on Facebook, like kid's names, pet names, birthdates, etc. and really think outside the box. And of course, never write it down anywhere near your wallet, phone or computer. If remembering is likely to be an issue, you might like to consider a secure password manager app. Many banks will also help boost your security with two-factor authentication, sending random codes to your phone (or a special LCD device they provide) to verify any activity.

Check page security before entering data

Finally, take a micro-second to spot the small padlock icon before you enter any data. You're looking for a padlock appearing as part of the browser itself, not just an image on the webpage. It will be either in the bottom corner or next to the URL. The address will also start with httpS:// instead of http://. If you don't see these things, the page is NOT secure and you shouldn't log in.

Need some help securing your systems against scammers?

We can help.  Contact us today!

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