HELP is here
It is difficult to believe that a few short years ago you could go almost anywhere on the Internet without problem. Now, touch the wrong web site or open the wrong email and bang! your computer can be worthless.
If you have spyware, pop-ups, search hijacks, (or worse) check out the spyware resources below.
Perhaps you have some unusual or difficult computer problem that you just cannot figure out. Or, you need a hardware, software, or network upgrade but cannot find the time to do it yourself or don't know how. By all means, give me a call or drop me an e-mail and we will work with you to get your problem solved ASAP!
Spyware Resources
This is a short list of some of our favorite spyware resources.
Be aware that there are "fake" spyware programs out there. Most are just frauds - saying they find spyware when they don't or telling you there is no spyware when there is.
The only programs we recommend (and they are highly rated by legitimate authorities on the subject) are:
- Anti-Spy Ware programs:
- Fire Wall software:
We have no financial relationship with the vendors above other than as satisfied customers.
These programs, as good as they are, are not enough. The spyware industry comes up with new varieties and variations each day. Now, for finding and destroying the real tough ones, you need HijackThis! It's a program that tells you a lot and allows you to fix a lot of problems. Here's where the going gets tough. If you don't know about BHOs, don't feel comfortable with changing registry entries, and are unfamiliar with booting your computer in "safe-mode" then you'd better be VERY CAREFUL. You can render your computer unusable and even suffer a data loss.
Anti-Virus Resources
Although viruses seem to have taken a back seat to spyware, don't be fooled. It is still important to be on your guard with viruses and other email-transmitted problems.
We've used the free version of both of these programs with great success:
Other Security Related Resources
If you don't have some type of firewall, either software or hardware, between your computer and the Internet then stop reading this and go disconnect the computer from the Internet RIGHT NOW! I MEAN IT! Done? Good! Now, go get a firewall and put it in place (or call me and I'll do it for you or give you a quote.) Either way, a firewall is 100% required from now on. No exceptions.
Safety Tips:
Here are some things to keep in mind if you are concerned about keeping your computer reasonably safe while using the Internet:
- Install anti-virus software on your computer and keep it updated.
- Update your operating system in a timely fashion. This means running Windows Update at least once a week or put it on auto-update.
- Have a firewall. Don't turn it off.
- Do not open an email message that you have ANY suspicion about. Even if it comes from somebody you know.
- Do not download or install unknown music file sharing programs. Most sites that distribute these programs are now typically infested with spyware. The same goes for most Internet "games". If in doubt, do a Google search for the program in question and see what others are saying about it. The one notable exception to this is Apple's I-Tunes program. I use it and it's great.
Here is my recommendation for children using a computer the Internet
I tell my children:
- There is no free music on the Internet!
- There are no free screensavers on the Internet!
- There are no free games on the Internet!
I also instruct them to never click on "yes" for any pop-up or dialog box that offers to install something on the computer unless a knowledgeable parent approves it.