One on One Computer Consultants
December 2008 eNewsletter

New Computer Technologies and General Information

Windows XP to stick around until June 2009

Microsoft has submitted to the bombardment of requests from custom PC makers to allow shipment of the Windows XP operating system until June 30, 2009. Windows XP shipments to the PC makers was going to end December 31, 2008, but with so many consumers requesting the “older” operating system, custom PC makers had no choice to to approach Microsoft with their demands. My feeling is that the “old” operating system will be around longer than the proposed, “set in stone” deadline.

Virus/Spyware/Spam Warning & Updates

PSW.OnlineGames.BKJY Trojan Warning

This Trojan virus is downloaded from on line game web sites, as the name implies. Once loaded on a computer, the Trojan will monitor keystrokes, including passwords. The gathered information is then sent to the creators of the virus so that you personal information and user habits. Most of the major anti-virus programs will detect and remove this virus, if their anti-virus databases are up to date.

"Free" Software Downloads

PCDecrapifier

Did you receive or buy a new PC for the holidays? What a great present until you start it up to find all of the preloaded trial and generally “crap” software installed. Luckily for us, there is a “free” program (for personal use) that keeps a regularly updated database of the programs that are being pre-loaded on new PCs. The program can be used to clean off your new computer. The main advantage is the performance increase you will get when you stop all of the “crap” from loading at startup. Go to: ( http://www.pcdecrapifier.com/download )

Tips & Tricks

Secure Passwords

I wish that I could take credit for this trick, but it came as a suggestion from a government agency. When creating a secure password, it should contain; Capital letters, small case letters, numbers, and symbols. The most difficult part is remembering the password after you create it. My solution was to use the first letter of each word in my favorite song, capitalizing the first letter in the password, then adding my ATM PIN number to the last part of the password. What about the symbols? As I type in the last two number of my 4 number ATM PIN, I hold down the shift key. How does it work? “Can’t you hear me knockin’, by the Rolling Stones and a PIN like 1234, turns out to be Cyhmk12#$. (A very secure password).

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