Later this year, Microsoft plans to require users to verify that their copy of Windows is legitimate before the user can download and install the latest security patches and updates for any of the Microsoft software products. Microsoft plans to start the mandatory check in China, Norway, and the Czech Republic. It will offer a discounted version of the operating system, if found to be counterfeit. The program, known as Windows Genuine Advantage, also offers perks to those who verify their copy of Windows. Those who do can get free software as well as discounts on other Microsoft products and services. For more information, go to: ( http://www.microsoft.com/genuine/downloads/whyValidate.aspx ).
Phishing
The latest computer intrusions are e-mail messages requesting you to update your bank, eBay, PayPal, and etc. information. It’s just a fraud to get your valuable information, known as “Phishing”. Usually the link to update your information is embedded in the e-mail message making it difficult to tell where the web site is actually located. Is the site really in New York or is it in China? The newest scheme starts with an e-mail from a phony bank, claiming that a large amount of money has been placed into a new account opened in the recipient's name. A link to the bogus bank is included, along with an account number and a PIN. The message goes on to say that the recipient can transfer the money by logging into this account -- which shows a large balance -- and then by providing information about a real bank account to finalize the transfer.
Let’s hope that most of us are intelligent enough not to click on the link and fill in the private information. But, for those of you that want some additional protection, you can install a program like “fraud eliminator” which is a toolbar that works with Internet Explorer. The program will display the country of origin for a web site and automatically block access to known fraudulent sites. For more information, go to: ( http://www.fraudeliminator.com ).
If you’d like to report fraud attempts, go to: ( http://www.econsumer.gov/ ).
You can perform a variety of on-line security checks by going to the One on One Computer Consultants Home page at: ( http://www.1on1cc.com ) and clicking on the link to Symantec Security Check. You can perform a Virus Check, Security Check, and/or Trace a Potential Attack on your computer system.
Microsoft Templates to Help with Tax Time
One of the greatest sources of forms and information can be the Microsoft Office Templates web site. Well, they’ve done it again with an offering to help organize your finances for tax time and the rest of the year. Included are forms to the IRS, loan calculators, budget spreadsheets and much more. Go to: ( http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/assistance/HA010450961033.aspx )
SpywareBlaster 3.2
This latest
release of the JavaCool Software concentrates on preventing spyware or
malware from ever installing on your computer system. SpywareBlaster 3.2
will prevent
the installation of ActiveX-based spyware, adware, browser hijackers,
dialers, and other potentially unwanted pests. It can also block
spyware/tracking cookies in Internet Explorer and Mozilla/Firefox, and
restrict the actions of potentially dangerous sites in Internet Explorer.
Unlike
other programs, SpywareBlaster does not have to remain running in the
background.
SpywareBlaster is freeware for personal and
educational use. To get more information and to download the free version,
go to: (
http://www.javacoolsoftware.com ).
Spyware Doctor 3.1
If you’ve tried using Lavasoft’s Ad-Aware and SpyBot Search & Destroy, you can try another free spyware removal program from PCTools. PCTools has been making diagnostic software for years and their experience shows with this offering. Spyware Doctor found supposed spyware that neither of the first mentioned programs could locate. Of course, there is an upgrade that you can purchase that has more features. Go to: ( http://www.pctools.com ).
4 Steps Before you Upgrade to Windows XP
Microsoft offers a web site that will walk you through
4 steps to complete to help you decide if your computer can safely be
upgrade to the Windows XP operating system. The checks are intended for the
Windows XP Professional operating system, but will give you an indication if
the Windows XP Home operating system will work with your current
configuration. Please follow the steps carefully. Go to:
(
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/upgrading/default.mspx
)
Free On-Line Courses
Every month CNET.com
offers a variety of on-line courses ranging from business to technology to
personal growth. Some of the courses scheduled for the future include
“Wireless Home Networking”, PC Troubleshooting”, “Build Your Own PC”, “Adobe
Photoshop Basics”, and more. Registration via email is required.
Go to: (
http://courses.help.com/support/about.jsp
)
For more computer Tips
& Tricks go to the One on One Computer Consultants Tips Page at:
(
http://www.1on1cc.com/tips.htm )