Mac malware is, in fact, on the rise and users of these machines are finding themselves almost as vulnerable as those who surf the Internet on standard Windows-based . . . → Read More: Is Mac Malware On The Rise?]]> Long gone are the days of Macintosh computers being largely bulletproof when it comes to hacks, malware and viral threats. As more people plug in with Mac devices, more cybercriminals are focusing their attentions on cracking into these machines that were once thought to be largely invulnerable.

Mac malware is, in fact, on the rise and users of these machines are finding themselves almost as vulnerable as those who surf the Internet on standard Windows-based PCs. When cybercriminals seek to hack into or infect Macs, they are largely looking for the same things, too. The potential threats Mac users face include:

• Viral attacks – Macs are vulnerable to viral attacks just like PCs. This is especially so when people bring their Macs online to surf the web, visit sites like Facebook and Twitter and more. Viruses can easily be introduced onto machines to destroy data, steal personal information and more.
• Phishing – Mac users are not immune to phishing attempts or spam by a long shot. Bad guys can just as easily rope Mac users in to clicking on phishing links as they can owners of PCs. When Mac users react to these links, they might find themselves duped – willingly handing over personal information on sites they believe to be legitimate.
• Hacking – Yes, Mac computers can be hacked.

With even Apple Support Forums supporting the notion that the use of malware to infect these machines is on the rise, it’s time for owners of Macs to take precautions. Fortunately, there are a number of measures Mac users can employ to protect themselves, their machines and their data from attack.

How to Protect a Mac

Safety measures for Mac users are largely the same as those recommended for people who go online with PCs. Some of the measures that can be taken to protect machines and data include:

• Exercising caution when online – Be wary of downloads, links from unknown sources, Instant Messages with attachments and other potential red flags.
• Avoiding spam – Spam emails are an excellent “way in” for the bad guys. Mac users can set their email programs to filter out spam. Even so, they should avoid clicking links in emails that make it through filters and be very wary of downloads that are sent via email.
• Using protection software – There are plenty of antiviral and Internet security programs available especially for use on Mac operating systems. Norton, for example, makes versions of such popular programs as Norton AntiVirus and Norton Internet Security just for Mac users.

Just because Macs weren’t a likely target for malware in the past doesn’t mean this is still the case. Malware infection of Macs is on the rise and owners need to take measures to protect themselves.

IP&TV awards are given out in several different categories. The Best TV Service Innovation is for the best provider of video delivery over both IP and non-IP networks together or IP over a traditionally . . . → Read More: AT&T U-verse – Winning The IP&TV Industry Award]]> To recognize leaders in the IPTV field, the IP&TV World Forum created the IP&TV Industry Award. The award is given to service providers which prove their innovation, achievement and excellence in the IPTV field. Only the elite are eligible for recognition.

IP&TV awards are given out in several different categories. The Best TV Service Innovation is for the best provider of video delivery over both IP and non-IP networks together or IP over a traditionally non-IP infrastructure. The Best Service Growth Achievement recognize a provider or operator who has seen significant growth in the number of subscribers to IP enabled TV services.

Best Multiscreen TV Service and Best Multiscreen TV Solution awards are given to providers which successfully implement an innovative multiscreen viewing experience through multiple viewing terminals at once. Other awards recognize providers for best network technologies, quality improvement and the best TV service delivery platform.

AT&T was honored with an IP&TV Industry Award for the AT&T U-verse TV service. In 2011, AT&T won the Best Multiscreen TV Service award for their innovative approach to providing IPTV service on multiple TV and device at once. They were also nominated for the Best IPTV, Hybrid or Connected TV Service Growth Achievement thanks to their ever expanding service.

Part of the reason AT&T has won not only in 2011, but in past years is in no small part thanks to dedication to delivering the best possible TV experience. The positive feedback they continue to receive from customers only fuels their innovative spirit to create newer and better IPTV technology. As their technology grows, so does their customer base.

During 2010, AT&T set the standard high for the multiscreen IP&TV Industry Award. Their U-verse service was available for TV, Internet, mobile and Xbox 360. This provided viewing options for a wide variety of customers at once. They have quickly become one of the fastest growing provider of IPTV services. Their growth has exceeded other major TV providers in both 2009 and 2010.

The AT&T U-verse service has been winning awards since its inception. With a service growth award from IP&TV in 2009 and a TelcoTV Vision Award for Service Provider Innovation in 2010, U-verse has become a recognized, quality IPTV service. By continuing to develop more innovative technologies which create better viewing experiences and offer customers more features to choose from, AT&T is becoming a true force to be reckoned with in this field.

AT&T DSL Direct High Speed Internet service is for those consumers that just don’t see a point or have a valid reason in subscribing not just to . . . → Read More: AT&T DSL Direct]]> Consumers don’t have to have phone or cable service to enjoy fast, around-the-clock access to the internet. Thanks to AT&T DSL Direct, there’s a superfast, broadband option available to those who only wish to subscribe to a single high speed Internet service without changing their phone line provider.

AT&T DSL Direct High Speed Internet service is for those consumers that just don’t see a point or have a valid reason in subscribing not just to multiple communication and entertainment options, but to regular phone line plus Internet. As the Internet continues to grow with its television programming choices and more people subscribe to cellular phone service, it’s just a simple fact that internet can stand on its own to provide a home or office with the only communication and entertainment tool that’s necessary. If one would opt for regular AT&T High Speed DSL Internet, that would include both AT&T home phone line and Internet. There is also U-verse Internet which is the base service for award winning AT&T U-verse TV service.

So, what does AT&T DSL Direct have to offer consumers? This service is considered among the best in the industry because of its:

• Speed options – AT&T DSL Direct is designed to provide consumers with a choice of speeds. Ranging from DSL Direct Basic to DSL Direct Elite, the plan’s four speed options are mean to suit a variety of needs. The basic level of service, for example, is ideal for those who only use the internet for emailing, chatting and surfing websites. The middle range options are great for those who want more speed to enjoy video streaming, gaming and other high-demand options. DSL Direct Elite is perfect for home users with big demands. It can also work well for small business customers.
• Pricing options – AT&T DSL Direct also provides consumers with a great pricing plan. The cost ranges from just under $20 a month to less than $50 for the highest level of service.
• Plan inclusions – While AT&T DSL Direct is priced to be affordable, the communication company hasn’t skimped on features included with the service. All plans, for example, come with AT&T Wi-Fi included. The Elite and Pro levels of service also enjoy free McAfee Internet Security Suite protection with their subscriptions. The other two plans offer this for only $5 a month. The security suite is even usable on up to 10 computers. Plus, all plans come with 11 email accounts, online photo and video storage, web-based access to emails and more.

Just because a consumer doesn’t need a home telephone provider or television service, doesn’t mean internet access isn’t desired. When a solution that doesn’t skimp on the options is desired, AT&T DSL Direct delivers. This program package provides all the power subscribers need to enjoy the web or even get some serious work done.

Phishing tends to involve two basic types of attack – email and . . . → Read More: How To Protect Yourself Against Phishing]]> Phishing scams are among the most dangerous ploys used on the internet these days. When phishers manage to hook a victim, they can steal personal information, drain bank accounts, set up loans using the names of their victims and more. Protecting against this crime is a must for anyone that uses a computer, in order to protect identity.

Understanding the Forms of Phishing

Phishing tends to involve two basic types of attack – email and website-based. They run a little differently, but they can go hand-in-hand. Here’s a look:

• Email phishing – In this kind of attack, the bad guys send potential victims emails that do one of two things. They either request the recipient to visit a fake website where they will be asked to input personal data, such as credit card numbers, that can then be used for the criminal’s personal gain. The other ploy they use involves directly asking for personal information in a return email. Nigerian scams, for example, often fit this bill.
• Website phishing – The internet is loaded with bogus websites set up by the bad guys. These sites are made to appear exactly like legitimate sites, such as those belonging to banks or major stores. When victims land on them – either by accident or through a phishing email link – they might be duped into offering up their own information willingly.

How to Safeguard against Phishing

Perhaps one of the most disturbing things about phishing involves the fact that victims often willingly give over their information. To protect against this:

• Use internet security software – Programs like Norton 360 are designed to help users avoid phishing scams. They do so by helping users identify safe websites, helping them steer clear of bad and potentially dangerous links and so on. This type of software can serve as a very strong line of defense.
• Never click on links in emails – Avoid clicking to a bank’s website, for example, from an email. Instead, if the bank is personally used, just type the URL into the web browser instead.
• Set spam filters – Make sure email accounts are set to filter out spam.
• Don’t open emails from unknown sources – If spam does make it through a filter, just delete it.
• Take care when giving out personal information – It’s never a good idea to share personal information, such as credit card numbers, via email or other online sources unless it is perfectly clear the person is known and the transaction is safe.

Phishing is a serious threat computer users need to protect themselves from. When the right actions are put into place, it is possible to avoid these scams and the damages they can cause.

AT&T U-verse is a different kind of “cable” company. Rather than offer . . . → Read More: AT&T U-verse Recognizes Diversity]]> AT&T U-verse is making waves with Hispanic viewers by offering them more and more programming choices designed to meet their specific desires. In addition to its already robust lineup of channels for Spanish-speaking customers, the company recently expanded its portfolio of on demand offerings. The expansion was designed to ensure that Hispanic viewers can get the content they want when they want it.

AT&T U-verse is a different kind of “cable” company. Rather than offer television through traditional means, AT&T U-verse breaks out of the box – literally – to provide its programming over the U-verse Internet (Fiber to the Node (FTTN) or Fiber to the Premises (FTTP)). This means it can deliver programming options to consumers directly to their televisions, through Xbox 360s and other devices.

Spanish speakers will find that AT&T U-verse is looking out for their interests. Recent content additions via On Demand En Español TV include:

• Private concerts – AT&T U-verse customers can now view their favorite Latin artists in concert any time they want to. This addition comes courtesy of many partnerships between AT&T U-verse and Latin music industry recording artists and leaders.
• Behind-the-scenes clips – Viewers that want to learn more about their favorite artists can now do so on demand.
• Interviews – Viewers can delve into the backgrounds of Latin pop stars and learn more about what makes them tick.
• Rehearsals – There is also an ever-growing lineup of rehearsal footage available to AT&T U-verse customers in the on demand library.

The new content comes from some of the Latin music industry’s biggest performers, too. Featured musicians include Natalia Jimenez, Franco de Vita, Luis Fonsi, Paulina Rubio and Juan Luis Guerra. Many of these artists have allowed AT&T to offer subscribers exclusive content that can only be seen via U-verse programming.

AT&T U-verse executives say they are committed to serving all of their customers with the information and entertainment they desire. That’s why there has been such a push to ensure that Spanish-speaking customers get the programming they want.

AT&T isn’t limiting its customers to only watching on their televisions either. Much of the content, including behind-the-scenes videos and concerts, is now available to U-verse subscribers via U-verse Mobile on select AT&T mobile devices. This means subscribers can watch and listen to the artists they love from just about anywhere on demand.

AT&T U-verse wasn’t created to remain stagnant. The company is continuously working to upgrade its offerings to subscribers and to ensure they have the content they want where they want it. The recent expansion of the on demand catalog for Spanish-speaking viewers demonstrates this commitment clearly.

Aside from the obvious irritations, spam can be dangerous for a computer and its users. Through email spam bad guys can:

Now let’s go into some details.

Any advanced TV service like AT&T U-verse offers the possibility of having multiple TVs around a . . . → Read More: AT&T U-verse TV Wireless Receiver]]> One of the AT&T U-verse related news was the availability of the AT&T U-verse TV Wireless Receiver. The receivers are available for order since October 31, 2011. The cost involved is one time fee of $49, plus $7 of monthly recurrent fee. As of now, there’s a limit of two receivers per household.

Now let’s go into some details.

Any advanced TV service like AT&T U-verse offers the possibility of having multiple TVs around a house while using a device like Total Home DVR which is capable of recording multiple TV shows at the same time, and also playing recorded shows onto multiple TVs at the same time.
But, TV wiring has to be in place in order to have everything connected properly so the user can utilize all of the capabilities of such devices and technologies.

Well, as per AT&T, now U-verse users can go “wireless” with their TVs. The only wiring needed would be the power for TV and wireless receiver and the HDMI connection between the receiver and TV itself. Not bad!

With this technology, AT&T U-verse user can do this:

• Forget existing TV outlets – Stop worrying about the layout of the room as the location of TV outlet is not an issue anymore. Now the TV can be put wherever it fits the best as the U-verse wireless receiver will take care of the signal.
• Use locations without outlets at all – Yes, people can now watch TV on their patios on a nice day while watching their steaks or burgers not to get burned on a barbecue. I guess a day will come when no TV outlets will be installed in new homes and condos at all. I also guess we’ll wait for that a bit. In any case, wireless TV option is already here.
• Easier installation – Maybe not a big deal for some, but still it’s less wires to worry about.
• Full Total Home DVR capabilities – This is what I looked for around. To be sure that this wireless device can actually do all what Total Home DVR can. Nice!

AT&T U-verse Wireless Receiver is made by Cisco. It works in a simple way where it uses a Wi-Fi TV signal coming from the wireless access point attached to the AT&T U-verse Wireless Gateway. The wireless access point (WAP) comes in the box with the receiver, and it requires one Ethernet port available on the gateway. Like with any equipment installation, this one requires patience, too. Once everything is setup, pairing needs to be performed between the WAP and the receiver. The result should be the green lit antenna  on the receiver. The signal strenght should be at least three green led bars showing on the receiver. Once they’re paired, all is good to go. This makes AT&T U-verse TV service really neat.

Existing remote control from existing receiver can be used. If a user opts for the new device, then the new remote control will require programming.

AT&T U-verse TV Wireless Receiver represents the new positive step in AT&T U-verse service. It certainly makes life easier, as least when about managing our TVs around the house.

Taking a Macintosh computer online, downloading files, opening emails and even instant messaging without the benefits of antivirus protection can be a dangerous undertaking. After all, the cyber criminals out there are targeting these machines just like PC so they can steal identities, rip off money and generally cause problems.

Norton AntiVirus 12 for Mac . . . → Read More: A Look At Norton AntiVirus 12 For Mac]]> After writing about Norton Internet Security 5 for Mac, today we take a look at Norton AntiVirus 12 for Mac.

Taking a Macintosh computer online, downloading files, opening emails and even instant messaging without the benefits of antivirus protection can be a dangerous undertaking. After all, the cyber criminals out there are targeting these machines just like PC so they can steal identities, rip off money and generally cause problems.

Norton AntiVirus 12 for Mac stands among other Norton for Mac security software ready to help users protect their machines and their personal data. This version of Norton’s famed AntiVirus program isn’t just a retooled PC version either. It was especially designed to protect the vulnerabilities Mac owners face.

So, what can Norton AntiVirus 12 for Mac do? Here are just a few of the benefits that make this Norton software package worth a closer look:

• Targeted antivirus protections – As its name suggests, Norton AntiVirus for Mac was especially designed to protect Macs from viruses, Trojans, worms, bots and other pieces of malware. In addition to providing standard protections for Mac users, however, this software package goes a few steps beyond. It also specifically addresses viruses that might be designed to attack iPhoto, iMovie and other Mac-specific programming. It takes the vulnerabilities hackers have found on these programs and locks them down to safeguard data and information.
• Online protections – Norton AntiVirus for Mac is also designed to provide Mac users some protections when they are online. The program scans attachments related to emails and instant messages to ensure that they do not introduce viruses onto the machines. It also keeps a wary watch on other activities to try and stop cybercriminals from steal identities and customers’ money.
• Vulnerability protection – Hackers and cyber criminals have found all sorts of ways to exploit vulnerabilities on Macs. Not only do they target emails, IMs, iMovie and iPhoto, they will also target any application or program they think they can break into. Norton AntiVirus 12 for Mac recognizes this and strives to put a lock on other programs, as well.
• The timeliness – Norton’s programmers understand that cybercriminals are constantly updating their tools to break into machines and steal data. That’s why they work hard to counter their efforts and even stay a step ahead. To ensure this is the case, Norton AntiVirus 12 for Mac provides daily updates. These are designed to protect consumers with the latest antivirus protocols.

Macs are not immune from viral attacks. That’s why there is Norton AntiVirus 12 for Mac. This program helps owners safeguard their data and their identities in a turbulent online world.

As cybercriminals, virus programmers and hackers become savvier, anyone who takes a computer online will find themselves vulnerable to attack. Even Macintosh users have a cause for concern. While these machines were once thought to be relatively bulletproof in regard to viruses and hacks, that is simply no longer the case. Fortunately, there are safeguards available to protect Mac users. . . . → Read More: What Norton Internet Security 5 For Mac Provides Users]]> Recently, Norton has revealed the new version of Norton Internet Security for Mac, version 5.

As cybercriminals, virus programmers and hackers become savvier, anyone who takes a computer online will find themselves vulnerable to attack. Even Macintosh users have a cause for concern. While these machines were once thought to be relatively bulletproof in regard to viruses and hacks, that is simply no longer the case. Fortunately, there are safeguards available to protect Mac users. Once such safeguard is Norton Internet Security 5 for Mac.

Norton, one of the world’s leading providers of Internet security programming, has created this software package just for Mac users. Like the PC version, Norton Internet Security 5 for Mac is designed to provide a well-rounded suite of protections.

When Norton Internet Security 5 for Mac is installed on a machine, users can anticipate receiving such benefits as:

• Antivirus – Norton is considered one of the world’s best at providing computer users – both Mac and PC lovers – with antivirus protections. The Norton Internet Security 5 for Mac software package comes with a robust lineup of protections. The program keeps a watchful eye out for spyware, viruses, worms and other potential threats. It can even protect iPhoto pictures, iMovie projects and more.
• Confidential file guard – This feature lets users easily password protect their files so prying eyes can’t get into them. It is great for generalized protection and just puts an extra layer of lockdown on personal data.
• Norton Safe Web – this feature is meant to provide proactive protections while Mac users surf the web. It warns about and blocks bogus websites and enables users to enjoy safer overall surfing.
• Daily updates – Like other Norton products, this one is kept on the cutting edge of antivirus protections courtesy of daily updates. These run in the background so Mac users don’t have to worry about slowdowns.
• Email and Instant Message Monitoring – This feature enables the constant canning of iChat, MobileMe, other IMs and emails to ensure safer online use. The program warns of suspicious attachments and helps protect users from identity thieves that may luck online.
• Firewall protection – Norton Internet Security 5 for Mac also provides users with a smart two-way firewall. This prevents hackers from gaining access to a machine while enabling users to get online and do what they need to.

Even Macintosh users are vulnerable in today’s computing age. When Norton Internet Security 5 for Mac is installed on a machine, users can anticipate safer navigation of the online world. More about Norton for Mac solutions here.

When it comes to computer protection programs, the Norton name tends to stand above the competition. Just about any product in this company’s . . . → Read More: Norton 360 vs. Norton AntiVirus]]> Here I continue with comparisons between different Norton security products. Back in September it was Norton 360 vs. Norton Internet Security, and now I’ll do Norton 360 vs. Norton AntiVirus. There will be some repetition about Norton 360, but I have to mention it again in order to get to the point.

When it comes to computer protection programs, the Norton name tends to stand above the competition. Just about any product in this company’s extensive line offers buyers access to the latest antivirus protocols and other security features that are designed to safeguard data and more. Selecting the right product in the line, however, is important to ensure personally necessary protection is in place when it is needed the most.

Norton 360 and Norton AntiVirus are both designed to prevent viruses and other similar attacks. Norton 360, however, goes well above and beyond in the safeguards it offers. A closer look at the two programs reveals Norton AntiVirus is the perfect choice for those that only require a basic level of protection. Norton 360, however, is designed to safeguard data and users from just about any potential threat.

Norton AntiVirus

Norton AntiVirus is designed to offer holistic protections against Trojans, viruses, bots, worms and other potentially harmful pieces of programming. This software package boasts these features and more:

• Blocks online dangers – Norton AntiVirus not only scans files on a machine, it also stops threats before they make it onto a computer. It does so by scanning potentially risky files, emails, instant messages, attachments and more.
• Protects performance – In addition to its highly lauded antivirus protocols, Norton AntiVirus is meant to work without causing performance issues. It works in the background and receives constant updates to ensure not only speed, but also the latest protections.
• Stops spyware – Norton AntiVirus is also designed to help safeguard users from cybercriminals. It does so not only by blocking and eliminating viruses, but also through spyware preventions.

Norton 360

As its name indicates, Norton 360 is designed to provide users with total protections. This software package delivers the same protections found in Norton AntiVirus, but goes several steps beyond. In addition to providing antivirus and spyware protections, Norton 360 also:

• Offers identity theft protection – Norton 360 was created to provide an aggressive, proactive level of protection against identity theft. It does so by blocking malware, and also by safeguarding personal data such as passwords, user names, account numbers and so on.
• Provides for backup and restoration – Even when a computer is locked down from viral and criminal threats, data can still be lost. Ordinary hardware crashes, for example, are still a threat. That’s why Norton 360 also offers backup and restoration features. In fact, users can store up to 2GB of data online in an offsite location. Upgrades in data amounts are also available.
• PC Tuneup – Norton 360 provides PC Tuneup abilities like disk defragmentation, computer startup speed up, unnecessary files removal, and more.

Answering the question of which is better Norton AntiVirus or Norton 360 is, and at the same time, isn’t easy. The truth is both programs are designed to meet the needs of distinct users. Those who only require antivirus protections will find everything they need in Norton AntiVirus. When all the bases need to be covered, Norton 360 gets the job done.