Online Virus Information

Virus Myths

2010-10-04T20:11:00.001-07:00

Below are come comments we've come across that are common misconceptions when it comes to computer viruses and other malware.

"If I download a file onto a disk, I don't have to worry about a viruses." - This is not true, just because you've placed a file on a diskette or moved a file from a diskette to your hard drive does not mean that your computer cannot be infected. Many viruses are memory resident and capable of loading themselves into memory once a diskette is placed in the computer.

"If I buy sealed software I don't have to worry about viruses." or "If I just buy registered software I don't have to worry about viruses." - This is not always true, just because the program may be surrounded in plastic doesn't mean that it cannot be infected with a virus. When a software program is saved onto a diskette or disc if that computer or program is infected the virus will attach itself. Although this issue very rarely occurs it is still a possibility.

"If I don't download anything off of the Internet I don't have to worry about viruses." - This is definitely not true. Although most companies and web sites will scan the files for viruses before they make them available to download some may not. In addition many people create a site or a file to download with the intention of spreading a virus, spyware, Trojan horses, or other malware.

"If I just read my e-mail, I will not have to worry about viruses." - Not true; there are viruses out there that are distributed through e-mail; also, files can be attached with e-mail and if executed can infect the computer. Today this is one of the most common ways computer viruses spread around the world.

"If I don't get on the Internet I don't have to worry about viruses." - This, unfortunately, is not the case. Although many viruses are spread over the Internet today it is still possible to contract a computer virus form any diskette or disc you put in the computer.

"You can contract viruses from just looking at web pages." - Not true. However, you can contract a virus if you download and execute a file from that web page. In addition spyware and other scripts can be executed from just viewing a web page. Although these programs are not designed to delete files on your computer they should be considered a privacy violation.

Google Fiber Is One Step Closer to Reality

2010-07-14T05:10:00.001-07:00

Google launches a new website to centralize its efforts to build an ultra high-speed fiber optic Internet connection, popularly known as Google Fiber.

In Earlier 2010, Google has announced its plan to build a high-speed network connection, delivering connection speeds 100 times faster than typical USA internet connections. The announcement produced a frenzy of interest: 600+ communities applied to become ground zero for Google’s experimental high-speed network. Topeka, Kansas even changed its name to Google, Kansas in order to win the contract.

The search giant is once again moving forward with its fiber network plans. It announced the launch of Google Fiber for Communities, a simple and straightforward homepage for the project, complete with videos, an FAQ, suggestions for how to take action, and a full list of the communities that have requested more information on Google Fiber.

It’s another step towards the eventual announcement of the first community to gain Google’s high-speed network, expected later this year.

Microsoft’s Plan for Windows 8

2010-07-07T19:47:00.000-07:00

The Italian Windows website “Windowsette” somehow managed to know a super-secret of Microsoft, extremely secret PPT presentation showing many of Microsoft’s goals and plans for upcoming and most awaited MS Windows 8. It seems that this highly confidential data was just found sitting around the Internet.

This leaked Microsoft PPT presentation for hardware makers on Windows 8 shows some insight into how the Microsoft is planning about its next Windows Operating System up gradation i.e. Windows 8.
The leak comes from the Microsoft Journal, an enthusiast blog written by Francisco Martín García, who lists himself as a Microsoft VIP Tester. Here are a few key points from the Windows 8 presentation:

Facial recognition: A Windows 8 computer will know who is using it based on latest facial recognition technology.

Fast start time: One of the great things about smart phones and the iPad is that it's always on and is ready to go. Laptops are increasingly speedy, but they don't compare to mobile gadgets. Microsoft wants Windows 8 devices to be as fast as Mobile phone.

Advance displays: Windows 8 will support 3D media, and it will also work with wireless TV sets. Says Microsoft, "Developers can build modern experiences around display devices by leveraging Windows 8 support for premium media experiences such as stereoscopic 3D and Wireless TVs."

How to Uninstall Antivirus 7

2010-06-29T20:05:00.000-07:00

About Antivirus 7
Antivirus 7 is a fake rogue security application that can be installed through the use of a Trojan horse parasite. Usually Trojans that install programs such as Antivirus 7 come from other malicious applications that are downloaded from P2P networks or warezprogram pirating web sites.

What Antivirus 7 do?
After the installation of Antivirus 7, a computer user is prompted with virtually endless amounts of popup alerts that falsely warn them of parasite infections. This software will also attempt to scan the system that it is installed on to reveal several fabricated parasite results. These tactics are carried out as part of a scare tactic to force users into purchasing the full Antivirus 7 application.

Removal of Antivirus 7
Getting rid of a software application like this may require an expert computer user if performed manually. Manual removal of Antivirus 7 can be performed but it could put the system at risk of deleting an essential system file needed for Windows to load. Removing registry entries associated with a harmful application can also seriously affect the way the system operates and could render certain functions useless if the wrong entry is deleted.

Spyware Adware Malware-A Real Problem

2010-06-21T22:13:00.000-07:00

Most computer users have heard about adware, malware, and spyware. However, many are not sure how these can affect their computers, and here is where the problem lies. If your home is being threatened by potential thieves, would you not do all you can to protect your property and your family?

In a very similar way your computer is vulnerable because of the growing number of victims of identity theft and botnet. These threats can also cause your system to crash, and that can cost a pretty penny.

Spyware has the distinct advantage of being able to worm its way into your PC through downloads, emails, or internet surfing. Once inside your computer, it can track down your computer use, internet activities, disrupt your PC use with pop-ups, and steal personal and financial information like your credit card numbers.

With botnet a computer spyware program, it can turn your PC into part of its network which sends out spam without you knowing it and so you end up infecting and spamming your relatives, business associates and friends, without even knowing it.

You need to beef up your security, and one of the best ways to do it is with an anti-spyware that will not just protect you once, but continuously through automatic updates and scans.

Controller-Free Xbox “Kinect”

2010-06-14T19:56:00.000-07:00

The Xbox 360’s new motion gaming peripheral will be called “Microsoft Kinect”, replacing old name “Project Natal,”. There are also some new details about the games that will be available for the device.

One of the games among them will be a white water rafting simulation. It turns out that game will actually be part of a suite of games called Kinect Adventures. That package will include bowling, boxing, track and field, volleyball, table tennis and soccer/football.

A separate game called Joyride will be a bit like Nintendo’s Mario Kart or Sony’s ModNation Racers, but you’ll control your car by holding an imaginary steering wheel that you’ll push forward or pull away to control the throttle. No casual gaming lineup would be complete without pets, so Microsoft will also launch a game called Kinectimals, in which you’ll be able to play with or train 20 kinds of cats using motion controls.

Finally, MTV Games is working on a dance competition title called Dance Central, and franchise games featuring characters and settings from Disney and Star Wars movies are set for launch as well.

Stay tuned for pricing and exact release date — both will probably be revealed this week at the E3 games conference in Los Angeles.

As a side note, we’ll mention that an Italian video ad featuring the Kinect brand also mentions a new, slimmer version of the Xbox 360 console itself. That hasn’t been announced officially, but it seems likely since the leaked ad called the Kinect name too.

Technique to remove HTTPS Tidserv Request

2010-06-02T19:58:00.000-07:00

Introduction about Tidserv Trojan

“HTTPS Tidserv Request” or “HTTPS Tidserv Request 2”is a mark which detects your antivirus. It indicates that your computer is infected with a Tidserv trojan. Tidserv (TDSS) trojan fix onto your computer through a vulnerabilities in an already installed applications (mostly in InternetExplorer, Java and Adobe Acrobat reader) or with the help of a rogue antispyware programs. This trojan is very dangerous and uses rootkit-specific techniques designed to hide the program presence in the system.

When installed, Tidserv trojan creates a hidden driver and hidden service to run automatically when Windows loads. While is running, the trojan can hijack Internet Explorer, redirect search results in Google, Yahoo, MSN to non related sites, block most of antivirus and antispyware programs from running, block an access to security websites, disable Windows Task Manager, Windows Security Center and Registry editor, and much more.

Steps to remove Tidserv Trojan

1. Download TDSSKiller by Kaspersky Antivirus Lab and unzip to your desktop.
2. Open TDSSKiller folder. Right click to tdsskiller and select rename. Type a new name (123myapp, for example). Press Enter. Double click the TDSSKiller icon to start scanning Windows registry for TDSS trojan.
3. When TDSSKiller will prompt you to press “Y”, type Y and press Enter. Your computer will be rebooted.
4. Download MalwareBytes Anti-malware (MBAM). Once downloaded, close all programs and windows on your computer.
5. Double-click on the icon on your desktop named mbam-setup.exe. This will start the installation of MalwareBytes Anti-malware onto your computer. When the installation begins, keep following the prompts in order to continue with the installation process. Do not make any changes to default settings and when the program has finished installing, make sure a checkmark is placed next to “Update Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware” and Launch “Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware”. Then click Finish.
6. MalwareBytes Anti-malware will now automatically start and you will see a message stating that you should update the program before performing a scan. If an update is found, it will download and install the latest version.
7. As MalwareBytes Anti-malware will automatically update itself after the install, you can press the OK button to close that box and you will now be at the main menu.
8. Make sure the “Perform quick scan” option is selected and then click on the Scan button to start scanning your computer for Tidserv (TDSS) trojan. This procedure can take some time, so please be patient.
9. When the scan is finished a message box will appear that it has completed scanning successfully. Click OK. Now click “Show Results”. You will see a list of infected items similar as shown below.
10. Make sure all entries have a checkmark at their far left and click “Remove Selected” button to remove Tidserv (TDSS) trojan. MalwareBytes Anti-malware will now remove all of associated Tidserv (TDSS) trojan files and registry keys and add them to the programs’ quarantine. When MalwareBytes Anti-malware has finished removing the infection, a log will open in Notepad and you may be prompted to Restart.

After this Tidserv Trojan will be permanently remove from computer.

McAfee Patch file Error

2010-05-06T22:26:00.000-07:00

If you are one of those Windows XP users who has downloaded latest McAfee security patch file on 21st April 10, then you might face some trouble. However if you are working on Windows Vista or Windows 7, then you need not worry as this patch is working perfectly fine on these MS Operating Systems.

Following issues are faced after instating above patch files:
• Automatic system shutdown
• Slow Internet connection
• Poor Computer performance

Solution for Automatic system shutdown

Step 1: Open a command prompt: Start menu, Run, then type cmd and hit Enter
Step 2: Type shutdown -a, which will prevent the shutdown from occurring

Once Slow Internet connection
Step 1: Click Start, Programs, McAfee, and then VirusScan Console
Step 2: Right-click “Access Protection”
Step 3: Select “Disable”

Poor Computer performance

Step 1: Download EXTRA.ZIP, from the McAfee site and unzip to get EXTRA.DAT
Step 2: Click Start, Run, then type services.msc and click “OK”
Step 3: Right-click the McAfee McShield service and select “Stop”
Step 4: Copy EXTRA.DAT to “\Program Files\Common Files\McAfee\Engine”
Step 5: Then restart the McAfee McShield service by right-clicking on it and choosing “Start” from the context menu
Step 6: Re-enable access protection by going back to the VirusScan Console
Step 7: Right-click “Access Protection”
Step 8: Select “Enable”
Step 9: In the VirusScan Console, go to the Quarantine Manager Policy
Step 10: Click the Manager tab
Step 11: Right-click on each file in the Quarantine and choose “Restore”

Once you have completed all these steps, your computer will function as it was before. All that we have done is these steps is disabled the erroneous patch and enabled the correct patch.

How to Remove Spyware

2009-09-03T02:25:00.000-07:00

Computer spyware and adware seem to be taking over computers everywhere these days, but there are some good measures that you can follow to help your computers be at bay from such dangerous malware. Let’s throw some light on definitions of these pesky software programs:

Adware is software that displays futile as well as attractive advertisments on your PC. These ads have a sole motive to popup on your screen at any time. They usually come bundled with free software as a source to make money.

Now, what is Spyware? It is software that watches your Internet surfing habits or tracks your usernames and passwords followed by sending this information to a third party without your permission or knowledge.
Outlined below are some safety measures brought to you by iYogi Technical Services to keep your computer malware free:

Be Careful When You Download

Even your favourite websites can have infected data and software programs having spyware or adware that you don’t know about. You are advised to check everything before you download any stuff from the Internet. Carry out a search in search engines like Yahoo! and Google for the software along with the word ’spyware’ or ‘adware’ and install antispyware.
If you don’t get any significant results for such keywords, it may be safe to continue downloading. Always read the license agreement associated with the application with meticulous eyes. Any bundled components should be mentioned in there somewhere. When you install the software, choose the ‘custom’ option if given there. It provides you with a better view of the installation process and control over what components are actually getting installed on your PC.

Install a Popup Blocker

Spyware also gets automatically installed when you click on a popup window on your screen. These pop-up windows can simply look can often be quite attractive to click on. Installing a pop-up blocker helps to prevent these disturbing annoying distractions. Download for these pop-up blockers are available on Google.

Avail Immediate Technical Support Services

In case, you feel something suspicious in your computer’s behaviour, call for immediate technical help. Never wait for things to turn worser. Support workers will provide you withy instant solutions for virus removal, spyware removal and other required troubleshooting and virus removal services.

Are you carefull about your computer security

2009-09-02T02:23:00.000-07:00

Nobody would ever think about compromising on their pc security as it is something you always find yourself alarmed about. Well! This requires you to be fussy about two things: first one to be the computer virus all those Trojans, Spywares and if you are a corporate kind of guy the immediate thing is safety against computer hackers.

Even though there are quite a lot of products boasting to be the best for your computer’s security but using each of them is not possible. Although, you can opt for the crucial ones like Firewall protection, Antivirus, and Antispyware software programs. They have significant features that make them essential for your PC protection in today’s technological world which is bringing both advantages and external threats.

Next, we will talk about PC errors. Fighting with your computer problems each day is certainly not an easy task. This has motivated computer users to look forward to online computer support services widely available on the Internet. Computer support resources serve as one stop shop for your entire computer related issues and requirements. They have got highly trained technicians to take care of both software and hardware problems. Another benefit is their 24×7 availability which actually make them more useful as well as attractive.

Some common computer support services available with these vendors are: data backup services, Microsoft Windows support, antivirus installation, PC optimization, Internet optimization, virus removal, general computer maintenance, system restoration, installation of computer security products, their configuration and up-dation.
Infact, there are number of other online support companies that keep on coming with distinctive support services to help customers have everything at one place, you can now easily find these services with online tech support centers at the most cost effective prices.

When you are in a process of selecting the one computer support services to go for you have to consider some fact’s and the cost is one of the major concern while approaching them as far as pricing of computer support services are concerned, the price and their plan if service depends on company to company. Several computer support services offer a complete support in a single package for a one low price where some may charge you per incident i.e. per service or per hour. With increasing business competition among online computer support service providers, the desire to stay ahead has buoyant most of them to improve services at competitive prices. So, just try to google out your necessities and find the best deal on offer.

Top 10 computer safety tips

2009-09-01T02:22:00.000-07:00

In this post we will discuss 10 computer safety tips that will help you prevent malware infections such as viruses, trojans, worms, spyware, addware etc…. These types of infections are known slow down and even crash your comptuer, delete or corrupt your data, and use your computer as a launch pad to infect other comptuers.

We will break the 10 tips up into three sections

Computer Maintenance
Email
Browsing

Computer Maintenance

A properly maintained computer can dramatically reduce the risk of infection. Below are a few tips to help you maintain your computer.

1. Install a good antivirus software

While the most common PC antivirus softwares are Symantec (Norton) and McAfee usually run about $49/year there a several FREE alternatives that work well

A. AVG is free for personal use (fee based for businesses)

B. ClamWin is an Open Source antivirus that is free for all to use as long as you follow the GNU General Public License.

C. Avast and Avira are free for personal use as well

2. Install a good anti-spyware software

Some antivirus software will help with spyware as well but we recommend installing specialized antispyware software as well. Below are a couple of free ones that work well.

Windows Defender (free if you own a legal copy of Window XP or higher)
SpyBot SD
Ad-Aware

3. Set up a user account for you to use that cannot install software

One of the biggest security holes anywhere is that almost everyone runs their computer with full rights (administrator, root, superusr etc…) While this makes it more convenient to install software and patches it also makes it easier to install viruses and other malware. The safer way to operate your computer is to create an “everyday” user that doesn’t have excessive rights. Log on as that user to do your day to day computer stuff. When you need to install an update or a new software log in as the administrator, do the update or software install then log back in as the standard user before you continue. This minimizes the time available for the bad stuff to access your computer.

4. Set OS updates to download and install automatically

While some techs do not like this, I have found that overall it is better to let the computer update itself every day. This occasionally causes other errors but at least you will be protected against newly found exploits that could be used to access your computer.

5. Set up antivirus and antispyware software to perform automatic scans periodically

Almost all antivirus and antispyware programs have both an auto update and an auto scan feature. I recommend letting it update several times a day, if possible, and setting them up to scan your entire computer at least once a week.

Email Safety
Email is probably the most common transport for infections today. Following a couple of simple rules can stop those malwares in their tracks.

1. Never open an attachment unless you know the person sending it AND they have informed you they are sending it.

2. Always save any attachment to the hard drive before opening. Once saved use your antivirus software to scan the attachment before opening.

3. Turn off any auto preview. Though they are convenient they can open some bad files without you even knowing it.

Safe Internet Browsing
Another common way for the nasties to get into your computer is through your internet browser. Hackers and even some malware can take over a legitimate internet site or redirect your traffic to their site while appearing to go to your chosen destination.

The most common theme is for them to pop up a window that look like a valid antivirus or antispyware software window saying that you have thousands of infections but not to worry just click here and I will save the day.

WRONG. When you click is when the true infection occurs. Below are a couple of suggestions to prevent this type of infection on your computer.

1. Do NOT respond to unexpected popups. Use the red “X” in the upper corner to close the popup. Some are even getting tricky enough to not allow the closing of the window using the “X”. For these you need to open task manager (Windows) and close the program from there. If you are using Mac or Linux look up online how to “kill” a program and follow those instructions on the suspicious window.

2. Assume ANY site can be hacked or redirected. Use your common sense to decide whether to go there or not.

Computer Security

2009-07-15T01:15:00.000-07:00

There is hardly any household which has no computer. A computer has a security need not viruses within it. There are many different types of programs for the viruses to block. One is better than another. There are viruses, worms and trojan programs. The difference between a worm and a virus is that a worm can spread without the help of a user.

The most downloaded virus scanners are:

* AVG anti-virus Free Edition 8.0.1
* Avast Home Edition 4.8.1201.80611
* Avira AntiVir Personal - Free Antivirus 8
* PC Tools AntiVirus Free Edition 4.0
* A-squared Free 3.5.0.11

AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition
AVG has over 80,000,000 users. It's virus removal support services helps protect your computer. Your incoming and outgoing mail is descant and AVG can be used from Windows 98 to Windows Vista.

Avast Home Edition
Avast protects your online security checkup software. Your mail is checked before you read. Further scans the files that are exchange via Msn. AVG is less memory compared to Avast and it works slowly. Avast You can also upload to a paid version. But the free version offers a lot protection.

Avira AntiVir Personal
Avira keep everything in mind what you do on the computer. The program not only speurt spyware and viruses, but also trojans. What is one disadvantage to this program is that if an update is that you have to update, it is always pretty slow because it is a large file. The mail that comes in is checked.

PC Tools AntiVirus
This program removes unwanted viruses, trojans and worms. PC Tools AntiVirus is easy to use and recognize more than 1000000 viruses. The program is continuously uploaded and protects your computer when you surf the Internet.

A-squared
This program scans the computer for spyware and adware and is specialized in finding trojans and worms. It is not a very good virus scanner, but you can use it as a supplement to your existing anti-virus program. However, it is that you manually update, it is not automatic.

How do you find that your computer has a virus? Some symptoms on your computer can play.

* Your computer is always slower
* The contents of a file on your computer suddenly changes
* Your computer uses more memory
* You get many errors
* The computer may suddenly restart itself from itself
* There are pictures on your screen which you never seen
* If you eg 'T' button, it can suddenly another letter
* Settings on your computer changes.

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Virus: But why such hatred?

2009-07-09T01:08:00.001-07:00

Why write viruses? A variety of motives, but the virus writer is a common goal can be summed up as follows: in the damage. Some write viruses for fun, others for revenge, some understanding of other countries.

A well-known attitude is that all the negative would not have happened. Do not believe that it is clear that any user's computer may be infected with a virus, one or the other. The first virus-specific experience is always a painful and difficult time, the consequences are limited. This is not the same as the workplace caused by viral infection caused serious damage to the company. Due to the popularity of the network, if an item is contaminated with other countries to follow the period of time, longer or shorter. The price is high because the virus has caused major economic losses (whether direct or indirect loss).

Therefore, the basic anti virus software is absolutely necessary, when we access a bit on the Internet. In view of the large number of viruses (over 60,000), it is necessary to catalog the effects of these viruses is more or less disastrous. There are four main families of viruses. The virus is a normal, standard procedures for a small infection on your computer and copy all the files stored on your hard drive. Spread mainly in the exchange of documents. It is in this category, we believe that the most dangerous viruses. The second major category of viruses known as "Trojan horses" or "Trojan horse." Viruses, this series is particularly harmful, because they constitute a lovely little program to run and would be happy to take this opportunity to your system and repeat infections.

The third category is the most invasive called "worms" or Cascade e-mail worms are usually not harmful to humans, but also to open an e-mail as long as the installation of infections caused by viruses to spread at the same time with everyone in your address book. Finally, the family of malicious script more specific sites or e-mail, which may involve the firmware to cause significant harm to a particular system. We compared all the anti-virus recognition and elimination of viruses belonging to these families.

Go for virus removal support services if your computer gets affected or infected.

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Attention for MSAntiSpyware2009

2009-07-06T03:33:00.000-07:00

Be careful, there is recently a new virus on the Internet. Another fake antispyware program. Behind the promising name is a very persistent virus. It gives error messages annoying spyware that are not on your computer. It is meant for people in the fall to entice you to buy this program. Do not, you lose your money! You buy a virus. Do not be fooled by a lokroep as "Here now free antivirus package, there's always a catch.

Prevention
Prevention is better than cure. Especially with difficult viruses. As long as you do not believe popups, foreign anti-virus installs nothing in your hand. It is tricky when you're around the Internet looking for antispyware support services which is common among computer enthusiasts. You let you often mislead by annoying websites. Instead of looking to go, ask yourself which program to specialists they recommend. You can opt for a software purchase or free. You have millions of choices. But is the right!

Heal
If the evil has already been done as soon as you can possibly find a way to heal. Delay only gives the virus an opportunity to other viruses enter or leave to expand. Always a regular virus scan of your hard resources. You never know. Then you stronger, perhaps more dangerous means get out of the closet. A new tool that consists super antispyware. This sounds like a superlative with little content. But people who already are satisfied with testing. Look always google around for better alternatives or more information. You should assume that each program is a virus. Thus, the less likely your computer is a disease.

Methods

* Try an antivirus support services which secures your computer software (more about a good antivirus program, see: Antivirus AntiVir).
* Try Smitfraudfix on your computer.
* If you are in order council, there is only one solution. The lot of formatting. This allows you to do by a specialist. It wipes all your files from your computer, including all viruses. It is a lot of work, but sometimes the best. When your computer with viruses verzadigt you simply have no other choice anymore.

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OneCare antivirus best tested and 3 months free!

2009-06-29T02:41:00.000-07:00

Windows has a virus and spyware scanner on the market. OneCare seems to solve all computer problems. OneCare is three months (!) Free to try. OneCare scans and removes viruses and Spyware and back-ups so that documents, e-mails and photos no longer can be lost. Updates are automatic, and anti virus software integrates seamlessly into Microsoft operating systems, so your computer just as flexible as if he just new.

Anti-virus for Windows, three months free trial
Windows virus scanner "Live OneCare" is no ordinary scanner. Windows all-in-one wonder package for your computer, by the consumer as the best tested. OneCare (the name says it all) gets the broom by your computer and charges at one time with all the problems. OneCare Windows closes completely to your microsoft operating system XP and Vista, and that is a good note. Your computer is fast again as of old, and in the background makes OneCare also agree that your system remains organized. Windows promises optimal computer performance. OneCare is a virus scanner, spyware scanner, a firewal and make back-ups so that your documents never can be lost. There are many more benefits promises. You may protect 3 computers, with only one package! In addition, OneCare you three months free trial.

Windows OneCare protects and takes care of your PC
The protection package is running in the background, OneCare promises that you will not have to worry about them. It updates itself, which always offers protection against the latest attacks and threats) - it keeps your computer free from the need of virus removal support services, and keeps your computer clean and orderly system. The result is that your computer is always fast and flexible work remains, and you'll no longer have 'old' delays and other updates by delaying actions. Faster surfing, faster, no more feeling that your computer is in the file.

Virus-free, and back-ups on an auction site owner
Another nice gadget: OneCare makes it online (in a safe place) backups of your important files (documents, photos - you may decide) can be made (do not must have) - so if there was anything wrong with your documents, you have them in a U-turn back.

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All about free online virus scanners

2009-06-23T02:58:00.000-07:00

An online virus scanner simply checks whether your PC is really clean - and is newer than your installed antivirus. We have six services tested and tell you what you should use.

Infected or clean? Cheated or safe?
Many users have, and to doubt whether their computer is virus free, or even whether he is dangerously polluted code. Your PC is behaving strangely? Flashing the online connection, although you can not download? Or the disk clatters seemingly no reason? That the installed antivirus program is silent, do not always give certainty. Perhaps you are in the dark corners of the Internet and have been advised there a pest caught by the antivirus tool is not yet known. An online scanner, however, is always as current as possible. It gives you something like a second opinion on the state of your system.

The Online Scanner service

An online scanner gives you clarity on whether your system is infected with malware or not. Ideally, he finds not only all the pests on a PC, but it can also be removed. The offer, however, not all services. The scanner of Kaspersky and Symantec provide only a report. This is not ideal, but still helpful. The scanner finally reveal where the pest is and how it is. About the Virus Encyclopedia of antivirus manufacturer can then seek more information. To learn about if you simply delete the pest, or if you need a special cleaning tool need. Since the scan of a complete system can be a very long time, can also be individual partitions and folders, such as system partition and download list, select a scan.

That must Watch
Online scanners are not suitable for modem or ISDN users. Because although there are online tools, they are by the browser as an Active-X modules are downloaded. In turn they are very nice heavy weights: Even the smallest tool fails with 15 MB of beech, the thickest is 123 MB - for broadband users connect no problem for the modem is not reasonable.

Administrator rights: For the first installation of on-line scanner in the browser, you will need a user account with administrator privileges - or you start Internet Explorer using the context menu and "Run as" with these rights. If you use the scanner the second time, this is no longer necessary.

Safety: If the scanner once loaded, then they remain as an Active-X programs on your PC. These add-ons for Internet Explorer fell in recent months, however, due to severe security vulnerabilities on unpleasant. That is: Either you use the scanner regularly. Then update the tool every time it loads and updates also against existing vulnerabilities, or you can un-install the on-line scanner after use.

It is added advantage if one have a good knowledge or understanding antivirus and antispyware before these virus and spyware cause any serious infection for damage to one's PC.

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Microsoft OneCare Live

2009-06-18T02:43:00.000-07:00

OneCare Live is a set of tools and utilities security that users can manage only a single interface. antivirus component of the current application allows users to scan on demand, to schedule scans, configuration files or folders like scanning. Currently it is not scanning email received / sent and can only scan messages from MSN Messenger. Microsoft are planning combined ability to scan e-mail and consider the ability to scan the addition of IM khac.Mot protected class under the act will track the files have suspicious homogeneous, such as changes in the Registry key.

OneCare firewall in the control inputs and the network, this is the upgrade version of Windows Firewall. First use OneCare will ask the operating software that it does not identify, such as operating software update iTunes or activity of the Lotus Notes network.

Installed easily, although requires IE6. A web interface wizard will check if the system has the minimum requirements as well as not detect the risk of conflict with other applications before continue to install OneCare. Microsoft said that OneCare will on users to ensure no "encounter" with the basic antivirus software program running. Although in this experiment this product did not recognize the client version of Symantec Norton Antivirus Corporate. OneCare is detected and suggestions to remove the version of Norton Antivirus.

Microsoft has not the price for this product but the Purchase Now button (please buy it) found that OneCare is not free forever.

Understanding antivirus and antispyware comes handy when your computer is attacked by malicious virus or spyware.

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Conflicker: worm wakes up and updates

2009-06-05T02:06:00.001-07:00

According to Trend Micro one of the antivirus maker, an update of the virus is transmitted Conflicker from most of computers already infected. This new version allows the worm to better conceal its presence. Appointment was made, the massive attack of the virus Conflicker should occur on 1 April. It will finally computer hit, contradicting the numerous warnings of the editors of security products - unless this wealth of alerts has contributed in part to avoid the worst?

However, if the disaster Conflicker has not occurred, the virus has not disappeared from the networks. According to Trend Micro, it is again active on the infected computers. Only those already infected PCs are concerned, no further spread of Conflicker is announced.

Conflicker now uses rootkit technology. What is now the editor of antivirus, it is an update of the code of the worm. For the record, Conflicker based on a Peer to Peer network running on TCP and UDP connection. Since April 7, node Inetnet Address network Peer to Peer hosted in some country will forward updates to the worm-infected machines.

For Trend Micro, we must now speak of a new version of the malicious program. The specifics of this new code (named WORM_DOWNAD.E by the publisher) are numerous, including the use of rootkit features to hide its presence. Anxious to remain discreet, this new vintage Conflicker systematically erase its traces on the host computer, including deleting files and entries in the registry. The worm is also testing the connectivity of its host by logging on to sites such as MySpace.com, MSN.com, eBay.com, CNN.com and AOL.com. If no Internet connection, it searches the local IP.

Connections between the creators and Storm Conficker. In addition to these technical specifications, Trend Micro highlights another point: Conflicker tries to access a field so far exploited by another worm, Waledac, a variant of the Storm virus (which in 2007-2008 helped establish the largest network of PC). The connection to this field allows the download of another file (encrypted) - print.exe - a new binary Waledac. This discovery of the software security could attest to the relationship between the creators of two families of worm.

Get antivirus security for your computer before any major virus attack on you computer.

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Online Virus information

2009-05-29T06:41:00.001-07:00

Any of Windows based or any other computer operating system could be hit by a virus or some other type of malware. If your current installed antivirus protection can not able to removing viruses, malware, or other infection. In this cases, you feel at loss your data and information.

Is there anything to be done without paying the tech guy?
The answer is Yes!

If you have a stable Internet connection , there is an array of highly effective tools right at your disposal. Online virus cleaners are web-based Viruses scanning service provided by many major security software companies. These are free online virus help scanners. The benefit of these type of virus scanner are:

1. You do not have to install any software or application. Your system registry will not stays intact. It will not harm your running application and settings.

2. Every online virus cleaner is as safe as it only can be. Scan engines and all associated files are hosted on secure servers. So by running an online scanner you are not exposed to any threats, which is important to remember because many antispyware products offering "free scan" are actually bundled with malware and adware.

3. There are many as you like. Kaspersky, Symantec, F-secure, Ewido, ESET, Panda – the list goes on and on.

4. If malware blocks all attempts to install new computer security and maintenance software, running a free online virus cleaner is the way out. So let's create a list of online virus scanners that will be there for you every time you need another through system check.

Kaspersky Online Scanner:
This Online Scanner claims that highest detection rate in the industry, which is why it is a good tool to test your system. A big advantage of Kaspersky online virus scanner is that it works with Internet Explorer, Opera, and Mozilla Firefox, which all are major browsers. Kaspersky allows you to choose what to scan like critical areas, whole system, any drive or folder, or you can specify a single file for scan.

Norton Free Online Virus Scanner:
It provide two types of scanning first one is "virus checks" and second one is "Symantec security check". The first one tests your system about malware infection, and the second checks if your security settings are infected. It gives you Windows security updates, browser type, firewall configuration, etc.

F-Secure Online Virus Scanner
This is another free online virus scanner find out if your computer is infected, and disinfect your computer if needed. F-Secure supports Microsoft Internet Explorer and you should enable your ActiveX and Java-Script of your web browser. It can able to removes rootkits in addition to other common types of malware.

ESET Online scanner:
It offers you a free online virus scanning and removing malware, viruses, spyware, adware, worms, trojans, and more. This scanner uses the same technique as mentiond above Antivirus,

It is recommended that before online scanning you should first full update your virus scanner then after that scan your computer.

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iYogi Acquires Clean Machine Inc.

2009-05-14T02:15:00.001-07:00

Larry Gordon, Founder of Clean Machine appointed as President Global Channel Sales at iYogi

New York, NY, May 11th, 2009 : iYogi, a global direct to consumer and small business remote technical support provider, today announced it’s acquisition of Clean Machine Inc, a provider of remotely administered PC security and performance management services. Clean Machine will operate as a separate brand under the iYogi services umbrella along with the recently lunched Support Dock (www.supportdock.com) and its comprehensive range of 24/7 technical support services for computers, printers, MP3 players, digital camera, routers, servers and more than 100 software applications. Larry Gordon, Founder of Clean Machine is appointed as the President of Global Channel Sales for iYogi.

iYogi will integrate technology and innovation that Clean Machine Inc. has developed for delivering an enhanced service experience by proactively managing the health and security for PC's and Apple Computers. This acquisition also broadens iYogi's access to key markets through Clean Machine's existing partnerships. Larry Gordon's past experience and successful track record will accelerate iYogi's expansion through his focus on global alliances.
Commenting on the acquisition of Clean Machine Inc., Uday Challu, CEO & Co-founder of iYogi, said,

"This acquisition will help iYogi to enhance our customer experience and extend our market reach to the millions of consumers that are challenged by the increasingly complex technology environment. Clean Machine's proactive maintenance and management of PCs in home and small business environment will be our launch platform for building the next generation of managed services for consumers."

"We are delighted to have Larry spearheading partnerships and global alliances for iYogi. His incredible experience in marketing, sales and building global alliances will help forge partnerships with retailers, multiple service operators, software publishers, original equipment manufacturers (OEM) and other such companies that are at the frontlines for managing tech support issues for consumers and small businesses",

added Challu.

With more than 20 years of experience, Larry Gordon has played a variety of strategic roles in marketing, sales and building alliances. Larry was the Executive Vice President at Capgemini and Kanbay. He was also VP of Global Marketing for Cognizant (Nasdaq: CTSH), a leader in global IT services and Director of Marketing for New York based Information Builders.

"I am excited to join a company that shares a common mission to Clean Machine in creating a global brand for delivering the best technical support to consumers and small businesses. We also share a common approach of utilizing highly skilled talent with leading edge tools, thereby delivering services at incredible price-points, with high margins for our partners",

said Larry Gordon, the newly appointed President of Global Channel Sales at iYogi.

ABOUT IYOGI

Headquartered in Gurgaon, India with offices in New York, USA, iYogi provides personalized computer support for consumers and small businesses in United States, United Kingdom, Canada and Australia. IYogi's 24/7 phone and remote technical assistance, spans across a comprehensive range of technologies we use every day from a wide range of vendors. Utilizing its proprietary technology iMantra , and highly qualified technicians, iYogi delivers amongst the highest benchmarks for resolution and customer satisfaction. iYogi is privately held and funded by SAP Ventures, Canaan Partners, and SVB India Capital Partners. iYogi was recently awarded the Red Herring Global 100 Award, recognizing it as one of the 100 most innovative private companies driving the future of technology. For more information on iYogi and a detailed list of technologies supported, visit: www.iyogi.net.

ABOUT CLEAN MACHINE

Clean Machine Inc. is a NJ-based and incorporated company that helps consumers and small business owners easily manage and protect their computing environments safely and cost effectively. The company is has a unique, powerful and inexpensive PC concierge service. Specifically, each customer is assigned a highly-trained tech concierge who remotely examines their computer system on a scheduled and very secure basis. The PC concierge will immediately fix software-based problems and prevent new threats to the customer's computing environment including offensive pop-ups, browser redirects and slow performance, and then provides a detailed report. Clean Machine's proprietary Radar(TM) technology (Remote Access Detection Audit and Repair) allows its expert technicians to remotely resolve any problems, eliminating the need for customers to go through the frustrating process of speaking with a tech support expert, and still having to do the work themselves. In other words, the Clean Machine PC concierges do it all. For more information on Clean Machine please visit www.pccleanmachine.com.

iYogi Announces Launch of Monitoring and Performance Tool For SMBs

2008-08-27T12:36:00.000-07:00

iYogi – a leading provider of technical support services with horizons in the US, UK, Canada and Australia – today announced the launch of its exclusive server monitoring tools for small businesses. The new product offers integrated technology solutions to surmount the users’ unique IT support requirements thereby enabling them to derive and share information, data, enable network performance analysis, and security trends critical to plan and mana ge their set of servers – 24x7.

Uday Challu, iYogi’s CEO commented, “Holding a significant niche for itself in the computer support industry, iYogi has always known to be on the forefront of adapting breakthrough technology to exceed customer service expectations. This time we have developed a tool offering value-add functionality which will help small business customers maximize the business outcomes of IT.”

iYogi’s monitoring tool provides real time observation and monitoring solutions to ensure more robust and reliable IT support and infrastructure for small buinesses. Small Business owners also get a comprehensive assesment of their IT environment to meet technology needs with the scalability for future growth and create preventative measures based on quick analysis of network device alerts, pre-failure indicators, performance benchmark and security issues.

The new Monitoring and performance tool will provide small business with the opportunity to test all technical and non-technical aspects of their servers and help them to strengthen overall IT infrastructure. The array of services will include: Patch Management, Security Auditing, Site Inventory, Real Time Alerting Script Based Management, and Rights Management Services for all critical server issues.

“Irrespective of the business being small or large, when the consumer chooses iYogi, he leverages the potential of an elite taskforce of Microsoft Certified System Engineers and Cisco Certified Network Associates, ready to service their critical assets, using the most advanced network asset tracking and Performance monitoring”, adds Challu.

Another factor where the Company aims to distinguish itself from its competitors is product pricing. Embracing the concept of service quality, iYogi offers competitively priced technical support services at no-haggle, low prices.

As for its small business support, the Company has integrated its exclusive Monitoring and Alerting Services under one price umbrella of just $480 annually. per server i.e. $49.99 per month. The price is certainly hard to find anywhere else.

For more information on iYogi Small Business Support, visit http://www.iyogibusiness.com/

Contact Details:
Company Name: iYogi Technical Services Pvt Ltd
Address: iYogi Inc.
12 Desbrosses Street
3rd Floor
New York, NY 10013
Toll Free no:1-800-237-3901
Work Number: 1-212-229-0901
Fax Number: 1-888-867-2715
E-Mail: awadhesh.singh@iyogi.net

iYogi Secures $9.5M in Series B Funding Led by SAP Ventures, With Follow-on Investment from Canaan Partners and SVB India Capital Partners

2008-07-25T11:58:00.000-07:00

iYogi Secures $9.5M in Series B Funding Led by SAP Ventures, With Follow-on Investment from Canaan Partners and SVB India Capital Partners
iYogi, a Direct-to-Consumer and Small Business Technical Support Provider, Paves the Way for Personal Offshoring to Become India’s Next Success Story

New York, 24 July, 2008: Personal Offshoring, which is driving the next wave of India’s outsourcing success story, got a huge boost today when iYogi - a remote technical support provider from India - raised $ 9.5 million in Series B financing from SAP Ventures, a division of SAP AG, Canaan Partners and SVB India Capital Partners, a venture fund affiliate of Silicon Valley Bank.

iYogi (www.iyogi.net) delivers technical support services directly to consumers and small businesses and is the first, global, technical support brand based out of India. The company offers its customers an unlimited, annual service subscription for $119.99 per desktop that includes support for a wide range of technologies, including PC hardware Microsoft Windows operating system, software applications, peripherals and multifunctional devices.

“Personal Offshoring has created new investment opportunities in India with incredible growth potential,” said Doug Higgins, partner at SAP Ventures. “It is very exciting to see companies like iYogi challenging the traditional enterprise-focused offshore-service delivery model by creating a consumer-focused, direct-to-customer personal offshore model. iYogi is one of the fastest-growing companies in this market segment, and we look forward to working with them to create India’s next success story.”

“Our focus on the customer experience has helped us achieve a 93 percent satisfaction rate across more than 50,000 customers,” said Uday Challu, CEO of iYogi. “We are delighted to have the support of three terrific investors as we increase our market share and continue to provide the best technical support experience possible for our customers.”

iYogi will use the funds to fuel its expansion into 12 new regions, including the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada, and to increase its delivery of new services including PC recovery, anti-virus/spyware, data back-up and PC optimization.

“As consumer technologies grow in sophistication, consumers will be seeking the kind of home IT support services – including remote services offered by companies such as iYogi – to help them solve their most complex problems,” said Kurt Scherf, vice president and principal analyst, Parks Associates. “In primary research, we found more than one-third of consumers are willing to pay for competent and professional remote support services, and 60% express a strong interest in software solutions – what we refer to as ‘PC Dashboards’ – that automate many basic PC performance enhancement and troubleshooting features, solving many PC-related problems before they even are noticed by end-users.”

iYogi had previously raised $3.1 million in Series A financing from Canaan Partners and SVB in April of last year. “iYogi is one of the most promising investments for Canaan Partners,” said Alok Mittal, managing director of India at Canaan Partners. “Third-party, vendor-independent technical support is an exciting new service category, witnessing explosive growth. Customers are looking beyond the traditional vendor-provided support to remote channels for better problem resolution, faster service, and greater overall satisfaction. iYogi has created an incredible value proposition and price offering for its customers that is hard to beat.”

”Several next generation outsourcing companies from India are delivering a range of personal offshoring services for individuals and small businesses in the U.S. including online tutoring, tax preparation, remote executive assistance and research services,” said Suresh Shanmugham, managing director of SVB India Capital Partners, a venture fund affiliate of Silicon Valley Bank. “iYogi has leveraged the technical skills available in India along with process expertise to scale as a global technical support provider for millions faced with increasingly complex technology”.

About SAP Ventures
SAP Ventures invests in innovative and disruptive software and services companies globally. We pursue opportunities across all stages for outstanding financial return. Our goal is to bring substantial benefit to all parties by facilitating interaction between portfolio companies and SAP and its ecosystem of customers and partners. SAP Ventures has a successful track record of building industry-leading companies by partnering with outstanding entrepreneurs and top-tier venture capital firms since 1996. For more information, visit www.sapventures.com.

About Canaan Partners

Canaan Partners is a global venture capital firm specializing in early-stage information technology and life sciences companies. Founded in 1987, Canaan Partners has $2.4 billion capital under management and has invested in more than 240 companies, completed 63 mergers and acquisitions, and brought over 50 companies public. The firm catalyzes the development of innovative mobile, Internet, CleanTech, networking, semiconductor, enterprise software and services, biotechnology and medical technologies to build next-generation market leaders. Canaan was an early investor in Acme Packet (APKT), Aperto Networks, BharatMatrimony.com, Blurb, DoubleClick (DCLK), ID Analytics, Match.com and SuccessFactors, along with dozens of other market-leading companies. Canaan is headquartered in Menlo Park, California and also has offices in Connecticut, India and Israel. For more information visit: www.canaan.com.

SVB India Capital Partners Fund and Silicon Valley Bank

SVB India Capital Partners Fund is a $54 million equity fund that is focused on Indian companies and co-invests across industries and stages with top-tier venture capital firms. Silicon Valley Bank is the premier commercial bank for emerging, growth and mature companies in the technology, life science, private equity and premium wine industries. Founded in 1983 and headquartered in Santa Clara, Calif., the company serves clients around the world through 27 U.S. offices and five international operations. Silicon Valley Bank is a member of global financial services firm SVB Financial Group, with SVB Analytics, SVB Capital, SVB Global and SVB Private Client Services. More information on the company can be found at www.svb.com.

About iYogi

iYogi is the first direct-to-consumer and small business technical support service from India. Providing an annual unlimited subscription to technical support for $119.99 per year, iYogi now boasts more than 50,000 customers. The company employs 450 professionals servicing customers in the U.S., U.K., Canada fast expanding to 12 new geographies across the globe. iYogi’s resolution rate of 87 percent and customer satisfaction rate of 93 percent are amongst the highest published benchmarks in the industry. For further information, please visit www.iyogi.net.

SAP and all SAP logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of SAP AG in Germany and in several other countries. All other product and service names mentioned are the trademarks of their respective companies

Any statements contained in this document that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements as defined in the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “project,” “predict,” “should” and “will” and similar expressions as they relate to SAP are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. SAP undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations The factors that could affect SAP's future financial results are discussed more fully in SAP's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), including SAP's most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the SEC. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of their dates.

The information contained herein is subject to change without notice. iYogi shall not be liable for technical or editorial errors or omissions contained herein.

SAP and all SAP logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of SAP AG in Germany and in several other countries.
All other product and service names mentioned are the trademarks of their respective companies.

Any statements contained in this document that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements as defined in the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “project,” “predict,” “should” and “will” and similar expressions as they relate to SAP are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. SAP undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations The factors that could affect SAP's future financial results are discussed more fully in SAP's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), including SAP's most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the SEC. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of their dates.

Contact:

Company Name:
iYogi Technical Services Pvt Ltd

Address:
iYogi Inc.
12 Desbrosses Street
3rd Floor
New York, NY 10013

Toll Free no: 1-800-237-3901

Work Number: 1-212-229-0901

F ax Number: 1-888-867-2715

Don't delay purchase of XP System with virus help

2008-06-12T02:22:00.000-07:00

If you have been postponing buying a computer with the microsoft windows xp Operating System (OS) not being sure you want XP or Microsoft's new Vista, you had better hurry. June 30 is the last day computers can be sold with XP installed. And Microsoft will stop selling XP altogether on January 31, 2009.

Windows XP is the most widely used OS in the world and even though it is being “discontinued.” Microsoft will continue to offer “mainstream support” until April 14, 2009 and XP will receive “extended support” through April 8, 2014.

What does this mean for you? The “mainstream support” for XP will provide free fixes for both security patches and other bugs. This support will be available for everyone that purchased a copy of XP. The “extended support” will provide security updates but will only provide non-security “hot fixes” to companies that have signed computer help and support contracts with Microsoft. Therefore, if you are using XP and want to continue using it for the next few years, you will need to have installed the latest service pack within one year of its release for continued support. This means you must be running XP Service Pack 2 one year prior to the 2014 deadline for 'extended support'.

There are many good reasons to switch to Vista, one being its improved speed. However, if you want to continue using XP, you can improve its speed with a few simple changes.

Visual effects can drain performance speed — especially if your computer is already laboring. If you don't mind loosing the eye-candy, you can increase speed by going to Control Panel — System — Advanced tab. In the Performance area, click Settings. From Visual Effects choose Custom option. Here you may clear as many of the “check boxes” as you like. Most of the time you will not notice any significant difference as long as you leave 'Smooth edges of screen fonts' and “Use visual styles on windows and buttons.” Click OK twice and the changes will apply.

You can also improve XP speed by optimizing your Internet connection. Visit www.speedguide.com/downloads.php for a free TCP optimizer download. No installation required. Just download and run.

A regular maintenance program will keep your XP program running for many years. Consider the following as part of your weekly maintenance program. Back-up your computer, especially important files.

Run virus help and spyware scans regularly. If you are on the Internet above average, these programs should be run weekly at a minimum.

Make sure your Microsoft software is updated and current. The easiest way to accomplish this is to enable automatic updates.

Perform a Clean Disk. This can be done through Programs í System Tools í Disk Clean. When performing a 'clean disk' use the default setting.

Making any change can be a difficult decision. So if you are comfortable with your XP program and don't want to make the change to Vista; the above maintenance program can virus help you keep XP running at top speed.

Have a computer question on a particular topic you would like to see covered? Send me an email at Moncrief@startel.net. Be sure to 'whitelist' my email address so you can receive my reply. Visit Computer Bytes at www.moncriefwebdesign.com where all past articles are available on line. Till next time “Happy Surfing.”

Source : palestineherald.com/opinion/local_story_164020405.html?keyword=topstory

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Emergency online computer support

2008-06-05T04:51:00.000-07:00

The Tampa City Council is scheduled to vote Thursday on purchasing a new police radio system. The acquisition is long overdue.

Tampa's antiquated system can't communicate directly with the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office and other first responders. Such calls must be "patched" through a communications center. The system is plagued by static and transmission dead zones.

It's dismaying that seven years after the 9/11 terrorist attacks highlighted the importance of communication among all emergency personnel, Tampa continues to limp along with an obsolete system.

This will change in a hurry if the city goes along with a proposal to buy a $9 million M/A-COM system, the same system used by the Hillsborough Sheriff's Office.

The company was the low bidder for the online computer support contract by about $1.4 million, but its proposal offers other savings as well.

Hillsborough Sheriff David Gee has offered to give local agencies access to his online computer support network and towers. By acquiring the same system, the city will be spared these costs - plus the need to locate tower sites and obtain permits. The city also will save $300,000 a year in maintenance costs, which the sheriff's office pays.

Gee says footing the bill serves all Hills borough taxpayers, including Tampa residents. "I look at it like I can double my force when there is an emergency and Tampa Police Chief Steve Hogue can double his force. It helps our officers and it helps citizens."

While the county had some computer problems when it first purchased M/A-COM in the mid-1990s, the bugs were soon worked out and it has proved reliable since. The system has been consistently updated. Florida uses M/A-COM for emergency communications and it received high marks during the disastrous hurricane season of 2004.

The other bidder, Motorola, has a quality product as well, but its bid was higher and it can't offer the operational savings or immediate connection of the M/A-COM arrangement, which is endorsed by the city administration.

A Department of Homeland Security grant will provide the bulk of the funding, though the city will contribute $1 million. Another $1 million will come from the Tampa Police Department's law enforcement trust fund.

The proposal provides an economical way to dramatically improve emergency communications and better protect first responders and the public. Council should approve the deal.

Source:http://www2.tbo.com/content/2008/jun/04/na-emergency-radio-compatibility-overdue/

Wi-Fi users vulnerable to computer viruses

2008-05-30T03:55:00.000-07:00

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. - The FBI recently issued an alert warning that wireless Internet networks, often called Wi-Fi hotspots, are more vulnerable to hackers than most users probably realize.

Wi-Fi hotspots are at airports, fast food restaurants, book stores, coffee shops, sports bars, school campuses, malls, supermarkets - just about everywhere. Several cities and neighborhoods host or plan to install networks for residents.

For everyone to be able to access the networks, though, security has to be low. That means that often there is no password or registration needed to use the service, and E-mails and instant messages are not encrypted.

Those settings make it very easy for a hacker working from anywhere around the world to use computer codes to peek into your computer and steal sensitive online virus information.

"It’s a risky environment," said Derek Kerton, a computer analyst and consultant in San Jose, Calif. "It’s like we’ve left the door open to the house."

But just like a steering wheel lock or car alarm can deter a thief, an up-to-date firewall installed on your computer is the first line of defense against a hacker, Kerton said.

Firewalls, though, don’t protect information sent to and from a computer, such as e-mails and instant messages, or IMs. So you shouldn’t e-mail or IM when on a Wi-Fi network unless your workplace or other institution has given you access to a virtual private network, or VPN. The VPN is a secure network that encrypts information sent to and from your computer.

Victims often don’t know that they’ve been hacked until their personal online virus help information or identity has been stolen.

Here are some tips from the FBI and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement on how to keep your personal computer data safe:

Make sure your laptop security is up to date. That includes firewall, anti virus and anti-spyware software. Spyware is a kind of program that can collect information from your computer without your knowledge. It’s sometimes used by companies that want to collect marketing information about people who log on to their Web site, but spyware has also been used by hackers who want to mine information from someone’s computer.

When using a public Wi-Fi service, avoid logging into financial accounts of any kind because hackers might be able to monitor your computer from another location to see what you are typing and steal your login information. For the same reason, you also want to avoid logging into e-mail accounts and instant messaging services.

When logging on to a site, glance at the address bar to check that you’re at an authentic Web page. Hackers set up fake Web pages that look like the real thing to trick people into typing in their log-in information.

But you can tell which are the fake pages by glancing at the address bar. If the address is different from what you originally typed, don’t enter your personal information. Close your browser and leave the Wi-Fi network.

Don’t use the same password for all your online accounts. That way if hackers steal a password, they won’t be able to use it at more than one Web site.

Make sure your computer does not automatically log on to wireless networks. You can do this by adjusting the Internet security settings on your computer. As an added precaution, turn the computer off when you’re not around to ensure that it’s not picking up a wireless network signal.

Source : http://www.bostonherald.com/business/technology/general/view.bg?articleid=1096994