Time once again for my updated guidelines on creating passwords. The short version: use passphrases that are at least 12 characters long and different on every site, plus two-factor authentication where possible. And for pity’s sake, stop using weak passwords! Many people say to me, “I don’t need a secure password. I don’t have anything … Continue reading How To Create Strong Passwords (2016 Edition)
Category: computer help
Security Basics For Mac Users
If you’re not protecting your Mac from Internet threats, your computer can easily be overcome by viruses and malware. But running antivirus isn’t enough. Mac users also need to be just as aware of scams, fake apps, and other Internet dangers as their Windows counterparts. Here are some resources to get you started. Mac Antivirus … Continue reading Security Basics For Mac Users
Cryptolocker: Why Modern Computer Viruses Are More Dangerous Than Ever
Today's computer viruses go beyond mere annoyance. How does holding your data for ransom sound? What about spying on you through your webcam, tracking your physical location, recording every keystroke you make? Welcome to the modern generation of computer threats, where infection means real-world consequences. The latest virus making the rounds is Cryptolocker, a textbook … Continue reading Cryptolocker: Why Modern Computer Viruses Are More Dangerous Than Ever
How To Protect Your Privacy On Social Media Sites Like Facebook And Twitter
When was the last time you checked the privacy settings on your social media accounts? Once? Twice? Never? If you don't check periodically, you run the risk of having your account hijacked by hackers. Related article: Strong passwords key to social media privacy by Triona Guidry (The Northwest Herald) What do you mean by "social … Continue reading How To Protect Your Privacy On Social Media Sites Like Facebook And Twitter
How To Secure Your Web Browser
Did you know that most viruses sneak onto your computer through your Web browser? Here's how you can secure your Internet surfing experience. Take a look at your Web browser(s) with the following advice in mind. Related Article: Eight Tips For Safer Web Browser Searching by Triona Guidry (The Northwest Herald) How To Clear Your … Continue reading How To Secure Your Web Browser
A Parent’s Guide To Protecting Your Kids Online
It's hard to protect kids online, because parents and educators often have a hard time finding resources that can help them understand the latest risks and recommendations. I've gathered a variety of information in one place so you can learn about antivirus, parental controls, and protecting your kids while using mobile devices and video games. … Continue reading A Parent’s Guide To Protecting Your Kids Online
Six Things Every PC User Needs To Know About Windows 8.1
The new Windows 8.1 affects you, even if you're still using previous versions of Windows. Here's what you need to know about the upgrade. First Rule of Windows 8.1: There Is No Start Menu Microsoft's been shouting it from the rooftops: "The Start button's back! The Start button's back!" Except that doesn't mean what you … Continue reading Six Things Every PC User Needs To Know About Windows 8.1
How To Backup And Restore Files On Your PC Or Mac
Everyone knows you're supposed to make backups, but choosing a method can be confusing. Here's a rundown of your choices for Windows and Mac. Related article: Today's Backups Offer More Flexibility by Triona Guidry (The Northwest Herald) Built-In Backups All modern computers come with utilities which you can use to back up to an external … Continue reading How To Backup And Restore Files On Your PC Or Mac
Hands-On With The BlackBerry Z10
I recently spent some quality time with the new BlackBerry Z10. The Z10 is a lightweight, keyboardless smart phone... wait, a keyboardless BlackBerry? How does that work? Let's find out. The Z10 has a 1.5GHz dual-core Qualcomm processor with 2GB of RAM and a 4.2-inch 1,280-by-768 LCD display at 356 pixels per inch. It's sized … Continue reading Hands-On With The BlackBerry Z10
How To Create Secure Passwords (Revised Edition)
Many people say to me, “I don’t need a secure password. I don’t have anything sensitive on my computer, so I don’t care if a hacker gets in.” You, my friends, are a hacker’s dream. Because it’s not necessarily your personal information they want, although they’ll happily steal your credit card info if they can. … Continue reading How To Create Secure Passwords (Revised Edition)
Simple Tech Tips for Home Computer Users 