Simple Tech Tips for Home Computer Users
Windows, Mac, and mobile tech support – networking – Internet safety – consumer technology
Virtual private networks are easy to use despite the complicated name. Let’s cut through the tech jargon and talk about how you can use a VPN to protect your home computer. To understand VPNs, we need to know a little about how the Internet works. Every online service, from Facebook to Amazon to your local … Continue reading How to Use a VPN to Protect Your Home Computer
Ransomware is a particularly nasty form of computer virus that encrypts your data, then demands payment for the encryption key. Why is ransomware so hazardous, and how can you remove it? Ransomware is vicious because it doesn’t just render your computer unusable. It encrypts all of your files, including those on networked computers, removable drives, … Continue reading Ransomware: A Dangerous Threat to Your Computer
A ransomware worm is rapidly taking over computers around the world. Here’s what you need to know to protect your computers and networks. This particular worm, known by several names including WannaCry and WCry, is a type of computer virus called ransomware. Ransomware, as regular Tech Tips readers know, is especially nasty because it hijacks … Continue reading Ransomware Spreads Across The Globe: How To Protect Your Computer
Ransomware is a particularly nasty form of computer virus that encrypts your data, then demands an electronic ransom for the encryption key. Why is ransomware so hazardous, and how can you remove it? Ransomware is vicious because it doesn’t just render your computer unusable. It encrypts all of your files, including those on networked computers, … Continue reading Ransomware: A Dangerous Threat To Your Computer
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)
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
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
