News of data breaches is all too common. This company apologizes for six million accounts breached. That company acknowledges hackers accessed 35,000 users’ personal identifiable information. But the question that probably matters most: Is your data breached, too?
The company should contact you if your information is in a data leak, but you can’t rely on that. You can also find out if your phone number or email address has been leaked by visiting https://haveibeenpwned.com/.
HaveIBeenPwned has uploaded various breaches and consolidated the information to make searching easy. Enter your address and get a list of breaches that compromised that email. You’ll get a summary paragraph as well as a description of data compromised in each breach.
It is not uplifting reading!
Next, the question is what to do about your breached information.
Steps to Better Security
First, change your passwords for those breached accounts. If you use that same password to access other accounts, change those passwords, as well, even if they are not listed as leaked.
Always avoid reusing passwords. Yes, it can be a hassle to remember many different access credentials, but you risk exposing many accounts if you keep reusing one email address and password combo over and again.
Make using unique passwords for all accounts easier by using a password manager. A manager can store your many passwords in one place and generate strong ones to use. You can often download an app to your mobile device, which gives you the convenience of filling in your credentials when you’re on the go, too.
The next step is to use two-factor authentication (2FA).
Understanding 2FA
This adds a layer of difficulty for hackers trying to access your accounts. Even if they had your username and password, they would need a second way to verify your identity.
Using 2FA requires you to provide one of the following before you can gain access:
something you know (e.g. the answer to a secret question);
something you have (e.g. your smartphone);
something you are (e.g. your fingerprint).
A bad actor would need to have not only your leaked credentials but also your other “something.”
A common approach to FA is an SMS text message or voice-based authentication. You enter your credentials, then the site follows up with a text or phone call providing a separate code you must then enter. This is not the best method, however. Scammers can hack the SIM card associated with your device, and then use your number to make and receive calls and texts.
Software tokens for 2FA are a safer solution. You’ll download and install an application on your phone (e.g. Google Authenticator, Authy or Okta Verify). It can generate a unique verification code that is valid only for 30-60 seconds.
Want to learn more about password management and soft-token 2FA. We’re here to help. Contact us today at (651) 456-8655 or send us a message from our Contact page.
Gaming on Laptop Dust: Life and Performance- 1/24/2023
Let’s be real: most gamers rely on performance and higher usage frequency to achieve success and move on to the next level. These are two factors to take into consideration when discussing why a computer, specifically a laptop, should be periodically cleaned. And I’m not talking about PUPs, bloatware, viruses, or other software stuff. I’m talking about hardware and dust and debris accumulation. And you can “game” the accumulation of dust at some point!
Here’s an example case
Last week I had a client come in with a high-end ASUS ROG gaming laptop. He complained about higher than normal operating temperatures, especially under higher than normal GPU loads. In my process of diagnosis, I opened up his laptop and noticed both the CPU and GPU fans were caked with dust, and the GPU fan was not spinning. My conclusion was that rather than clean the fans and heatsinks, the best plan of action, being that the GPU fan was bad, was to replace both the GPU and CPU fans. Most fans have a lifecycle, and it’s my belief that if a laptop has two fans, it’s always best to replace them both at the same time. They are rather inexpensive. This saves you the cost and effort of replacing the other fan shortly down the road. The client agreed, and we proceeded with the quotation for the work to be performed. In terms of fan replacement, traditional productivity laptops are fairly straightforward. However, higher-end gaming laptops are a bit more difficult and involved. There are multiple theories we can come up with as to why the GPU fan failed, but two theories come to mind in this case. 1.) The fan simply reached the end of its lifecycle. 2.) The buildup of dust and debris caused excessive heat and resistance on the fan. I’m more apt to think #2 was the case here based on the overall age of the laptop.
Not every case is the same
Now, I’m not saying that every case will require fan replacement. In most cases, you’ll only need thorough dust removal within the chassis. Taking a can of compressed air and blowing it through the laptop vents is absolutely the wrong approach. This just moves the dust around the inside of your computer, which blankets the motherboard. It can also cause dust to wad up in the fan’s spin zone, causing an obstruction. Doing the job the right way involves opening up the laptop chassis and disassembling down to the motherboard level, removing the fan(s), cleaning the fan(s), removing the heatsink, cleaning the fins on the heatsink, and removing and reapplying thermal grease to the GPU and CPU. We then reassemble the laptop and run it through a benchmark test to monitor temperature levels.
If you are experiencing excessive operating temperatures or fan noise and are unsure of the inner-workings of your computer, feel free to contact the professionals at Twin Cities PC Repair at (651) 456-8655 or send us a message from our Contact page.
Now we could sell our clients a typical, heavily commercialized, residential computer security product, but why settle for less? Here at Twin Cities PC Repair, we have tested several computer security products and have arrived to the conclusion that most are riddled with bells and whistles you simply don’t need. What does this mean? It means that the products slam your system performance by heavily utilizing system resources such as memory, CPU and hard drive.
What are we offering?
A simplified, yet powerful, product known as Emsisoft Business Security! Emsisoft’s ideal is a malware-protected world, a place where home and business computer security is engineered to perfection. Emsisoft produces innovative anti-malware solutions that are efficient, powerful, unobtrusive, and minimalistic. Emsisoft’s software effectively detects new threats before your computer is compromised. All of their products do their job perfectly; keeping your digital world safe. Emsisoft Business Security leaves your computer’s power where it belongs: with you.
Let’s Discuss Key Features…
FINDING AND REMOVING MALWARE
Dual-engine virus and malware detection – Emsisoft (A) and Bitdefender (B) engines work together to detect all types of malicious software, including viruses, ransomware,
trojans, bots, keyloggers, spyware and more. Signatures for double-detections are avoided for memory use and speed optimization.
Super fast system scans (1-2 min) – Scan your device quickly and thoroughly using our efficient dual-engine scanner. Scan time varies depending on which scan type you
select.
PUP/Potentially Unwanted Programs detection – Alerts you of potentially unwanted programs (adware, browser toolbars, system optimizers, etc.) that can affect your device’s
performance.
Advanced infection cleaning – Smart operation processes ensure the safety and stability of the computer during system cleaning. Checks 70+ autorun/loading
points including hidden ones used by rootkits and restores default values if they have been overwritten by malware.
There’s More! – Click HERE to download a full feature list in PDF format.
PREVENTING NEW INFECTIONS
Multi-layered real-time protection – We use diverse technologies and multiple layers of security to maximize our solutions’ protection capabilities.
Web Protection – Blocks access to known dangerous websites using a frequently updated block list. Web Protection is host-based and works across all
programs, even if the transferred web data is encrypted.
Anti-phishing – Blocks access to known fraudulent websites that try to steal online banking passwords or identity details.
Browser security – Browser extension/addon for Chrome, Firefox and Edge that blocks access to dangerous websites on a URL level. Uses a privacyconscious design that doesn t track your browsing history or break your SSL encryption chain.
There’s More! – Click HERE to download a full feature list in PDF format.
CENTRALIZED MANAGEMENT
Management Console – Centralized security management has never been easier. As part of our daily client endpoint monitoring duties (Included in your subscription), we monitor the protection status of your devices and we’ll reach out to you immediately if we notice any areas of concern. This also includes system performance monitoring such as, memory performance, hard drive performance and any Windows generated errors. Your security and privacy are of utmost importance! We do not have the ability to monitor your file system or any personal information on your device(s).
Windows & Third-Party Patching – Also, included in your monthly subscription, we review and deploy Windows and third-party software patches to your device(s). We test & review all patches before deployment, ensuring your have a healthy and up-to-date system!
There’s More! – Click HERE to download a full feature list in PDF format.
If you’d like to subscribe, request additional information, or are looking for a free consultation of your PC’s current security status, please call our security professionals at (651) 456-8655 or send us an email by visiting our Contact page! Only $9.99/mo/device. No contract. Cancel anytime.
SIM Jacking, What is it and Why Should You Care? – 12/27/2022
If you play the popular SIMS life-simulation video game, you could think SIM jacking means someone takes over your characters, but the reality is even worse. SIM jacking is a type of identity theft targeting your real-life identity via your phone.
In SIM jacking a bad actor uses the subscriber identity module (SIM) card associated with your cellphone number to make calls, send texts, and use data. This has several potential negative outcomes:
Your phone bill goes off the charts with international calling and data usage fees.
They might impersonate you by sending texts to scam your friends and family.
They can sign up for new email and social media accounts using your phone number.
Most importantly? They can use your phone number and SIM card to sign into your personal accounts. Many of us use text messaging for authentication. That’s when a site, say your bank, sends a code to your phone to confirm it’s you.
Now, imagine the criminal has access to your bank account through a leaked password. Whereas they couldn’t get in before because of two-factor authentication, they now have your SIM card, too. That means the SMS to authenticate your account also goes to them. They’re in, and you’re out.
How Does SIM Jacking Work?
Typically it starts, as so many cyberattacks do, with phishing. You might get a text or email that looks like it is from the cellphone carrier that asks you to click on a link. It might tell you there’s been suspicious activity on your account or that your bill is past due. It’s usually something that will make you anxious and feel the need to act urgently.
You’re taken to a fake website where you provide your name, address, cell phone number, and date of birth. With the right information, the scammer contacts your phone carrier and asks for a new SIM card. Once they have that in hand, they access your account and take over your cellphone. If they pair that with leaked credentials, they can really do damage.
If you’ve been SIM jacked, you’ll find out after the fact. You will no longer have a signal connection, so you won’t be able to send texts or make or receive calls. You may also have difficulty signing into the hacked accounts.
If you do think you’ve been SIM jacked, contact your carrier ASAP. Also, change your passwords and let your friends and family know. Otherwise, they might fall victim to a malware attack that appears to come from you.
Protect Yourself from SIM Jacking
Be careful with your personal information. Be wary of any requests to share your sensitive information online. Avoid taking action based on text messages or emails from people you don’t know and trust.
Protect yourself by using an authentication app such as Google Authenticator or Authy. Do this instead of using text messages to authenticate yourself online.
Always update the applications on your smartphone. Yes, it seems like there are constantly new updates, but they can be protecting you from vulnerabilities.
You might also get a request to restart your phone. This is a common sign your SIM card has been hacked. If you do it, you’ll lose control of your SIM card. So, call your carrier first.
It’s also a good idea to regularly review your phone bills for any charges that you don’t recognize.
Want to protect your online activity? Our IT experts can help update your applications and identify any vulnerabilities. Contact us today at (651) 456-8655 or email us from our Contact page.
You may not think about it much, but your computer needs a graphics processing unit (GPU). The GPU allows you to see multimedia content and renders the graphics of your video games. It can also accelerate high-performance computing. The good news? It’s no longer as difficult to get a new graphics card at a reasonable price.
A global shortage of GPUs in 2021 made it challenging to obtain new graphics cards. That could stall repairs and upgrades. Plus, people who wanted to build their own computers struggled to do so. If you did find a GPU available, you could expect to pay much more than usual. Scalpers were also buying the chips up and charging exorbitant prices.
One problem was that major chip manufacturers were struggling to source silicon. It’s needed for the semiconductor functionality of GPUs. The pandemic slowed and even stopped production at some of the largest silicon manufacturers.
It didn’t help any that cryptocurrency miners were buying up GPUs, too. They needed the processing power to mine efficiently.
Why the GPU shortage is over
Fortunately, the GPU storage is ending. GPU manufacturers continued developing chips while waiting for the silicon semiconductors they needed. Now that those are back online, the graphics card companies can quickly make up for lost time.
At the same time, GPUs are no longer the best option for cryptomining. Instead, they have been replaced by more efficient application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs).
What happens next?
Actually, a surplus of older GPUs is expected, as a new generation of GPUs has arrived.
A new GPU series means manufacturers and computer parts stores will look to clear inventory. They’ll want to sell off older GPUs to make room for the new product.
This can be good news. You can expect prices of the previous generation of technology to come down. Plus, you can take advantage of the GPU surplus to replace a failing GPU. Or you can now upgrade your graphics card more affordably.
Get in the GPU Game
Want help upgrading your GPU or evaluating if your computer can handle the new GPUs coming in a few months? Our experts can help. Call today (651) 456-8655 or check out our contact page and send us an email. One of our technicians will reach out to you!
Attention Gamers! Christmas is almost here!! Looking for a way to spend that gift money? Trust the professional systems builders at Twin Cities PC Repair… We can source any or all compatible PC gaming components and build you a sweet gaming pc. Skip the bloatware and get exactly what you need…. A powerfully fast gaming PC!
Big-box stores have big names and aisles of computers on offer. They post tempting deals on pre-built computers. But how does buying one of those computers compare to purchasing a custom-built one?
When you shop in a big-box store, you are one of the many people those salespeople are going to work with in a day. If you’re lucky, you may get to speak with someone actually assigned to the computer area on a regular basis.
Working with us to customize a computer, you get individualized expert service. Our specialists know computer users have different needs. You deserve a computer that matches what you’re trying to do. You might want to run the latest-and-greatest games at full graphic quality. Someone else wants something basic to support only email and Web surfing. Or how about a stock day trader who doesn’t need a fast computer but wants to run six screens at once?
It may be easier to walk into a big-box store and walk out with a desktop computer, but the big-box computer aims to appeal to everyone; it isn’t customized to each of these different aims.
Problems with Pre-Built Computers
The computers sold for less in big-box stores have cut corners to bring down costs. They can use lower-quality parts. There’s also limit to upgradability of the parts. Prebuilt brand-name systems often use proprietary parts unique to that manufacturer. This makes it difficult and expensive to replace a part.
You could end up saving money by paying for a system that has only 4 GB of RAM. Sure, the sticker price was lower, but your computer won’t run as well. Today, you need a computer with at least 8 GB of RAM. Depending on how you plan to use the computer, we might even suggest 16 GB.
The big-box stores sell computers from brand-name manufacturers pre-loaded with bloatware. The manufacturer keeps prices down by installing unwanted software in return for kickbacks. So, you paid less, but your computer runs slower from day one because it’s brimming with software you didn’t want. A customized computer comes only with what you need.
Our specialists can explain the benefits of the processing, power supply, and other parts. Picking every part of your computer, you can also count on high-quality parts that are easy to upgrade.
A Personal, Expert Relationship
Another selling point for big-box stores is the warranty. This is one more way they’re making money off the sale of your computer. But keep in mind that most of these stores aren’t going to fix your computer on-site. You explain your problem to a retail employee – again, maybe someone knowledgeable about computers (fingers crossed). Then you wait as the computer gets sent into a central repair base, where someone you haven’t spoken with is working on your computer. Then you wait for the computer to come back, hopefully fixed. Something that would take our experts 30 minutes to fix has you waiting a week. That’s a big deal if you depend on that computer on a daily basis.
When you buy from computer specialists, you’re working with a qualified computer technician. You’re building a relationship with someone who knows you and your computer, and you’ll always know where your computer is during the repair process. Additionally, since all parts are hand-picked, you might enjoy individual part warranties.
Building your own computer in the past was expensive, but today there are many more high-quality parts available. Your computer customizer can offer you affordable, reliable cases, RAM, hard drives, fans, GPUs, CPUs, and cooling, and they can help you weigh the benefits of each.
Whether you’re looking for an entry-level or high-end gaming machine, we can customize the best computer for you.
Why settle for a standard, pre-built option made to appeal to the largest number of people? Contact our experts today to start putting together your purpose-built, personalized gaming PC. Call (651) 456-8655 or visit our contact page HERE.
Click HERE to learn more about our custom PC’s.
What You Need to Know About Browser Extension Risks – 12/6/2022
With “Googling it” now a common expression, it’s safe to say you do a lot online. To do it all you’re using a Web browser (such as Chrome, Edge, Firefox, etc.). To do it all more efficiently or effectively, you could be using browser extensions, but this article is going to warn you against doing so.
To clarify, browser extensions are code add-ons that you connect to your browser. You can use them to personalize your surfing experience, and they accomplish many different things, including:
saving time (e.g. Scribe, Evernote, StayFocusd);
checking your grammar (e.g. Grammarly);
managing your passwords (e.g. Keeper, LastPass);
securing your online activity (e.g. DuckDuckGo, Ghostery)
Even though we’ve just said they can help secure your online activity and manage your passwords, the problem is that they are also risky.
Consider the fact that we said this represents added code. Now, how much coding do you know? Most will say “not a lot.” That means you’re blindly trusting that browser extension.
If you download a malicious one, that code can wreak havoc. Suddenly, your default search engine gets changed, or you get redirected to a start page with malware on it. You might face an onslaught of pop-ups or ads. They can also track your browsing history without you knowing it.
That’s just the beginning
Many browsers today want to keep you safe from malevolent extensions. They’ll have permissions in place before allowing access. Yet you still end up giving that extension a lot of access. For example, an extension modifying google.com needs access to all your Google activity. That means your Gmail, too.
Browser extensions access everything you’re doing online. So, a malicious extension could also function as a keylogger capturing passwords or credit card details.
A browser extension can also be sold to or hijacked by a bad actor. Then, it’s easy enough for them to push out an update that turns your trusted extension into malware.
What to do about this issue
Does this mean you should do without browser extensions? There are even browser extensions out there to block other browser extensions, but abstinence from extensions is not your only solution.
Instead, we’d recommend reviewing the safety and credibility of that extension. This means you should:
Check to see who published the extension.
Look at the reviews. A high number of positive reviews is a good sign. Thousands of people are unlikely to give five stars to a malicious extension.
Pay attention to the permissions required. If an extension claims to modify only one website, check that it accesses that site only.
Protect yourself with a good antivirus solution.
Keep your antivirus solution and other software updated.
It’s also easier to stay safe by limiting the number of installed extensions you use. If you have browser extensions that you aren’t using, uninstall them. This can cut your exposure to potential threats.
Another way to secure your online activity? Work with our IT experts. We can check permissions and review your extensions. We’ll also ensure your antivirus and software are up to date. Contact us today at (651) 456-8655 or visit our Contact page.
The holidays are busy. We’re trying to get work done to have some fun, and we’re hosting family and friends. Plus, parents that have the holiday Elf tradition must remember to move the doll every night. It’s a lot, and it can make us more likely to fall for scams that can lead to data theft.
Hackers like to take the path of least resistance. Why work harder than they have to for their ill-gotten gains? Instead, they’ll use social engineering to get you to give them your data or download their malware. Look out for these top holiday scams.
Parcel delivery scams
More people are expecting packages this time of year. Bad actors take advantage of this with what’s called a smishing scam. It’s a particular type of scam using text/SMS messaging. You get a message from a known service telling you a delivery needs rescheduling, or that there’s an outstanding fee that needs to be paid.
Recipients, who are already expecting a package, are quick to fall for the request. Clicking on the message link, they enter personal information or download malicious software.
Tip: Go to the source of the package you’re expecting and see what they’re saying about your package delivery.
E-card scams
Another common holiday season scam takes advantage of our enthusiasm for money. Scammers send e-cards to your email. When you click on the link, you’ll download a virus or other malware (e.g. ransomware).
Tip: Check the credibility of any e-card sender before downloading the “gift.”
Christmas hamper scams
Everyone wants to be a winner, but don’t fall for the scammer calling or emailing to say you’ve won a Christmas hamper. They’ll claim to be from a legit organization and have some of your personal information already. That helps them make it all seem genuine. Then, they’ll ask for you to provide more personal details to collect your prize or gift.
They may ask only for your full name, address, and phone number (if the request was emailed). They’ll be collecting this information for a more focused attack in the future.
Tip: Use strong passwords and be careful about what personal details you put on social media.
Fake websites
Many people shop sites that are unfamiliar to them at this time of year. Grandparents (even parents) know nothing about that latest trendy shop! Bad actors will set up fake sites offering gifts and services. They’re looking to get your personal details and money.
Tip: Prefer secure website addresses starting with “https” and displaying a locked padlock.
Shopping scams
Every season has its in-demand items. Scammers take advantage of this and set up ads for amazing deals on those items. Desperate to get this year’s toy for your toddler, you might be hooked. Or they’ll ensure people click on their ads by offering ridiculous deals. If you do get the item purchased via these ads, it’s likely to be a sub-par counterfeit.
Tip: Shop with retailers you know and trust.
Bank scams
This scam operates year-round, but bad actors have an edge in the holiday season when people spend more. Fraudsters typically call, text, or email as your bank having noticed suspicious activity. They get you feeling anxious and then urge you to take action (e.g. click a link or share personal details) to address the issue.
Tip: Remember that banks never use unsolicited calls to ask for personal details, pressure you to give information, or tell you to move your money to a safe account.
The tips shared throughout this article will help. At the same time, setting up password managers and antivirus software can also be useful. We can help you secure your online activity year-round. Contact us today at (651) 456-8655 or visit our Contact page.
Christmas time is back with us again. The latest devices and gadgets are hitting store shelves just in time to keep up with the rush. Magazines, television, and the web are brimming with advertisements and reviews of the latest tech your money can buy.
Before you rush out to buy the gadgets you’ve been waiting all year for, consider a few important questions before parting with your hard-earned cash.
Does This Technology Do What I need?
First, you must ask what problem you are trying to solve with a new piece of tech. The most important thing to consider is how adopting your new device will improve on what you had before.
In some cases, a sleek new gadget or device for fun is good too.
When you’ve answered this question, you should consider whether there is other tech or competing devices out there that can perform even better.
Should I Become an Early Adopter?
Early adopters are people that anticipate the release of new tech, wait in line on release day, and pride themselves on having the latest gadgets to hit the shelves. If you recognize yourself in this description you are likely to snap up the latest devices the day they are released. This eager anticipation, however, is not always the way to get the best deals or the best gadgets.
Companies often rely on new product hype to give sales an early boost. Waiting for the marketing and hype to subside, even a little, can save you a lot of money.
After initial sales fall, companies often mark down their prices to keep their devices attractive and sales high. When newer, faster, sleeker devices hit the market, companies cut prices to maintain strong sales figures. For the budget smart consumer this is an opportunity for a bargain. A device good enough to buy on launch day is well worth waiting for.
Have I checked The Reviews?
We are fortunate enough to have access to seemingly unlimited amounts of information at our fingertips. Often weeks before a product is released, reviews are available across the web.
One of the best things you can do when considering a new device, particularly a high-cost purchase, is to watch and read a wide variety of product reviews. It pays to be cautious of reviews that are particularly glowing, or too downbeat. Keep an eye out for middle of the road reviews that fairly weigh the pros and cons of each device.
Have I Found the Best Deal?
There are many ways to keep an eye out to make sure you get the best deal on your device. If you can, monitor prices over time to see how they rise and fall to find the best time to purchase.
When purchasing online, many sites include a box to add a coupon code when you are ready to buy. It sometimes pays to jump over to Google and search the website name and ‘coupon’ or ‘voucher’ to find out if there are any good deals on.
A quick search can save you as much as 10, 15, or 20 per cent on some purchases. Sometimes companies send out offers to appeal to groups they want to market to. A companies Facebook page may get different offers or vouchers than its Twitter followers or newsletter for example.
It can pay to search around for offers and vouchers to get money off before you checkout. Five minutes work can save huge amounts of cash.
Purchase in Confidence
If you have asked yourself these questions, done all your research, and found the answers you’re looking for then you may well be ready to buy.
You can do so with the confidence that you’ve done all your homework and you’re getting the best deal and gadget for your money.
Christmas is right around the corner! For gift-giving questions or pricing, give us a call today at (651) 456-8655 or visit our Contact page.
Stay Safe Shopping Online This Holiday Season – 11/10/22
Retail research tells us that over 75% of people are shopping online each month, and, with the holiday season upon us, you’re likely to be one of them. But don’t let the appeal of convenience distract you from the need to stay safe when shopping online.
The number of digital buyers is steadily climbing. In 2020, according to Statista, more than two billion people purchased goods or services online. During the same year, e-retail sales surpassed $4.2 trillion U.S. dollars worldwide.
Retailers are embracing the change in consumer behavior. But, do you know who else is taking advantage? Cybercrooks. Before you buy, consider these strategies to stay safe.
#1 Question that great deal
If a deal looks “too good to be true,” it probably is. You’re not going to get a new Apple laptop for $29.99, or the latest Beats headphones or Xbox gaming console for under $20. Anyone offering you that price is trying to lure you to their site to enter your payment details, so don’t be surprised when your product never arrives!
#2 Review seller feedback
While scrolling social media you see adverts for perfect gifts for someone on your list. And it’s so easy to click the link and buy! Still, before purchasing, take the time to research the seller.
Read the feedback from other buyers on independent sources. It adds only a few moments to check sites such as Trustpilot and Google My Business.
#3 Research the business domain
Think about it: who are you more likely to trust with your sensitive data? Someone who has been in business 10 years or someone who set up shop 10 days ago? Quickly check how long a business website has been around. Enter the URL into the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers’ lookup tool [https://lookup.icann.org].
#4 Watch out for email scams
Before clicking on any offer links in emails, check the URL. You can hover over the link before actually redirecting there and check the target. Double-check that the address is to the site you’re expecting.
Also, slow down and be sure that the address doesn’t have any typos or atypical endings. You don’t want to confuse www.nike.com with www.n1ke.co and end up a victim of identity theft instead of the proud owner of the latest Air Max.
#5 Check payment site security
There are several ways to verify the security of a payment site. These include:
verifying that the site uses an SSL certificate – it will start with “https” instead of “http”;
checking for a physical address and phone number – call the contact number to confirm it is not fake;
reviewing the Terms and Conditions and Return and Privacy policies – any reputable brand has these!
#6 Pay with Online Payments
When you do decide to buy, prefer to pay using PayPal or another online payment tool. You won’t be giving the seller your credit card details. If you can’t take this approach, use a credit card from a credit account rather than debit. You will have more protection this way. You can start a chargeback through your credit card company when the item isn’t as advertised and the seller’s customer service doesn’t help.
Before online shopping, at any time of the year, update your operating system, and keep your anti-virus software current, too.
Our IT experts are here to help you keep your technology safe and secure year-round. Contact us today at (651) 456-8655 or visit our Contact page.
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Here’s an example case
vents is absolutely the wrong approach. This just moves the dust around the inside of your computer, which blankets the motherboard. It can also cause dust to wad up in the fan’s spin zone, causing an obstruction. Doing the job the right way involves opening up the laptop chassis and disassembling down to the motherboard level, removing the fan(s), cleaning the fan(s), removing the heatsink, cleaning the fins on the heatsink, and removing and reapplying thermal grease to the GPU and CPU. We then reassemble the laptop and run it through a benchmark test to monitor temperature levels.
your devices and we’ll reach out to you immediately if we notice any areas of concern. This also includes system performance monitoring such as, memory performance, hard drive performance and any Windows generated errors. Your security and privacy are of utmost importance! We do not have the ability to monitor your file system or any personal information on your device(s).
Stay Safe Shopping Online This Holiday Season – 11/10/22
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