If there’s one major trend we’ve been seeing lately at Twin Cities PC Repair, it’s an increase in failing SSDs (Solid State Drives). While SSDs are still significantly faster and more reliable than traditional hard drives in many ways, they are not immune to failure — and when they fail, they often fail suddenly.
Across Bloomington, Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding Minnesota communities, more customers are bringing in computers that won’t boot, randomly freeze, or display “drive not detected” errors. In many cases, the culprit is a worn-out or failing SSD.
Over the last several years, SSD prices dropped dramatically, making them standard in nearly every laptop and desktop computer. Unfortunately, many lower-cost systems were built using budget SSDs with limited write endurance and lower-quality memory chips.
Now that many of these systems are reaching the 3–6 year age range, we’re starting to see those drives wear out.
Unlike older spinning hard drives that often gave warning signs like clicking noises or grinding sounds, SSDs can fail with little to no warning at all. One day your computer is working fine — the next day it may refuse to start.
Some common causes of SSD failure include:
NAND memory wear
Power surges
Excessive heat
Firmware corruption
Improper shutdowns
Low-quality storage controllers
Heavy read/write workloads
At Twin Cities PC Repair, we’re especially seeing increased SSD failures in gaming PCs, business laptops, and older Windows 10 systems preparing for Windows 11 upgrades.
Common Symptoms of a Failing SSD
If your computer has been acting strangely lately, your SSD could be the issue. Some warning signs include:
Extremely slow boot times
Programs freezing or crashing
Blue screen errors
Random restarts
Files disappearing or becoming corrupted
“No boot device found” messages
Windows repair loops
Clicking into folders causes freezing
Drive disappearing from BIOS
Many customers assume their computer has a virus when, in reality, the storage drive is beginning to fail.
Why Data Recovery Can Be Difficult on SSDs
Traditional hard drives sometimes allow partial recovery even after mechanical failure. SSDs are different.
Modern SSDs use a process called TRIM, which automatically clears deleted data blocks to improve performance. While this is great for speed, it can make professional data recovery much more difficult once the drive fails.
That’s why regular backups are more important than ever.
We strongly recommend:
Cloud backups
External drive backups
Automated backup software
Keeping important files in multiple locations
At Twin Cities PC Repair, we help customers throughout the Twin Cities set up affordable backup solutions to help prevent devastating data loss.
Heat Is a Bigger Problem Than Many Realize
One issue many people overlook is SSD heat buildup.
Today’s compact laptops and gaming systems often run extremely hot. NVMe SSDs, especially high-performance models, can generate substantial heat under heavy workloads. Over time, excessive heat accelerates wear and shortens the lifespan of storage components.
Dust-clogged cooling systems, failing fans, and poor airflow are all common contributors.
This is one reason regular computer maintenance remains important — especially for gaming PCs and workstations used for video editing, business applications, or heavy multitasking.
Windows 10 End-of-Life Is Also Contributing
Another factor we’re seeing is aging hardware being pushed harder as users prepare for Windows 11.
Many older systems originally designed for Windows 10 are beginning to struggle under newer updates and software demands. In some cases, SSDs that were already nearing the end of their lifespan are finally giving out during major Windows updates or system migrations.
If your computer is several years old and has never had its storage health checked, now is a smart time to do it.
We work with customers throughout Bloomington, Minneapolis, St. Paul, Burnsville, Eagan, Richfield, and surrounding Minnesota communities.
If your computer has been running slowly, freezing, or showing boot issues, don’t wait until the drive completely fails. Early diagnosis can often save your data and prevent more expensive repairs later.
Whether you need a new SSD upgrade, professional data migration, or help recovering important files, our team is here to help.
🎉 Twin Cities PC Repair 20th Anniversary Sale – Bloomington, MN
Twin Cities PC Repair is proud to celebrate 20 years of serving Minnesota communities with a special anniversary sale you won’t want to miss!
From April 20th through April 30th, enjoy 20% OFF all parts and labor* on every service we offer. Whether your computer needs a repair, upgrade, or a full tune-up, now is the perfect time to save.
For two decades, Twin Cities PC Repair has been the trusted local choice for residential computer repair, diagnostics, and custom solutions. Conveniently located near MSP Airport and Mall of America, we proudly serve Bloomington and surrounding communities with fast, reliable, and honest service.
🔧 Services Included in the Sale:
Laptop & desktop repair
Virus & malware removal
Hardware upgrades (SSD, RAM, etc.)
Custom-built computers
System tune-ups & performance optimization
Windows 10 & Windows 11 support
We’ve seen it all over the past 20 years—and we’re here to help keep your technology running smoothly.
💻 Why Choose Twin Cities PC Repair?
Locally owned & operated
20 years of trusted experience
Fast turnaround times
Honest, transparent pricing
Personalized one-on-one service
Don’t wait—this limited-time anniversary offer ends April 30th!
The Future of PC Technology: How AI, Faster Hardware, and Advanced Displays Are Changing Computers in 2026 – 1/5/2026
The world of PC technology is evolving faster than ever, and for businesses and consumers alike, staying informed is essential. At Twin Cities PC Repair, we help customers across Minneapolis–St. Paul understand, upgrade, and repair modern systems built for today’s demands—and tomorrow’s innovations. From AI-powered components to ultra-fast storage and immersive displays, new PC technology is redefining what computers can do.
AI Integration Is Now a Core Feature of Modern PCs
Artificial intelligence is no longer just software—it’s becoming built directly into hardware. Modern PCs now include specialized AI processors, such as neural processing units (NPUs), that handle AI workloads more efficiently than traditional CPUs. These processors improve performance for tasks like photo and video editing, voice recognition, background noise reduction, cybersecurity monitoring, and workflow automation.
For professionals and creators, AI-powered PCs can dramatically reduce rendering times, automate repetitive tasks, and enhance productivity. For everyday users, AI helps optimize system performance, battery life, and security behind the scenes.
GPU Advancements: NVIDIA 50-Series and AI-Powered Graphics
One of the biggest drivers of innovation is the next generation of graphics cards, including NVIDIA’s 50-series GPUs. These GPUs aren’t just about gaming—they’re designed to accelerate AI workloads, machine learning models, 3D rendering, and real-time ray tracing.
Gamers benefit from higher frame rates and more realistic visuals, while professionals in design, engineering, and content creation gain faster processing for demanding applications. As GPUs become more powerful and energy-efficient, they also require better thermal management—something our technicians at Twin Cities PC Repair frequently address with custom cooling upgrades.
AMD CPUs and More Efficient Processing Power
AMD continues to push CPU innovation with processors that deliver more cores, better power efficiency, and improved multitasking. These CPUs are ideal for professionals who run multiple applications simultaneously or work with large datasets.
When paired with AI acceleration and modern GPUs, AMD CPUs help create balanced systems that excel at both performance and reliability. Choosing the right CPU for your needs is critical, and our local PC repair experts help customers avoid bottlenecks and overheating issues.
Advanced Cooling Solutions for High-Performance PCs
With faster hardware comes more heat. Modern PCs now rely on advanced cooling solutions, including liquid cooling, vapor chambers, and intelligent fan systems. Proper cooling not only improves performance but also extends the lifespan of your PC components.
At Twin Cities PC Repair, we often see systems slow down due to dust buildup or outdated cooling setups. Regular maintenance and cooling upgrades are essential for high-end gaming PCs and professional workstations.
Faster SSDs: Sandisk Optimus and Next-Gen Storage
Storage speed has become just as important as processing power. New SSDs like the Sandisk Optimus deliver lightning-fast read and write speeds, reducing boot times, accelerating file transfers, and improving overall system responsiveness.
For creators working with large video files or businesses handling massive data sets, next-generation SSDs are a game changer. Upgrading storage is one of the most cost-effective ways to improve PC performance, and it’s a service we frequently provide in the Twin Cities area.
OLED Displays and Immersive Visual Experiences
Display technology is also taking a major leap forward. OLED monitors and laptops offer deeper blacks, higher contrast ratios, and stunning color accuracy. These displays are perfect for designers, photographers, video editors, and gamers who demand immersive visuals.
As more users invest in high-quality displays, ensuring your PC’s graphics hardware is compatible and optimized becomes increasingly important.
Preparing for the Future: Quantum Computing and AI Access Points
While quantum computing isn’t yet mainstream, the PC industry is already preparing for it. Future systems will rely on AI-driven access points, where local PCs work alongside cloud-based AI and quantum resources. This shift will require adaptable hardware, secure systems, and ongoing upgrades.
Trust Twin Cities PC Repair for Future-Ready Technology
As PC technology advances, expert guidance matters more than ever. Whether you need upgrades, repairs, performance optimization, or advice on building a future-ready system, Twin Cities PC Repair is your trusted local partner.
We help homeowners, gamers, creators, and businesses stay ahead of technology—so your PC works smarter, faster, and longer.
This Week at Twin Cities PC Repair: Tips, Tales & Tech Insights – 9/29/2025
Welcome Note
Hello, Twin Cities community! We hope your week has been smooth (at least until your computer gave you headaches). Here at Twin Cities PC Repair, we believe in keeping you informed, empowered, and (fingers crossed) error-free. Below are what’s happening this week, along with a few tips and insights for your tech.
🖥️ Featured Tip of the Week
Back Up Before You Crack (Open the Case, That Is)
One thing we can’t stress enough: always back up your data before doing any hardware changes or repairs. Whether it’s a hard drive swap, SSD upgrade, or cleaning internal components, unexpected failures can happen. Use an external drive, cloud backup, or network storage to keep your photos, documents, and important files safe.
Bonus tip: verify your backup by opening a few files from it occasionally — you don’t want to discover it’s corrupt when you really need it.
🔍 Recent Highlights from the Shop
Client Spotlight – SSD Upgrade for Speed
This week, we upgraded a local small business owner’s aging laptop from a 5400 RPM HDD to a 1TB NVMe SSD. The end result? Boot times dropped from ~60 seconds to ~10 seconds. The client was stunned — “I didn’t know my machine could be this fast,” they said.
Fun (but stressful) Recovery
We had a case where someone accidentally spilled coffee on their desktop. Thankfully, the client shut off the PC immediately, brought it in, and we managed to salvage the motherboard and data. A reminder: always power off and unplug first if liquid gets in.
Network Troubles
A customer’s home WiFi was dropping repeatedly. After diagnostics, we found a failing router and interference from a new neighbor’s network. Swapping to a dual-band mesh system and choosing less crowded channels solved the problem.
💡 Tech Insight of the Week: Why Your PC Slows Over Time
Over months and years, many things accumulate to slow your machine:
Bloatware and unwanted software installed in the background
Fragmented storage (especially on traditional hard drives)
Dust and heat buildup in key components
Outdated drivers or firmware
Operating system updates not optimized
If you’ve noticed your PC dragging lately, come by and we’ll run a “speed-revival” tune-up — cleaning, updates, optimizations, and hardware checks.
✅ Quick Checklist for Your PC This Week
Check your backups — make sure they are working.
Delete programs you no longer need.
Clean dust out of fans, vents, and intakes (when safe and powered off).
Update your OS, drivers, and key software.
Monitor your disk usage; a nearly full drive often slows things down.
Thanks for reading! If you’re in the Twin Cities area and your computer’s acting up, feel free to book a device drop-off or drop by. We’d be happy to help.
Have a great (and glitch-free) week ahead,
Twin Cities PC Repair
Why Computer Tune-Ups Save You Money (and Headaches) in the Long Run – 9/15/2025 Twin Cities PC Repair Weekly Tech-Tips
When it comes to computers, most people wait until something goes wrong before calling for help. By the time you see the dreaded blue screen, hear grinding noises from the hard drive, or notice your laptop takes five minutes just to start up, the damage is often done—and the repair costs can be much higher than expected.
That’s where regular computer tune-ups come in. Just like cars, computers run better, last longer, and cost less to maintain when they’re serviced on a routine basis. A tune-up isn’t just about cleaning up files; it’s about protecting your investment, keeping your system running smoothly, and avoiding major problems before they happen.
The True Cost of “Waiting Until It Breaks”
Many people think skipping maintenance saves money. In reality, it often does the opposite. Consider this:
A failing hard drive can sometimes be detected early during a routine check. If caught in time, you can back up your data and replace the drive affordably. If not, you could be facing a complete data recovery job—easily hundreds of dollars.
Out-of-date software leaves your computer open to viruses and malware. A tune-up ensures updates are installed, security settings are checked, and your system is protected. Cleaning up after an infection is always more expensive (and stressful) than preventing one.
Overheating and dust buildup inside your machine may not be noticeable right away. Left unchecked, they can permanently damage internal components. A quick cleaning during a tune-up keeps fans running efficiently and avoids costly replacements.
What’s Included in a Computer Tune-Up?
Every computer repair shop has its own process, but a professional tune-up usually includes:
System performance checks and startup optimization
Removal of junk files, bloatware, and hidden background programs
Virus and malware scans with removal if needed
Security and update verification
Hardware inspection, including fans, drives, and memory
Cleaning dust from inside the case or laptop vents
The result? A computer that runs faster, stays more secure, and lasts longer—without the constant frustration of slowdowns and glitches.
Small Investment, Big Savings
Think about it this way: would you rather spend a little now, or a lot later? A tune-up is a small investment compared to the cost of:
Data recovery after a hard drive crash
Malware cleanup from a ransomware attack
Replacing an entire computer sooner than necessary
Even better, regular maintenance extends the life of your machine. Instead of replacing a laptop every 3–4 years, you could comfortably use it for 5–6 years with proper care. That’s hundreds of dollars saved just by taking preventive action.
How We Make It Easy
We know life is busy, which is why we offer maintenance plans and block labor hour packages. That means you don’t have to wait until disaster strikes—you can schedule regular tune-ups at a discounted rate and know your computer is always being looked after.
With prepaid labor blocks, you save money up front and can use the hours for any service you need: tune-ups, virus removal, upgrades, or troubleshooting. It’s flexible, affordable, and ensures your technology is always in top shape.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Your computer is one of the most important tools you use every day. Whether it’s for work, school, or keeping in touch with loved ones, it deserves the same kind of routine care you’d give your car or your health.
A tune-up today can save you from a major repair tomorrow—and give you peace of mind knowing your files, photos, and data are safe.
👉 Click below to schedule your computer tune-up or ask about our block labor hour packages. It’s the easiest way to save money, avoid headaches, and keep your tech running like new.
Book a drop-off, click HERE
Book remote support, click HERE Contact me, click HERE
AI-Capable PCs & Windows 10 Sunset: What It Means for You – 9/3/2025
Get Ready for the AI-Capable PC Revolution
The personal computer market is undergoing a fast-paced transformation—and for Twin Cities PC Repair, this moment holds tremendous opportunity. As AI-capable PCs surge in popularity and Windows 10 support winds down, savvy computer users need trusted experts to guide them through upgrades, services, and AI-ready hardware.
AI-Capable PCs Are Taking Off—Fast
Recent data shows AI-capable PCs are on track to account for 31% of global PC shipments by the end of 2025, poised to nearly double to 55% in 2026—a meteoric rise in just a year. Laptops currently dominate this segment, thanks to their convenience and affordability.
More consumers and businesses are realizing the benefit of having local AI processing power for productivity, content creation, and even cybersecurity. It’s no longer just about speed—it’s about intelligence built directly into the machine.
Windows 10 Support Ends October 2025
Adding fuel to the fire, Microsoft is set to end support for Windows 10 in October 2025. That means no more security updates, patches, or official support.
Many businesses and professionals need new machines now to avoid security risks and ensure continued compatibility with critical applications. This system refresh cycle is driving renewed demand for hardware—and repair services too.
Major Brands Already See Growth
Industry leaders are reaping the rewards. HP recently reported a 6% increase in personal systems revenue, driven by strong uptake of AI-enabled PCs. Dell also raised revenue forecasts, citing demand for both AI-ready laptops and servers.
These signals confirm that AI computing isn’t a passing fad—it’s the direction the entire industry is heading.
What This Means for You (and How We Can Help)
At Twin Cities PC Repair, we’re ready to guide you through this transition. Here’s how we can help:
Upgrade Services in High Demand Bring us your older PC and we’ll assess upgrade paths—whether that’s adding RAM, swapping in a fast SSD, or checking compatibility for Windows 11 and AI features.
Affordable Refurbished Models We offer tested, certified refurbished machines that are AI-ready—perfect if you want performance without breaking the bank.
Smart Stocking of Parts We keep the latest NVMe drives, RAM, and cooling solutions in stock so you don’t wait weeks for your upgrade.
Education & Guidance Confused about what “AI-capable” really means? We’ll explain the difference between CPUs, GPUs, and NPUs in plain language so you know exactly what you’re getting.
Long-Term Outlook: Bright for PC Owners
Analysts forecast 4%+ growth in PC shipments in 2025, spurred by AI adoption, hardware refresh cycles, and hybrid work. Combined with Windows 10’s sunset, this creates a once-in-a-decade chance to upgrade and secure your technology.
For Twin Cities PC Repair, it means more neighbors and businesses coming through our doors for trusted advice. For you, it means peace of mind knowing your systems are secure, powerful, and future-ready.
Microsoft has officially announced that support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025. While that date may seem far off, this transition will impact millions of PC users—and the time to prepare is now.
When Windows 10 reaches its end-of-life, Microsoft will stop providing important updates, including critical security patches, driver compatibility improvements, and system stability updates. What does that mean for you? Without ongoing support, your PC will become increasingly vulnerable to viruses, malware, and performance issues. Many newer applications and devices may also stop working properly as developers shift their focus to Windows 11 and beyond.
Here at Twin Cities PC Repair in Bloomington, we understand that change can be overwhelming—especially when it involves your technology. That’s why we’re offering comprehensive services to help you make the switch to Windows 11 smoothly and securely.
What We Offer:
Free Upgrade Assessments – We’ll evaluate whether your current device can run Windows 11.
Hassle-Free Data Migration – Safely move your photos, files, apps, and settings without risk.
PC Upgrades & Custom Builds – If your system isn’t compatible, we’ll help you upgrade or find a quality refurbished option.
New Windows 11 PCs – We carry affordable and reliable systems ready for today’s demands.
Local Support – From setup to troubleshooting, we’re here every step of the way—no call centers, just friendly Bloomington techs.
Whether you’re a home user, small business, student, or senior, we’re here to guide you through the transition at a pace that fits your needs. Our team brings trusted, local experience and personal service that the big box stores just can’t match.
Why Act Now?
Waiting until the last minute may leave you scrambling—especially as demand increases closer to the deadline. Upgrading early allows time for proper planning, safe data transfer, and choosing the right system. Plus, it gives you peace of mind knowing your device is secure and future-ready.
If you have questions or would like to schedule an assessment, book your device drop-off HERE or stop by our shop in Bloomington. Let’s make sure you’re not caught off guard when Windows 10 finally goes dark.
Thank you for choosing Twin Cities PC Repair—your local tech experts you can count on.
The Team at Twin Cities PC Repair 📍 7900 International Dr., Suite 300, Bloomington, MN 55425 📞 (651) 456-8655 🌐 www.TwinCitiesPCRepair.com
Data loss: prevention is key! – 4/12/2024
We hope this newsletter finds you well! In today’s digital age, our lives are increasingly dependent on the data stored on our devices. Whether it’s personal memories, important work documents, or valuable information, the loss of such data can be distressing and costly. That’s why we’re excited to share with you some valuable insights and tips on data recovery in this edition of our newsletter.
Understanding Data Recovery
Data recovery is the process of retrieving lost or deleted data from storage devices such as hard drives, solid-state drives (SSDs), USB drives, memory cards, and even smartphones. It involves specialized techniques that allow for the retrieval of files that have been accidentally deleted or corrupted due to hardware failure, software issues, viruses, or other unforeseen circumstances.
Causes of Data Loss
There are several common causes of data loss:
Accidental deletion: We’ve all been there—mistakenly deleting an important file or folder.
Hardware failure: Hard drives can fail due to mechanical issues or electrical problems.
Software corruption occurs when operating systems crash or become corrupted.
Virus attacks: Malicious software can compromise your system and lead to data loss.
Natural disasters—fires, floods, earthquakes—all pose a risk to physical storage devices.
Steps to Take Immediately After Data Loss
If you find yourself facing a potential loss of important data:
a) Stop using the affected device immediately. Continued use may overwrite deleted files and complicate recovery efforts.
b) Disconnect from the internet: This reduces the risk of malware spreading further into your system.
c) Do not attempt DIY solutions unless you have expertise in data recovery; this could lead to permanent damage.
Professional Data Recovery Services
Engaging professional data recovery services is often the best course of action when dealing with complex cases or critical data loss situations. These experts possess the specialized tools and knowledge required for successful recoveries.
Prevention Is Better Than Cure
While it is impossible to completely eliminate the risk of data loss, taking preventative measures will help safeguard your valuable information:
a) Regularly backup your files using both local external storage devices (hard drives) and cloud-based solutions.
b) Invest in reliable anti-virus software and keep it updated regularly.
c) Be cautious when opening email attachments from unknown sources; they may contain viruses designed to compromise your system.
DIY Data Recovery Tools
For less severe cases where there is no physical damage involved, DIY recovery tools can be used cautiously. These software options scan storage devices for recoverable files but should only be used if you have technical knowledge regarding their safe usage.
Remember that prevention is key! Taking proactive steps towards securing your digital assets will save you time and stress if a catastrophic event occurs.
We hope these insights have given you a better understanding of how crucial it is to protect your valuable data. If ever faced with a challenging situation involving lost files in the future, don’t panic! Call (651) 456-8655 or visit our Contact page for professional assistance from trusted experts in the field! Stay safe online!
Keeping Kids Safe on Discord and Online Platforms – 9/25/2023
You might remember setting up a “telephone” with a friend made with cups and a string. Or feel nostalgic for the novelty of having your own phone line in your home growing up. Meanwhile, we’re raising the digital generation. They game online, chat online, stream TV online…everything is online. One popular channel for kids’ conversations? Discord. Here’s help keeping your kids safe on this and other online platforms.
Discord is a popular communication platform connecting communities of people online. It’s particularly popular with gamers. But kids use it for real-time voice and video calls, screen sharing, and group or private chats.
Ultimately, Discord is a versatile and powerful platform. That means it’s important to guide young users in using it responsibly.
Keeping Kids Safe on Discord
Discord requires its users to be at least 13 years old, but this is not enforced. Protecting your kids requires communication, as well as an understanding of the platform’s safety features.
Discord users can share text messages, images, GIFs, videos, and links in their channels. That means your child may encounter inappropriate content.
Reduce the probability by setting up Family Center to connect your account with your child’s:
Open Discord.
Tap on Family Center.
In user Settings, toggle the Enable Family Center tab.
Scan the QR code under your child’s Connect with Your Parent option in their Family Center tab.
Once you’re connected, you’ll be able to see friend requests, who they make calls to, and who they have messaged, although you won’t be able to see the content of those calls and messages. You can also track which servers (think of it like a text thread) they take part in. You can also receive weekly recaps via email.
It’s also a good idea to:
Encourage your child to accept friend requests only from people they know in real life;
Review their friend list to ensure no unfamiliar users are added;
Set up Safe Direct Messaging, which prevents direct messages from users not on the friend list;
Review and adjust privacy settings to enable content filters and to control who can send friend requests, see their online status, and more.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on the account for added security.
Online Safety for Kids
Controls can help, but you probably want to pair online safety with giving autonomy.
Communicate with your child about online safety. Teach them about not sharing personal information and reporting any uncomfortable situations. Remind them that someone may not be who they say they are. Warn them of the risks of meeting up with someone they meet online.
Setting screen time limits can also help curtail your child’s online activity. This encourages them to set boundaries and continue to develop other interests.
Lead by example by limiting your own online time and treating others with kindness. Encouraging critical thinking can also help your child’s digital literacy. Ask them to think about a cyberbully’s motives, or discuss why taking responsibility for online activity is important.
Finally, let them know they can come to you with concerns or uncomfortable situations. Online safety is an ongoing process. Stay involved in and updated about your child’s online activities.
Need help understanding new technologies your child is using? Our IT experts can help set up a safer online environment for your entire family. Call us today at (651) 456-8655 or visit our Contact page.
Mobile apps let us play, teach us, give us social media or music, and more. No wonder there were more than 142 billion downloads in 2022! Going to Google or Apple’s mobile stores to find the app you want feels safe, but even these heavy hitters can’t guarantee you’re downloading something secure.
Google and Apple do their best, but they are vetting many thousands of new apps submitted monthly. The vast majority of their offerings aren’t a threat, but some malicious apps can make it through.
What do malicious app downloads do?
Apps downloaded from mobile stores are typically more secure than your Web activity. On an app, you’re within a contained system, whereas on the Web, you click through various links and visit websites which could have viruses or malware.
Still, a malicious app can infect your smartphone and cause several issues:
Ad fraud. The app runs in the background and sends ad clicks to different websites. This runs down your battery and slows your phone activity.
Data theft. If you give a malicious app permission to cross the app/data divide, it could lead to information being stolen.
Browser hacking. The app may open website browsers that put you at risk of sharing sensitive data.
Apps access all your information (SMS, camera, contacts) and take control of your device.
Keep your mobile phone safe
When looking to download a mobile app, do your research. Look at the ratings and how many downloads it has had. Application reviews can also help you verify the credibility of the app. Check the logo and the name of the creator, too. You don’t want to install something from Microsaft instead of Microsoft.
Keep your mobile device’s operating system current. Installing the manufacturer’s updates can help cut your vulnerabilities.
Also, take a moment to review the permissions for that new app. There’s no reason a calculator app needs access to your entire address book and camera. If the app asks for too much access, it can be a good idea to delete it and look for another option.
Be wary if you decide to download an app directly from a website other than the app store. This is a greater risk. Plus, know that illegally pirating software or media is a real risk for viruses.
Also, keep an eye out for common signs of a virus on your phone such as:
other apps taking longer than usual to open or install;
phone battery running down faster than normal;
your monthly data usage increasing;
your contacts receiving odd messages from you via email, text, or social media.
Worried you may have a virus on your device? We can check and see. We can also help backup your data and, if necessary, wipe a compromised phone. Call us today at (651) 456-8655 or visit our Contact page.
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