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.
Deepfake Voice Scams: Don’t Fall for Them, 5/8/2023
Deepfake has gone mainstream. You’ve probably seen a movie or TV show with a character complaining about images or videos that look real. You should also be wary of deepfake voice scams.
Deepfake is a mashup of the words deep learning and fake. The technology uses artificial intelligence and machine-deep-learning algorithms. This can create convincing representations of people for special effects or silly videos, but these fake videos or images can also be more dangerous.
Malicious deepfakes spread false information or can defame or scam people. That’s what we want to talk about in more detail here: fake voice scams.
What is a “deepfake voice” scam?
This type of scam manipulates synthesized speech to convince you that someone is saying something they didn’t actually say. This increasingly common scam tricks you into providing sensitive information or sending money.
Criminals first record a voice sample from their victim. They might use speeches, TikTok or YouTube videos, podcasts, or phone conversations. Then, they turn to a tool such as ElevenLabs, Resemble, Overdub, ReadSpeaker, or Voice.ai. These platforms analyze speech patterns and create a voice mimicking the original. The bad actors can then generate a new speech that sounds like the original speaker said it. They script it, and the Ai voice says it.
Examples of deepfake scams include creating a voice that mimics a family member. They’ll script a request for help in an emergency situation. Or you might get a call from a lawyer claiming to need payment to help defend a family member.
You might also hear from a celebrity who wants you to donate to their charity. The fake voice might also ask for sensitive information, such as banking details. After all, who wouldn’t trust Liam Neeson if he called personally?
A tech support scam is another common one. The scammer creates a voice for a customer support representative from a prominent company. They request remote access to your computer to “fix” a non-existent problem. Instead, they’ll steal sensitive information, such as login credentials, or install malware.
How do I defend against deepfake scams?
This technology does a good job, and the scam can be very convincing. Be cautious of unexpected requests for personal information or money made by phone. Be especially suspicious if the request makes an emotional appeal to you to act now.
Confirm before you share sensitive data or transfer money. For example, if you’re asked to pay a lawyer to help your grandson in an accident, check in with him first. Or, if someone calls from your internet service provider, use a trusted phone number to confirm their authenticity.
We can help you combat deep-fake scams. We can install email and Web filtering, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and endpoint protection. Our IT experts can also watch networks for signs of attack and respond to minimize potential damage. Call us today at (651) 456-8655 or visit our Contact page.
Tech Tips Everyone Should Know – 4/16/2023. There are billions of computers in the world today. In fact, 286 million computers shipped globally in 2022, and that was a 16% drop! Those figures make it obvious how many of us have access to computers, yet that doesn’t mean we all know the simple shortcuts available to us. This article rounds up top tech tips that can benefit every user.
Tech Tips #1: Search Google smarter
Google is the market leader with over 85% of Web search traffic. But did you know you can search this popular online engine even easier? When you know you are looking for something on a particular site, you can narrow your search. Go to the Google search bar as normal, then, in the search box, type “site: www.website.com” (without quotes) with your search term. This refines your search.
So, if you wanted to find an article on coaching on the Forbes website, you would search “site: forbes.com and coaching.” You’ll see that all the responses you get back come from the Forbes domain.
Tech Tips #2: Undo your mistakes
We all make mistakes while working on our computers. Here are some ways to undo the common ones.
“Unsending” an email is possible in Gmail. Go to Settings and set up the Undo Send section to give yourself 5, 10, 20, or 30 seconds. Then, save your changes, and you’ll have this option enabled in the future. It doesn’t technically “unsend” the email but delays sending it for a few seconds so you can stop it if need be.
You can also reopen a closed browser tab by using Ctrl+Shift+T on your PC or Command+Shift+T on your Mac. This reopens the last tab you closed. If you closed a bunch at once, you can also reopen them from your browser’s History dropdown menu.
Then, there’s Ctrl + Z for just about everything else. Pressing the control button and Z key together undoes your action in many Web browsers and operating systems. It will depend on your application and how far you can go back with this shortcut.
Tech Tips #3: Capture your screen
Some modern PC keyboards come with a “print screen” key, which you can use to get a screenshot of the desktop windows. If you want to crop that screenshot, on Windows 10, go to Start and type Snipping Tool in the Search bar. You’ll get a box you can drag to any shape over your screen.
You can also take a screenshot on a Mac by pressing Command + Shift + 4. To crop the screenshot size and shape, you’ll press Command + Shift + 5.
One more little secret
How many times do you find yourself picking up your USB cable and trying to put it in the wrong way? You can stop doing so by looking for a symbol on the cable near where you’ll plug it in. It’s only found on one side, and it’s not for decoration. The symbol should be facing you when you plug in the USB. This will get it in the first time, whether you’re plugging in a vertical or horizontal cable.
These tech tips can help you be more efficient and effective with your technology, but you may still want help in other areas. Reach out to our IT experts today. We’re here to help. Call us at (651) 456-8655 or visit our Contact page.
You drop your computer in the bathtub, or your basement home office floods and the desktop is under water. Or you spill your tea across the keyboard. If any of this happens, you can guess right away that you’ll be dealing with liquid damage. Only it’s not always that obvious. Knowing the common signs to look for can help you diagnose liquid damage in your devices.
If you are right there when your computer is exposed to liquids, unplug it immediately. Wet components can short-circuit and cause issues for your motherboard, hard drives, and more.
Still, you might not know immediately that liquid damage is to blame. You might live in an area with high humidity. Or maybe someone in the family watches Netflix while in a steamy bathroom. That’s when you look for signs that there’s moisture inside your computer.
Signs you can see yourself
Liquid spilled inside your keyboard can make keys or the trackpad stop working. Even a few liquid droplets can cause the keyboard or trackpad to start responding to your touch erratically.
You might also experience screen issues. This depends on where the liquid penetrates your laptop. Look out for:
images not displaying properly;
pixel discoloration;
a display that won’t turn on.
These are pretty obvious signs that you need to get help. You might also see some discoloration on the outside of the computer. The white or green residue is not a good sign.
Another scary indicator? The computer won’t turn on at all. That suggests that internal components are damaged, and you’ll need to take action.
Signs that repair shops can see
Most people should not be opening up computers on their own. Even if you think there might have been liquid damage, it’s safer to take the computer to a trained expert. That way, you won’t do more damage trying to see what’s wrong in the first place.
At a computer shop, the person doing the repairs will look inside for corrosion around connectors and your motherboard. They’ll be looking for that white or green residue you were hoping not to see on the exterior.
Another sign? The liquid damage indicator shows exposure to water or liquids. The indicator is a small device inside the computer that’s used by manufacturers to deny warranty coverage (despite the consumer’s protests, the laptop never got wet).
What to do with a wet computer
Unplug it. Get help. The sooner you take a liquid-damaged computer in for repair, the more likely it is to recover. Work with a professional IT repair shop to diagnose and repair your device issues. We’re here to help. Call us at (651) 456-8655 or visit our Contact page. Check out our additional laptop services HERE.
Patrick, owner of Twin Cities PC Repair, has decided to do his Flash Labor Sale yet again!!
With the cost of goods & services ever increasing, Patrick has decided it’s time he gives his customers a little break on the pocketbook… You’ll receive the same great responsive service at a discount of 25% off his normal $85/hr carry-in labor rate. This brings our labor rate down to $63.75/hr, that’s $21.25 off per hour!
Just book your device drop off anytime between 3/2/2023 – 3/23/2023 and we will automatically apply the discount to your estimate & invoice.
To book your device drop-off, simply click the button below or click HERE. For more information on our services or Flash Labor Sale, call (651) 456-8655, or visit our Contact page.
Better than the Big Box Boys – Certified Techs, Fast Turnaround: PC Computer Repair, Virus Removal – Bloomington Location – Remote Services Available
You’ve found the best place in town for responsive, reliable, friendly, and effective residential computer repair. Our expert technicians are trained on the latest techniques to solve your technology problems.
Too often, computer users get lured into the marketing of big box stores and franchise chains that care only about their bottom line! We strive to create real lasting relationships with our customers so you know you can count on us as your go-to computer shop.
Aspects of our business that set it apart from the rest:
Accurate & honest labor billing Guaranteed satisfaction or you don’t pay us Friendly, honest communication, no “geek-speak” Professional, experienced, and certified technicians Locally owned and operated
Microsoft Windows PC Computer Repair
Apple iMac and MacBook Computer Repair
Data Recovery
Viruses, Malware, Adware and Ransom-ware Removal
Cracked and Broken Laptop Screen Replacements
Open Monday through Friday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM & Afterhours by Appointment
Vertical Monitors – What are the Benefits? – March 2023
Horizontal is the norm when we’re thinking about televisions or computer monitors. Yet vertical monitors are an option. Consider these advantages of going vertical.
On a horizontal monitor, there is more width than height. The usual 16:9 horizontal monitor is great for watching movies, but when it comes to other processes, there’s a lot of wasted space. If you have a vertical monitor setup, you can enjoy a better viewing experience.
You’ll find it’s easier to scan websites, view search engine results, and read online content or long blocks of code. If you’re big into cryptocurrency, you might enjoy displaying data in an easy-to-read form, plus, you’ll be able to react more quickly.
You can also have a full view of photographs or a project if you’re trying to design something with a vertical layout.
Vertical screens can also reduce eye strain. With this setup you reduce the range of movement, which can save your eyes from getting as tired.
Further, you might be able to save space with a vertical monitor if you have less room on your desk.
A vertical monitor can be appealing if you use two monitors at once. Having dual monitors can increase productivity. You enjoy added viewing space to multitask, browse the Web, watch videos, or games. If you’re working from home, you may also find it easier to collaborate with colleagues with a second screen. When you set up one screen to be vertical, you can benefit from the best of both worlds.
Going vertical is Easy
You don’t have to buy a special monitor to take advantage of a vertical setup. While many screens are only capable of a horizontal display, you may be able to adjust the way it is mounted. You can get a stand or mount that allows you to easily rotate the screen. As long as it is a VESA-compatible monitor, you can easily make the choice of horizontal or vertical. Then, you can change the layout in the operating system’s display settings. Windows, MacOS, and Linux all support vertical screen rotation.
Some monitors have mounts that allow physical rotation, which is a good way to test drive the vertical monitor. That way you can see how it compares to a horizontal layout for your needs. Keep in mind, though, that this repositioning of the monitor will affect your stereo speakers. You’ll need to attach an external pair of speakers to have them work with the new orientation.
Vertical monitors aren’t for everybody; if you game a lot or want to watch movies or do 3D modeling, you might prefer the horizontal screen. Many computer games, for example, are programmed for horizontal play, and opening that game up on a vertical rotation can cut off or compress your visuals.
One other common criticism of vertical screens is that they catch glare from nearby light sources more easily. So, if you don’t want to deal with glare, stick with horizontal.
Our IT experts are here to consult on your computer needs. We can advise you on your screen choices and so much more. Contact us today at (651) 456-8655 or visit our Contact page.
Our phones can recognize our faces. Digital watches can detect that we’ve been in an accident. We can put on a virtual reality headset and feel as if we’re swimming with dolphins. With all this technological innovation, why are home printers still so frustrating? This article explains why and how to make the most of the situation.
Hewlett-Packard released its home DeskJet inkjet printer in 1988. These printers spray liquid ink onto the page through printheads. Home laserjet printers followed shortly after. They use lasers to create static electricity to attract and melt toner onto the paper.
And here we are, thirty-five years later, with pretty much the same printer technology. Although now, you might also consider a multifunction (all-in-one) printer. These print documents and can often also scan, copy, fax, and email documents.
But we’re still saddled with clogged inkjets and leaking ink cartridges, plus paper jams, or a printer that can’t recognize the paper that you’ve now taken in and out of the tray 16 times in a row. Why?
Manufacturer priorities for printers
Printer manufacturers often lose money selling you the printer. Printer technology is quite complicated, but you’re getting the device for the price of parts. That’s because the manufacturer banks on making their money back on the sale of the ink.
Because they’re looking to make money off ink sales, printer users now endure:
ink cartridges that run out quickly – yes, they’re putting less ink in their cartridges these days;
printers designed not to work as well if you use off-brand cartridges;
having to perform printer maintenance that uses up more ink.
Even if you do invest in top-quality, on-brand ink, you could still encounter problems. Connectivity issues or error messages when you change paper are common.
That’s because the internal workings of the printer can be outsourced to the lowest bidder. Printer longevity is not the goal, so there’s less incentive to develop robust networking components or print drivers.
Plus, printing is hard
It’s not all down to printer manufacturer choices. Printing is a complicated process. Many moving parts need fine-tuning to apply the right pressure and position the ink. Plus, people could be using glossy photo paper one minute and recycled paper the next. At the same time, humidity or air that is too dry can also impact the paper and how the printer can move it around.
So, what can you do? Prefer a laser printer, which uses dry powder, if you’re going to print mostly in black and white. You’ll pay more upfront, but you’re no longer hostage to the ink-cartridge dilemma. If you need to do color prints, you might find it’s cheaper to actually go to your local print shop or big-box store.
If your Wi-Fi connectivity conks out, connect the USB cable that shipped with the printer. It may not be as pretty, but it will get the job done.
Want to save hours of your life troubleshooting your printer woes? We can help. Contact our experts today at (651) 456-8655 or visit our Contact page to send us a message.
We also carry a full line of remanufactured ink cartridges and can save you some money on ink & toner refills!
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.
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.
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.
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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).
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