How to rescue your PC from ransomware
Ransomware is a serious headache. Don't negotiate with e-terrorists. Be a hero and rescue your hostage PC.
Eric Geier | 04 Apr | Read more
Ransomware is a serious headache. Don't negotiate with e-terrorists. Be a hero and rescue your hostage PC.
Eric Geier | 04 Apr | Read more
Whether you're an IT student or have been in the field for many years, the learning never stops, especially in regards to security. Hackers are discovering vulnerabilities in our software and systems 24/7. They'll always find new ways to steal data, infect computers and wreak havoc in the digital world.
Eric Geier | 13 May | Read more
While many (but not all) users are familiar with the concept of security software, there are more basic ways to protect unwary surfers from phishing sites, botnets, intrusive advertising and other unwanted visitors: DNS services.
Eric Geier | 28 Jan | Read more
Adware and potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) might not seem like viruses to some people, but they can wreak havoc and cause major annoyances. It's like comparing terriers to guard dogs: A misbehaved terrier (PUP) may not be as dangerous as a bad-tempered junkyard dog (virus), but the little ankle-biters can sure get on your nerves, and they tend to nip more often.
Eric Geier | 10 Sep | Read more
Putting sensitive data in email messages or cloud storage should give you the heebie-jeebies, but a good dose of cryptography can give you peace of mind. Pretty Good Privacy (PGP) or its open-source implementation, OpenPGP, is the gold standard of encryption online, and when used properly, has the potential to thwart even the likes of the NSA.
Eric Geier | 22 Aug | Read more
A forgotten Windows password isn't the end of the world. You don't have to trash the computer, or even perform a dreaded factory restore. There are many ways to remove or reset a Windows password, but how quickly and easily it can be done depends on the situation.
Eric Geier | 09 Jun | Read more
Though you may know and follow basic security measures on your own when installing and managing your network and websites, you'll never be able to keep up with and catch all the vulnerabilities by yourself.
Eric Geier | 29 Apr | Read more
We sometimes focus more on the wireless side of the network when it comes to security because Wi-Fi has no physical fences. After all, a war-driver can detect your SSID and launch an attack while sitting out in the parking lot.
Eric Geier | 17 Mar | Read more
With the nasty CryptoLocker malware making the rounds--encrypting its victims' files, and then refusing to provide the unlock key unless a payment of $300 is made via Bitcoin or a prepaid cash voucher--ransomware is back in the spotlight.
Eric Geier | 13 Jan | Read more
Wi-Fi has evolved over the years, and so have the techniques for securing your wireless network. An Internet search could unearth information that's outdated and no longer secure or relevant, or that's simply a myth.
Eric Geier | 07 Oct | Read more
PCI compliance may seem like an arcane art if you're a small merchant, but you ignore it at your peril. Non-compliance with the security standards developed by the Payment Card Industry (PCI) Security Standards Council carries penalties of $5,000 to $100,000 per month.
Eric Geier | 25 Sep | Read more
On Wednesday, AVG released the 2014 versions of its antivirus and Internet security programs. Available for immediate download, the programs range from the no-cost AVG AntiVirus FREE 2014 to higher-end paid software such as AVG Premium Security 2014 and AVG PC TuneUp 2014.
Eric Geier | 04 Sep | Read more
Kaspersky Lab has launched its 2014 versions of Kaspersky Anti-Virus ($US59.95) and Kaspersky Internet Security ($US79.95). Pricing varies upon the length of protection and how many PCs you want to protect; those listed here include one year for up to three PCs. If you're a current customer you may upgrade from the 2013 products free of charge.
Eric Geier | 13 Aug | Read more
The Internet runs on ads, but when you see them in your browser, your first instinct should be to run the other way--fast. The lion's share of the Internet is wallpapered with tacky ads that invite you to "Lose 15 lbs. with this 1 weird tip" and load your browser with spyware in the process. In other corners of the Web, you might download a free game or a piece of music from an untrustworthy site, ending up with malicious adware that hitched a ride along with it.
Eric Geier | 13 Aug | Read more
The Internet is filled with websites that are inappropriate for anyone, much less children. Kids get into trouble online all the time, even when they aren't looking for it. Misspelling a website address, screwing up a search term, or clicking a risqué ad can lead to some awkward bedtime conversations. Online bullying, predatory adults, and illegal downloading of copyrighted content are other threats.
Eric Geier | 20 Jun | Read more