Important Security Issues

   Ransomware Strikes Again - Cryptowall. Making regular backups of critical data and keeping your software up to date is more important than ever thanks to the arrival of new, “improved” malware like Cryptowall 2. This update to a well-known ransomware exploit is making life miserable for business and personal computer users worldwide. Here's what you need to know...

   DOWNLOAD ALERT: Foistware Warning. Foistware is a term used for software that's "foisted" on you, typically without your knowledge or explicit consent. How can I avoid this?

    Downloading? Watch Out For These Danger Signs. A look at two other popular download sites, to see if they are also guilty of foisting garbageware on downloaders.

   How do I get rid of the ASK virus that hijacks my browser and configure my computer so I never see it again?

 from  Bob Brankin's website  http://askbobbrankin.com

Free Microsoft Help!

A reminder from APCUG -
Did you know that Microsoft in the US will give free 7 by 24 support if you computer becomes infected with malwareyou. You just need to call 1-866-pcsafety (yes more that 7 numbers but you will remember the number that way).

http://blog.mir.net/2010/01/free-support-for-virus-malware-and.html

Got a new computer? Install these nine programs right away

Start your new PC off right with high-rated free software.

New computer? Feed it a healthy diet of powerful software.

By Chris Gaylord Staff Writer for The Christian Science Monitor / January 7, 2010

http://www.csmonitor.com/Innovation/Tech-Culture/2010/0107/Got-a-new-computer-Install-these-nine-programs-right-away

ReadWriteWeb has some great suggestions: "8 Things Every Geek Needs to Do Before 2010". You don't need to consider yourself a "Geek" to take advantage of these good reminders!!!


http://www.readwriteweb.com/archives/8_things_every_geek_needs_to_do_before_2010.php

Setting up a New PC

PC Magazines article: Make the Most of Your New PC has good suggestions.

"Unlike most electronic devices, which you can plug in and use instantly, PCs—particularly those with Windows—need some adjustment before they're ready for everyday use."


http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2337550,00.asp

Test your Phishing Knowledge

SonicWall is providing a online test that shows you several emails and asks you to identify them as legitimate or Phishing scam, afterwards you can see why you were right or wrong for each one. here's the link: http://www.sonicwall.com/phishing/index.html