Summer is almost here and the bad guys are out in force!
Here are a few items to be aware of.
1. Important announcements regarding Windows 7
a. Today, Microsoft released an update to block a pretty scary vulnerability in Windows 7, Windows XP and Windows Server 2003 and 2008.
It looks like a remote attacker could access and control vulnerable systems without authenticating with a username/password.
What’s the fix? If you’re running any of these systems on your computer or business server, please immediately run Windows Update to get the latest protection.
Here’s a link to the official posting: https://lamorindatechnology.us7.list-manage.com/track/click?u=59906339194d9866bd4c8e2fd&id=1f0c0f7a3e&e=e2082426c8
b. Microsoft will end support for Windows 7 on January 14, 2020.
If you’re running Windows 7 on any computers, we strongly advise you to replace the computer before January 14, 2020. After January 14, 2020, Microsoft may not release any new security updates, which as we’ve seen above, can leave your computer exposed.
While it is possible to upgrade some Windows 7 computers to Windows 10, we do not recommend doing so.
Why? New computers are very inexpensive these days and your windows 7 computer is almost certainly between 5-10 years old-well past its economic life. A new computer will have the right equipment to handle todays software and will probably run faster than your old computer.
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2. Another announcement this week is that the popular Facebook messaging application WhatsApp has a vulnerability that allows hackers to take control of a vulnerable cell phone (Apple and Android), just by making a call to the phone. The recipient doesn’t even have to answer the call!
What’s the fix? If you have the WhatsApp app on your phone, please update it immediately.
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3. Don’t Fall Victim To Phone Scammers
Sadly, we’ve had another client fall for a phone call claiming that there was a security problem with their computer or network.
In this case the criminal was allowed remote access to the computer, and threatened to lock the victim out unless a ransom was paid. Fortunately, the criminal did not make good on his threat or collect any money-but he could have caused real damage once he was granted remote control.
Tips for protecting yourself
1. Never let anyone remotely access your computer (except us!)
2. Do not believe anything someone says, who calls you claiming there’s a problem with your computer, network, social security number, bank account, credit card, etc. They are lying!!
3. Most criminals will try to get you to pay their scam fees using gift cards or money transfers. Remember, gift cards and money transfers have no recourse. Once you send them, you can’t put a stop to the charge.
Legitimate businesses have no use for gift cards or money transfers-we take credit cards. The bad guys usually can’t accept credit cards because their accounts have been shut down due to complaints of criminal activity.
4. Please call or email us if you ever get a phone call/email/pop-up that you think is legitimate. We’ll help you steer clear of the bad guys-no charge-we just want you to be safe.
In closing, I’d like to stress the importance of keeping your phone and computer software and operating systems up-to-date. That and a little knowledge are your best defenses against the bad guys.
Happy Spring/Summer,
Edward