Serving East Mississippi and West Alabama

Types of Infection

When you listen to the news, you hear about many different forms of electronic infection. The most common are:

• Viruses – A virus is a small piece of software that piggybacks on real programs. For example, a virus might attach itself to a program such as a spreadsheet program. Each time the spreadsheet program runs, the virus runs, too, and it has the chance to reproduce (by attaching to other programs) or wreak havoc.
• E-mail viruses – An e-mail virus moves around in e-mail messages, and usually replicates itself by automatically mailing itself to dozens of people in the victim’s e-mail address book.
• Worms – A worm is a small piece of software that uses computer networks and security holes to replicate itself. A copy of the worm scans the network for another machine that has a specific security hole. It copies itself to the new machine using the security hole, and then starts replicating from there, as well.
• Trojan horses – A Trojan horse is simply a computer program. The program claims to do one thing (it may claim to be a game) but instead does damage when you run it (it may erase your hard disk). Trojan horses have no way to replicate automatically.

Install anti-virus software from a well-known, reputable company,

UPDATE it regularly, and USE it regularly.  New viruses come out every single day; an a-v program that hasn't been updated for several months will not provide much protection against current viruses.

Virus scan any new programs or other files that may contain executable

code before you run or open them, no matter where they come from.  There have been cases of commercially distributed floppy disks and CD-ROMs spreading virus infections.

Viruses are software programs, and they can do the same things as any other programs running on a computer. The actual effect of any particular virus depends on how it was programmed by the person who wrote the virus. Some viruses are deliberately designed to damage files or otherwise interfere with your computer’s operation, while others don’t do anything but try to spread themselves around. But even the ones that just spread themselves are harmful, since they damage files and may cause other problems in the process of spreading.

Be _extremely_ careful about accepting programs or other files during

on-line chat sessions: this seems to be one of the more common means that people wind up with virus or Trojan horse problems.  And if any other family members (especially younger ones) use the computer, make sure they know not to accept any files while using chat.

7.  Do regular backups. Some viruses and Trojan horse programs will erase or corrupt files on your hard drive, and a recent backup may be the only way to recover your data.

Ideally, you should back up your entire system on a regular basis.  If this isn't practical, at least backup files that you can't afford to lose or that would be difficult to replace: documents, bookmark files, address books, important E-mail, etc.

Note that viruses can’t do any damage to hardware: they won’t melt down your CPU, burn out your hard drive, cause your monitor to explode, etc. Warnings about viruses that will physically destroy your computer are usually hoaxes, not legitimate virus warnings.

NEW SERVICES

Servicing East Mississippi and West Alabama

We are about to ramp up our HOME SERVICES! 

In short, we come to YOU!  Just give us a call and we’ll schedule a time that’s convenient to you and we’ll stop by and see what your problem or needs may be.  We’ll either fix the problem right then or if need be, we take your computer back to our home office and fix what you problems you may be having.

This is a much cheaper and better solution and most of the problems we see are just cleaning your computer for any of the following:

1. Virus Removal
2. Mal-Ware Removal
3. Spyware Removal
4. Cleaning your Temp Cache
5. Registry Cleaning

Doing this type of work can take hours as we have to run a host of different scans but you don’t get billed but for when we start the scans and when we diagnose any issues found in those scans which is a huge savings to you!  

Contact us via our Contact Page or call

601-527-5941

support@aaacomputersofms.com

Protecting your computer and your DATA.

There are a few steps to learn and a few applications (programs) that one must at least have a cursory understanding if they are going to be able to protect their computer and more importantly the crucial data on their computer.  Otherwise, you are just setting yourself up for problems and having to spend a lot of money to get your computer back the “way it was”, assuming that you can recover any data that may be lost or corrupted. 

#1–Back up:  Make sure that any file(s) that you “save” or “save as” is placed in a folder where you can find it or them…preferably under “my documents” (see below).  This way you can back up any documents, e-mail, pictures, etc with a few mouse clicks.  If you have to re-format for ANY reason, you don’t lose any information.  It’s not a question as to whether or not you will have to reformat; it’s only a question as to when.  Therefore, back up often and you will protect your critical data.  There are even some programs that will allow you to take a “snapshot” of all your settings, etc so that you can get your computer back exactly the way you have it.  One of these programs is called Norton Ghost and is definitely worth the cost of buying it.  Also, it is important to note that most viruses will infect your e-mail and e-mail is backed up in “batches” so backing up that information often will save you from losing all of your e-mail should your back up “batch” file become infected.  You can put back all e-mail backups that are not infected.  If you “batch” file backup is infected, then you will LOSE ALL YOUR E-MAIL, as you cannot put viruses back on your system from your back up disks!

#2–Install Anti-Virus software and update it daily or at least every few days.  New viruses or even strains of viruses come out all the time and the only way to “TRY” to stay ahead of these threats is to keep up with the latest definitions and removal tools. Also, you have to remember to “scan” your computer for viruses often.  You can set up you AV to automatically scan, but that depends upon whether or not you leave your computer on all the time and what time you set up your AV program to scan.   If you don’t scan for viruses, you will never know if your computer is infected.  Unfortunately, virus protection in most cases costs money…but it’s better to pay now rather than later.  However AVG is free and there are also FREE scans on the Internet but they may or may not offer removal of viruses for FREE. 

#3.  Get spyware removal programs… For spyware removal, I recommend AD-AWARE by Lava Soft. You can download it free at this link: http://www.lavasoftusa.com/software/adaware/

RUN UPDATES OFTEN.  You can also get Spybot Search and Destroy, which is FREE and or pay for other products such as Pest Control.  In fact, many users (including myself) suggest running both free applications as well as some that are not free so make sure that you can remove all spyware.  Each different program picks up different types of spyware.  Be careful though, some spyware removal programs are actually spyware themselves and will infect you computer once you install the software.  Make sure that you are dealing with a reputable company.

 #4—Get a Trojan horse removal program (optional).  Your spyware removal and anti-virus should get rid of most if not all of these programs, but in order to be completely safe, then get a dedicated Trojan remover.  Since Trojans are spyware-like and virus-like, they cross the threshold of being spyware or viruses…and therefore may not be removed by spyware or anti-virus.

#5–Get a Firewall, Pop-up Blocker, Adware and spyware removal tools…these are all FREE, if you get the right ones (see below for the one’s I prefer).  Get them and learn how to use them!  It doesn’t take long and all you have to do is read a little.  If you are using a network (wireless or hardwired) or if you are using Broadband (Cable or DSL) it would be wise to invest about $40 into a “hardware” firewall.  This “hardware” firewall will block MOST if not all intruders before they even get to your computer.  If you couple a “hardware” firewall with Zone Alarm, a “software” firewall almost 100% of “hackers” or intruders will move on to more fertile ground and skip trying to get into your system, as it just isn’t worth the time.  There are plenty of other people with little or no security at all that they can “hack”. As for Adware and spyware see below.

#6–Update Windows regularly.  Get the latest security patches and software fixes FREE @ www.windowsupdate.com

#7—Defragment your computer OFTEN.  At least once a month and more often if you are using your computer a lot and especially if you are working with, moving, creating, or deleting large files.  With WIN 98, ME hit CONTROL/ALT/Delete once and then close each application one at a time that is running except “systray” and “explorer”.  Disable your “screen saver” right click anywhere on your desktop and left click properties, then click on “screen saver” and put NONE. This will prevent your screen saver from starting the defrag process over again by coming on during defrag. Win 2000 or later, just turn off your screen saver and then defrag. 

Important Definitions and explanations:

Adware is software designed to push advertising out to Internet users, most commonly through advertising banners and pop-up windows. Adware is often packaged with computer programs and is installed along with those programs. The program developers contend that the adware helps them recover their development costs and ultimately keeps costs down for the consumer.

While the concept for adware seems sound, critics point out many problems with the systems. Adware is often installed surreptitiously — you may not be given a chance to choose whether or not you want it. To complicate matters further, many adware programs are not listed under the Windows “Add/Remove” programs and don’t include uninstall procedures or instructions. When a computer is running multiple types of adware, it can be rendered completely useless — system resources are tied up delivering advertising in one form or another.  DO NOT DOWNLOAD ANY FREE SOFTWARE unless you read about it first!!!!!  You could get some bad software that has malicious programs attached to the “free” software application that will wreak havoc with your computer. 

Some adware includes code to track your personal information and pass it on to third parties, without your knowledge or consent. Such software has been labeled “Spyware” and is the subject of intense outcry by Internet privacy groups.  Spyware can even track ALL of your keystrokes and send that data to a third party…that means even extremely personal information could be sent to someone that should NOT have that data including credit card numbers, home address, phone numbers, etc…don’t be a victim!

Spyware is a class of software that gathers information about computer users without their knowledge or consent. Like adware, spyware is often packaged with other applications and is installed as part of that applications setup routine. However, some spyware can install itself on your computer as a “drive-by” download, through computer viruses, or through deceptive Internet links.

The primary difference between adware and spyware is the issue of consent. Software that collects information about you with your consent is not spyware, so long as you are made aware of what data is being collected, and what that data will be used for. Spyware doesn’t give you this information — it relies on secrecy to collect information and push it out to advertisers or other parties.

Malware is the name given to software that has been developed to do harm to computer systems. This “malicious software” includes computer viruses, worms, and Trojan horses.

Another Explanation: Spyware:  Any software that covertly gathers user information through the user’s Internet connection without his or her knowledge, usually for advertising purposes. Spyware applications are typically bundled as a hidden component of freeware or shareware programs that can be downloaded from the Internet; however, it should be noted that the majority of shareware and freeware applications do not come with spyware. Once installed, the spyware monitors user activity on the Internet and transmits that information in the background to someone else. Spyware can also gather information about e-mail addresses and even passwords and credit card numbers.

Spyware is similar to a Trojan horse in that users unwittingly install the product when they install something else. A common way to become a victim of spyware is to download certain peer-to-peer file swapping products that are available today.

Aside from the questions of ethics and privacy, spyware steals from the user by using the computer’s memory resources and also by eating bandwidth as it sends information back to the spyware’s home base via the user’s Internet connection. Because spyware is using memory and system resources, the applications running in the background can lead to system crashes or general system instability.

Because spyware exists as independent executable programs, they have the ability to monitor keystrokes, scan files on the hard drive, snoop other applications, such as chat programs or word processors, install other spyware programs, read cookies, change the default home page on the Web browser, consistently relaying this information back to the spyware author who will either use it for advertising/marketing purposes or sell the information to another party.

Licensing agreements that accompany software downloads sometimes warn the user that a spyware program will be installed along with the requested software, but the licensing agreements may not always be read completely because the notice of a spyware installation is often couched in obtuse, hard-to-read legal disclaimers.

How do I know if adware, spyware or malware is installed on my computer?

One of the best indications you can have that your computer is running adware or spyware is the sudden and unexplained appearance an excessive pop-up ads. While some websites open pop-up windows as you click through them, adware and spyware may generate pop-up ads even when you aren’t browsing the Internet. If you’re using a dial-up connection, your computer may attempt to dial your ISP anytime it detects certain actions or keystrokes.

There are a number of tools available that can detect and even remove adware, spyware and malware. Some of these tools are available at a modest price, and may offer a free trial period. Some are available free to home users.

You must remember to run adware and spyware scans often and make sure that you do not remove programs or other files that are important.  If you do not know what files are not necessary, then you should spend a little time figuring out what is what.  The easiest way to do this is to go to www.google.com.  Search for the file name and extension and you should be able to determine what the file is and whether or not you need it.  If the file is not important for windows to run, then you can remove it.  If you are unsure if the file is absolutely necessary, then you can use the Windows tools to find/search for the file, then write down the path of the file, and then cut/paste it to a floppy disk.  Make sure that you know the exact path  (e.g. c:\windows\system\system32 or the like) so that you can replace the file if you have any problems.  The path is simply how your computer gets to certain files on your computer. (If you have one hard drive, the path will always start with c:  if you have CD-ROM, then the path for those files will usually start with d: )

IMPORTANT – These tools are NOT a substitute for a reputable, up-to-date anti-virus program. While they may detect some types of malware, they are not specifically designed to protect against computer viruses. Always make sure you have an antivirus program with updated signature files running on your computer.

If you have virus protection installed on your computer it is “extremely” important that you update it regularly.  You should connect to your virus vendor’s website and download the latest virus definitions and removal tools as often as possible.  You can also set up your “scheduling agent” to update virus definitions at least once a week depending on how often you use your computer.   If you use your computer regularly, you should update virus protection daily.  

Viruses and Worms

Computer viruses behave much like biological viruses. That’s how they got their name. Viruses “infect” executable files (program or .exe  “*” denotes ANY file name). When those files are then “run” (started) the virus also runs. They then infect more files and do other damage. The infection continues to grow. Pretty soon the computer is sick as a dog.

If one of these files gets transmitted to another computer, for example by email attachment, and if the file is opened, the other computer will be infected too. Sounds like a cold or the flu to me. In fact, the same math used to analyze the spread of biological viruses has been used to model the spread of computer viruses. IF YOUR COMPUTER is infected and you send e-mail to another friend or associate, then you risk infecting THEIR computer.  Once you send out one virus to a friend or associate, they may block you from their list and NEVER accept anything from you again. 

Most viruses are designed to vandalize computers and data, or simply mark them with graffiti. Their objective is damage for fun or revenge. Infected floppy disks used to be the main attack vector for viruses. Now they arrive in email attachments, downloaded files, or as part of certain worms.

Worms

Worms are similar to viruses. The main difference is they install their own file(s). They do not infect other files. They don’t multiply within the computer either. They multiply by sending multiple copies of themselves to other computers. In other words, they multiple within a network and damage all computer in that network. The network can be an intranet within an organization, the Internet, or both.   Remember, when you connect to the Internet, you are in essence connecting to a network.  If you are using peer-to-peer, you are definitely connecting to another computer via a network connection. 

Worms move through the network in one of two ways. The classic strain arrives as email attachments. When a victim opens an attachment the worm goes to work mailing out copies of the worm or malicious code and uses the addresses it finds in address books and email messages on that computer to infect your friends and contacts computers.

The newer strain, called network worms, works like an automated hacker. Infected computers scan the Internet for more computers like themselves — computers that are vulnerable to invasion by the worm. When they find one, they inject a copy of the worm. The cycle repeats and the population explosion begins. Un-patched computers, or those without a firewall are the ones that are vulnerable.

Worms can be used to vandalize or mark with graffiti. The objective is more often larceny these days. Worm writers have learned that crime pays. They may scan for personal information, inject spyware, or install a Trojan horse. The result is compromise of your financial details, or even worse, theft of your identity.

Protection

You once needed only an anti-virus program for protection from pests. “Virus” is often used today as a catchall to mean viruses, worms, spyware, Trojans — any kind of malware. These vermin aren’t all the same. Anti-virus programs only protect against some strains of malware. Also anti-virus programs do not scan for spyware and other malware that is already installed. You need broad-spectrum anti-malware to complete your protection package.

In addition, it’s easy for a virus writer to spoof anti-virus software. All he needs to do is release trivial variants of the virus. It can be several days before anti-virus companies catch up. Anti-virus programs are more like a parachute than a safe landing. Knowing what not to click is more important, but you need the anti-virus in case you slip up.

Virus removal

Anti-virus programs can remove most, but not all, viruses and/or worms. You can get good information and in some cases free tools for removing the more “popular” ones at several anti-virus companies. It may be best to seek the help of a local expert though, especially if you are not absolutely sure what you are doing.  You could very well crash your entire system rendering it useless.

If you are running an OS such as Windows ME or XP, do not use a system restore point that may have a virus which could be dormant or even active or you will have to remove the virus again or possibly face a re-format. 

More on the Web

• Information on viruses, Trojan horses, worms, macros, and other vulnerabilities and exploits at Symantec’s “Security Response” center.
• The latest information on viruses, worms and hoaxes from Trend Micro™.
• Viruses take several forms.
• Read more about how viruses work.

Links to more virus and worm related information on the Web.

Much of this information has come from this link: http://cybercoyote.org/security/intro.shtml

Elements of Defense

Purpose of a defense system

The Internet is a rough place, and it’s getting rougher. What started as pranks, graffiti and vandalism has morphed into criminal activity — some of it international in scope. Therefore, you’d better know how to defend yourself.

The best defense in any context is always multi-layered. Think of it as a lock plus an intrusion alarm. The attack may get past one layer, but you hope the next one stops it. However, no defense is bulletproof. The object is to reduce the risk to an acceptable level.

Backup is job one

If you have backed up the essentials, you can restore Windows, and get on with your life if all else fails. Backups protect against computer failure and your own foibles to boot. In a way, a firewall is more essential for online defense, but you don’t do without the powerful last-ditch protection of systematic backup. You should back up all “critical data” often. 

I normally set up my computer so that backing up is a simple 1-2-3 process.  I store all of my important files in “my documents”.  Under “my documents” I create sub-folders such as “my applications”, which is all of the programs that I download from the Internet. I also create “my pictures”, “my word documents”, “my excel files”, and/or “my whatever”.   Within each subfolder such as “my word files”, I will create more sub-folders for what I need to keep organized such as “my book”, “my letters”, “my friends”, “my attachments” or whatever you like.  When you are ready to backup, all you need to do is move all files from “my documents” to a blank CD and then add your mail from wherever that may be stored and you can back up all necessary files in less than 10 minutes. 

If you stop to consider that a blank CD will only cost you $0.25 or so, then it’s easy to see that’s a quarter spent very wisely.  If you want, you can also purchase a CD-RW that allows you to write over what was already there, thus you will only have to reuse one CD-RW.  However, before you put any files back on your computer that you have backed up, make sure that you run Anti-virus on that disk to make sure that you don’t re-infect your machine.  Remember that a blank CD will hold up to 700Mb, which should be more than enough to back up most of your documents and mail.  However, music files and pictures should be backed up separately as they will take up a whole lot more room. 

Perimeter defense

The best place to stop hackers and malicious computer code is before they enter. Your firewall is the first thing that anything from the Internet hits. It will stop most hackers and Internet worms. A skilled and determined hacker can get past most firewalls, but it’s not likely that you’ll be the target of an attack like that. I’d never go online — even for a few seconds — without a firewall.

I personally use Zone alarm, which is FREE.  You will have to configure the application so that you don’t get too many pop-ups when people are trying to ping your machine.  “Pinging” is the process whereby outsiders will try to send a “ping” to your machine to see if your machine will “ping” back.  If your machine “pings” back, then you have an open port and you are vulnerable to attack.  There is NO WAY to turn off your machine from “Pinging back” unless you turn off your computer and unplug it from the Internet, but you can control who is allowed in to your computer and what applications can “call out” through your firewall.  You will have to figure out which applications that you want to allow connection to the Internet and which ones that you don’t.  If you are not sure, then “Google” the application and see what the application does.  If you don’t need it to connect, then don’t allow it.  You also should limit the number of applications that try to act as a “server”.  A “server” means that your computer is open to share the contents on your computer. 

Email and Web pages go right through your firewall without even slowing down. Your requests initiates them and your firewall is configured to allow the response. As a result, your (informed) common sense is the only perimeter defense that you have against any malicious content email or web pages might contain. Firewalls can’t protect a naive user. If you don’t know what application is trying to connect when you are prompted by zone alarm, then look up the filename (*.exe) file on Google. This will tell you what you should let connect to the internet and what not to allow.  Also try to limit any programs that try to act as a server.  If you computer is acting as a server, then hackers can access your system. 

If you have zone alarm and broadband, engage Internet lock when not using the Internet. This will stop ALL TRAFFIC and secure your machine.

Internal Defense

Some hazards are going to slip through your firewall, and you’re not going to catch all of the others. That’s where internal defense comes in.

The gated perimeter gives one a sense of security. However, you still need to be cautious. A few Internet residents have learned that the hard way. You may want to keep your doors and shed locked at night to provide some internal defense.

Anti-virus and anti-malware programs can stop most attacks that get inside. But don’t count on them – they aren’t perfect. That’s what makes peripheral defense so important. You need multiple layers, internal and external.

Configuring Windows, your browser, and your email client correctly, and keeping them patched provide the essential inner layer of a sound defense system. If they’re strong and up to date they will brush off most of the threats that make it past the other defense layers.  You must make sure that you run windows update at least once a month and once a week would be even better.  Again, you can set up your “scheduling agent” to do this. 

Test your defenses at “shields up”.  www.grc.com and there are lots of free tests online that you can use these days. It’s worse to have a defective defense than to have no defense at all. With your false sense of security you’re bound to stumble into a trap.

Test your Online Protection

Scan your computer online

“Scan” means different things, depending on the context. Firewall scans are a test of its ability to defend your computer. Virus and Trojan scans look for parasites that have already invaded your computer. Some of these tests take a while, especially the first time, because they need to download some software before they can run the tests. The actual scan may take up to 20 minutes or more depending on the speed of your computer. 

Virus protection tests

• Simple tests: Get a feel for how your anti-virus program would handle a real virus. These tests use a standard “dummy” virus that that all anti-virus programs should recognize.
• GFI Email Security Testing Zone: Easy but comprehensive testing of your email security. Find out if you are vulnerable to any or all of the 11 most common email threats, including viruses, worms and other malware.
• Jason’s Toolbox: Test your email defenses against the most dangerous attachments.

Firewall test sites

Firewalls do most of their work with little fanfare. How do you know yours is actually working? You can’t tell unless you test it. You can’t test it directly, because the tests must come from outside your computer. You need to find a test site that will rigorously challenge it.

• “Shields Up!!” at GRC.com (Click the “Shields Up” logo.) The first test site that I discovered. It’s still the one I have most confidence in. Steve Gibson understands the nitty-gritty of Internet packets, which is where hacking, begins.
• The “Sygate” site is easy to navigate. Sygate tests take several minutes to run, so I assume they are fairly thorough.
• “SecuritySpace security audits, also known as network vulnerability assessments, provide the web’s most cost-effective, comprehensive, full disclosure audit service available.” Highly recommended.
• You will find these sites and more at http://www.dozleng.com/.

Online scans for Malware

Trojan-horses, spyware, hijackers, dialers, etc., as well as viruses and worms.

Is your computer infested with parasites? You can install anti-malware software, or screen it online first. Online malware scanners only scan while you visit the site though. Installing antivirus and anti-malware software provides full time protection. It’s a good idea to do both though.

Online test sites often use “ActiveX controls” for the scans. The scan site downloads and installs these controls plus signatures. They’re less system invasive than conventional programs. If the site uses ActiveX you’ll need to use Internet Explorer and allow it to download an Active X “control” (software) to get these tests to work. ActiveX is an abomination from Microsoft that is often misused by malware, but that’s a separate issue. It’s fine for this job.

It takes 10 minutes or so (56 K dialup connection) to download the ActiveX controls or other software the first time you run a scan. Depending on how much you have on your hard drive, it takes 10 minutes or so for the scan. It’s best not to do anything else with your computer while the download and scanning occurs. You’ll be asked if it’s OK to allow scripts to run and install ActiveX controls, but the sites listed here are widely used and fully trustworthy.

• Webroot Software provides a free privacy test called “Spy Audit”, which scans for spyware.
• PestPatrol provides a free online service called PestScan. It does a thorough job, scanning for all sorts of malware, including Trojan horses, hacker tools, spyware, and adware.
• Trend Micro’s Housecall site can remove malware as well as scan for its presence.
• http://www.pcflank.com/test.htm — you can run a couple of basic tests at “PC Flank” which will give you some idea of how well your firewall protects you, and scan for the presence of the most dangerous and widespread Trojans.

The best Trojan horse scans online

PC Flank’s Trojan Test, TrojanScan.com and Trend Micro’s “Housecall” are the three best places that I know of to get Trojan scans online. They’ll also give you advice on how to manually remove Trojans if you have any, but I’d get a good anti-Trojan program.

Virus scans online

You can go online to get your computer scanned for viruses. You may not have an antivirus program installed, or you may want a “second opinion”. These tests take a while, especially the first time, because they need to download some software before they can run the tests. I believe you’ll need to use Internet Explorer to run them.

• Norton (Symantec): Test your firewall and scan for viruses and Trojans. Requires you to use Internet Explorer.
• Trend Micro: Scan your computer for viruses and Trojans. You must use Internet Explorer, and have Java and Javascript enabled.

Install Anti-spyware/Anti-malware Programs

You may find your anti-malware program quite confusing the first time you use one. Don’t let that stop you. Use the program’s Help file, get someone to help you get started, or get more information at the “malware removal” page.

Basic spyware/malware protection

The widely acclaimed “Spybot Search and Destroy” is the best choice for basic malware protection. In fact, it’s good at any level, and it’s free!

1. Read the Spybot S&D tutorial online.

2. Download Spybot S&D. Then come back here.

3. Read the material at “Spyware/Malware Removal” before you go on.

4. Install Spybot S&D (choose default mode if offered).

5. Read through Spybot Help [Help in the menu, or F1].

6. Go online and update the “detections” (signatures).

7. Scan for malware [Click the "Search and Destroy" icon].

Don’t panic at what you see.

8. Remove the pests following these guidelines.

9. Clean up by running an anti-virus scan.

Strong spyware/malware protection

Add PestPatrol to the elements of the “basic” defense above to get “strong” protection. Or take your pick at the “anti-malware” page if you like.

Advice on removing malware if you find some on your PC.

Robust spyware/malware protection

Install Trojan Hunter in addition to the elements for a “strong” defense to get “robust” protection. Some Trojans are hidden deeper than most other malware. You need special purpose Anti-Trojan software to root them out.

Advice on removing malware if you find some on your PC.

More on the Web

• You can scan your computer for spyware and malware online: PestScan at PestPatrol, and PC Pitstop are two of the best places. Give them a try, even if you’re just curious.
• Links to more malware defense related information on the Web.

Malware/Spyware Removal

What to remove

Cookies, Tracking Cookies — doesn’t matter. DSO Exploit — should be safe to remove. Don’t panic, it won’t get worse, as the damage is already done.

How to remove it

Use Spybot S&D as an example: Sidebar is the primary menu, which nice but not conventional. It is confusing at first. But most protective software does it that way. Most provide backup (restore for SSD), but you could set a System Restore point.

Online help with malware removal

Read what you can find at websites for the anti-malware programs. Start with the one for the program you’re using. Read the short tutorial at Patrick M. Colla’s Spybot-S&D site. PestPatrol’s site has information on a vast number of specific spyware, Trojan and other pests.

The definitive anti-spyware website: “Rogue/Suspect Anti-Spyware Products & Web Sites” has good information on what to do if you’re infested, forums, etc. If Your PC is Infested w/ Spyware…” (in the left hand links at the top of the page).

http://www.spywareinfo.com/ — offers help with spyware removal.

Hackers

To hack (maliciously) is to use your skill and knowledge to trespass in other computers. Hackers use tools that are available in the underground, heuristic methods and “social engineering” to insinuate their way into computers and computer networks.

Social engineering is the skill of getting passwords or other information about systems from people who should know better. The hacker poses as someone with a legitimate purpose for getting in and many people fall for it.

The most common hacks

“The majority of the successful operating system attacks come from only a few software vulnerabilities. This can be attributed to the fact that attackers are opportunistic, take the easiest and most convenient route, and exploit the best-known flaws with the most effective and widely available attack tools.” — quote from SANS Institute

You’re exposed to hackers every time you’re on the Internet. When you’re online you PC has an Internet address assigned to it. Crackers can easily find your PC and break in. They do that while you’re busy surfing, or reading your e-mail.

You wouldn’t know they’re trying and probably won’t know if they succeed until later if ever. For example, they might make off with your bank account number and PIN. You wouldn’t know until the money was gone. Your bank would be dubious about your protest though.

Most hackers aren’t out to get you personally. They want to use your computer for their own nefarious purposes, but they’ll usually go away if yours is well protected. Some of the things they want your computer for:

1. Hide their intrusion to sensitive computers by going through yours.
2. Store and distribute spam, porn, pirated music, and warez (bogus software).
3. Attack their enemies.

Network worms

Network worms are a form of automated hacking. They have the capability to scan vast numbers of Internet addresses. They get in by finding computers that are vulnerable because they have not been patched against known vulnerabilities. Once they get in, they install spyware or Trojan, or do many of the other things a hacker might do. Worms also propagate by using the newly infected computer to look for more computers to infect. They can flood the Internet in a matter of minutes.

Heedless guests

The easiest place to hack into a computer is at the keyboard. When’s a hacker going to be sitting at yours? It’s not likely, unless you leave your laptop sitting around. But wait, have you ever considered what heedless guest users might do? They don’t have to be malicious to delete things or disable your computer. Backup is a good defense. Of course, just don’t let anyone set down and use your computer unless they KNOW what they are doing!

What to watch out for:

Deception: It’s easy to be taken in by urgent email, an enticing pop-up, or a slick Web site. Even experts are taken in. Clicking the wrong link can ruin your whole day. Deception is a vector for viruses and worms, spyware, scams, fraud, and identity-theft.

Counterfeit and malicious email: Email messages are used for the majority of dirty tricks and fraud online. Most of them are designed to look like legitimate messages. It’s very hard to tell some of them from real messages. There are effective ways to deal with them though.

Malicious attachments: Counterfeit email and malicious attachments go hand in hand. Even if the message appears to come from someone you know, it could be an email bomb.

Phishing: Email designed to filch account information from you. The message often links to a fake website where the theft takes place.

Fake and malicious websites: Often used in conjunction with phishing, but there are many other kinds of malicious websites.

Hoaxes: Usually comes in an email, warning of some dire result if you don’t take urgent action, and pass the warning on to everybody you know. The warning often directs you to remove some file(s) because it’s a virus, or baloney like that. Turns out, the file is required by Windows.

Dodging the trouble

Manage email safely: Email and email attachments are the most likely way for you to run into trouble on the Internet. Know how to avoid the hazards of email.

Handle attachments safely: Be very careful how you handle attachments. Attachments present a bigger online threat to the average user than all the other hazards combined. Know how to do it safely.

Validate files: Be careful how you handle email attachments, and files you download. The same principles apply. Know when and how to check them out, and how to open them safely.

Surf safely: There are many traps for the unwary out there on the Web. Sidestep them with a few precautions.

Download with caution: Accept files only from well-known and trusted sources that you fully trust. Even if you know the person that is sending an attachment, don’t open it UNLESS you call them first!  They may have not sent the attachment, but their “infected” computer did! 

Instant Messaging and File Sharing: A riksy microcosm of the Internet, with it’s own set of hackers, worms and Trojans. I would never mix sensitive information on the same computer with these peer-to-peer services. There are things you can and should do to reduce the risk if you use your computer for casual purposes though.

Unfortunately, most of us don’t want to have to deal with any of this.  We just want our computer to work when we want to use it.  If you never connect to the Internet, then you most likely won’t have to worry about it.  But most, if not all, people connect to the Internet at some time or another and that’s where the problems begin.  If you learn enough to protect yourself, then you shouldn’t have any problems. 

Remember to clean out your “history”, your cookies, and delete all files on your computer that have been stored by your Internet browser.  In IE (Internet explorer), go to “Tools”, then “Internet options” and just delete history, cookies and files. 

Finally, PC PITSTOP is the best place to test your computer to see how well it is running.  It’s free and EASY to use! www.pcpitstop.com  If you spend the time and effort to learn how to protect yourself and your data, the less likely you will have to hire someone to “fix” your computer. The costs for IT pros are steadily on the rise.  Lastly if your computer is running very slow, you may try upgrading your memory. Check with www.crucial.com and you can find exactly what you may need. 

Contact us via out contact page or call!

601-527-5941

support@aaacomputersofms.com

There’s a lot of security holes that need to be plugged whether your a PC or a MAC – we can help! 

Give us a call!

CONTACT

support@aaacomputersofms.com

601-527-5941

AAA COMPUTERS is a Subdivision of:

ButterMilk Media

A NEW SOUTH DEVELOPMENT COMPANY

THE NUMBER ONE THING TO DO IF YOU HAVE IMPORTANT DATA ON YOUR COMPUTER IS BACK UP – but you must have something to back up to.

You can burn a DVD – or you could get an external hard drive.  There are a lot of ways to back up your computer – but if you do not – you can lose EVERYTHING in a matter of seconds and it may or may not be recoverable.  If it IS recoverable, it could cost a LOT of MONEY to get your precious data back!

1. IF you keep everything you do in my documents such as pictures, Word Files, XL Files or ANYTHING else it’s very easy to do!  If you have an external drive – just connect the drive and copy everything from MY DOCUMENTS to a folder you create on the external drive.
2. Back up your mail in my documents assuming you are not using a MAIL SERVER where the mail stay up on the internet.  If you use OUTLOOK you can back up to a folder you call “my mail” (for more information contact us)
3. File and transfer setting wizard (This allows you to save ALL of your File Settings and other setting such as how your desktop looks, etc.)
4. Back up your favorites in IE (Go to IE and click on FILE/EXPORT and then export “the bookmark” to your desktop or better still under “MY FAVORITES” under “MY DOCUMENTS”.
5. IF you have everything saved in MY DOCUMENTS all you have to do it burn a DVD if that is big enough (or burn 2 or 3) but disks get damaged, lost, scratched, etc…so the best way to save your information is to use external drive.

If you do not back up – you will lose your information – there are two types of hard drives that you must be aware of – those that have failed and those that WILL fail eventually.  They are mechanical devices that fail like all others – but they are also ELECTRONIC devices so static shock, lightning, or other types of electrical charges can make them fail.

IF you are concerned about messing up your system – then before you load anything or make any changes, CREATE a RESTORE POINT!  To create a system restore point is EASY. Go to Start/All Programs/system Tools/System Restore.  Open it – and then click on SET a restore point.  Name it whatever you like.  This will create place to get back to in case you may delete something necessary accidentally.   Usually if AAA computers fixes your computer a restore point is the first thing that is done – so if there’s any problems – we can get right back to where we were before we made any changes to your system.  Many applications will set a restore point for you…but if not, you should keep this in mind.

HOW TO KEEP YOUR COMPUTER CLEAN

A.  Make sure that you have Anti-Virus program running at all time and make sure to update it regularly and run scans often.  I use AVG and it’s free.  You can set it to update daily and run scans daily if you wish.  If you do not have Anti-Virus and keep it updated…you risk losing EVERYTHING on your computer.  You will need to clean out your VIRUS Vault if you EVER see any virus like activity through a scan or normal use of your computer.

B.  Download Anti-Spyware Programs – they will keep people from tracking your information or worse create a back-door into your computer so that the can either use your computer as host to hack other computers or worse gain access to your personal information and possibly steal your identity.  These need to updated as well and scans should be run as often as possible.  I recommend the following:

1. Ad-Aware (www.download.com)
2. Spybot Search and Destroy (download.com)’
3. Super-Anti-Spyware
4. Malwarebytes.org (download.com)

PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THAT YOU MUST UPDATE YOUR DEFINITIONS, just like Anti-Virus – so that you can keep up with any new forms of spyware and/or malware.

1. I also recommend using cleaning applications to rid your computer of temporary and junk files as well as bad registry files that are just taking up space or slowing down your computer. Always create a system restore point (more on that later)  I use the following:

1. Glary Utilities from Download.com (clean temps file registry etc – one click to scan and one click to repair)
2. C-Cleaner (download.com) = A great cleaning application for both junk and registry files.
3. EZ-Cleaner (Toni-Arts program) but NEVER, EVER delete duplicate files – your computer will be completely TOAST – BE VERY CAREFUL with this application. IF YOU ARE A NOVICE – do NOT use this!

1. You can also go to Internet Explorer and go to TOOLS – Internet options – and then DELETE – you can pick what you want to delete but you should clean out cookies, history, etc – unless you want others to see where you’ve been.  Also cleaning out Auto-complete, stored usernames and passwords if VITAL if you don’t want your passwords to be stolen.  But you will notice that if you follow the instructions in section C above – most of that will already be cleaned for you.
2. After you have completely cleaned your computer DEFRAGMENT your hard drive.  This may take a long time if it’s the first time you’ve run it – but the more you run the application the faster it gets – and the better your computer will work.

Follow these simple guidelines and your computer will thank you – and you should be able to work more efficiently and be protected from outside harm. (See below)

CAVEAT: NEVER OPEN AN E-MAIL IF YOU DO NOT KNOW WHO IT’S FROM – a simple picture or attachment can contain viruses, spyware or Trojan Horses that can harm you computer!  Never click on something that you do not know what it is – especially a pop-up that may WARN you that your computer is infected – those ARE VIRUSES inviting you to allow someone to damage your data or possibly take over your computer!

Contact:

support@aaacomputersofms.com

Servicing East Mississippi and West Alabama

There’s always been a battle between PC and Mac’s – I don’t even need to go into Linux as unless you’re a pretty hard core computer enthusiast you probably don’t see much Linux – although your website could be hosted on a Linux Server – if it’s not then you’re probably using an antiquated way of building websites.

Be that as it may – a massive attack was launched by three separate hackers just to PROVE that MACS are now a HUGE TARGET – and I predicted this quite some time ago – I’d have to go back and find that post – but suffice it to say – it was getting more prevalent and I was getting more and more calls to fix MACS.

Now don’t get my wrong – I’m a fan of MACS especially since you can skip the .dll files and use ALL of your processing speed and RAM for the task at hand – which is a major flaw with Windows – however, if you’re running a MAC and are NOT running Virtual PC – then you’re really not running a TRUE business – as the business WORLD is ALL PC – and I’m not THRILLED about that statement – but it’s a FACT – Mac still has a VERY SMALL part of the market share.   But I get tired of people saying that a MAC is the end all to be all – as they are NOT – and they have their own issues as does any technology as technology changes all the time at ever increasing speed!

And I do “get it” that a MAC is more for the “Creative Types” – but then again, I’d say 70% of what I do is “CREATIVE in NATURE” – it just ends up in the business world and so I use Linux, MAC and PC.   I also prefer the COSTS of LINUX – FREE and my ability to build a “tricked out PC” with MORE RAM and screaming fast processing for one fifth the price as an OUT OF THE BOX MAC!
I also do NOT like the FACT that you really can’t build a MAC from spare parts…as I like to build servers – (especially LOVE my LINUX SERVER which has not even needed anything but a good cleaning – dust removal and a defrag and that’s about it – it’s RED HAT 2 or something really OLD but it works like a charm!

With that said, here’s my analogy for the difference between the Linux, PC and MAC user when it comes to “maintenance”, keeping in mind that this is outside of your NAT (router) or your HW FIREWALL – which if you don’t have – get ONE!

If you’re a LINUX user – you’re working out or your basement – you can write code – and you LIVE and BREATHE technology – nobody needs to tell you “how to maintain your network of servers or your main machine – as you just KNOW that it must be done…and LINUX as less likely to be Hacked as nobody really wants to read a bunch of code.

If you run PC and Windows -  it’s like you own your own house – you can add on to your Network easily – and you can work in the business world – BUT you are required to know the BASICS of computer maintenance – but there are countless FREE APPS that allow you to set up a SW FIREWALL – (HIGHLY RECOMMENCED), scheduled updates, clean your CACHE, Registry Files,  run AV (which Viruses are only 4% of the problems out there today), run Anti-Malware, Anti-SPYWARE, and a few other steps that keep your PC running in PERFECT SHAPE!  Completely Clean and working as it should!

MAC’s on the other hand are for people who want to live in a CONDO and do not want to do any “maintenance work” whatsoever, – well for those of you that don’t start to learn and understand that MACS are now just as vulnerable as ANY other OS – along with the browser you use, etc.  So you need to start looking around for a PLETHORA of Software to keep your computer clean and also to keep it working as it should – do NOT get lulled into a false sense of security!  Unfortunately, finding GREAT SW that’s FREE like you can with Windows – is just not as easy – so break out your pocket book or your credit care lest you get HACKED or infected with some really bad stuff!  Mac’s, thanks to Steve Jobs are not a HUGE TARGET – and it’s not IF somebody will find a whole – it’s only when – so will you be the next person that gets hit with something that wipes out your DATA?

Of course, I don’t care what OS you’re using you should be backing up and have a few drives that are NOT connected to your internal network all the time so that you can store that DATA so that it can not be access unless somebody is PHYSICALLY in your location.  I back up to internal drives a lot – but they are still vulnerable – and I also back up to external drives and have a FEW Drives in my Safety Deposit Box wrapped in vacuum packed and static free packaging- that’s my SUPER IMPORTANT STUFF – business files, my book(s) and of course my MASTERS and other stuff that I “CREATE” that I do not want to do that work over again.

If you just using CS-4 or CS-5 and not using any part of that software the creates HUGE FILES – then you could be just backing up to a CD – larger groups of files on a DVD – but that’s all you need -but if your doing audio and video – you’re going to need a TON of space – and that’s where I recommend GLYPH DRIVES – they can be daisy chained too – but again if you just using Phtoshop and Illustrator, InDesign etc – these files are dinky…compared to AV.  So you could just use IEEE 449 – but I prefer the next generation of IEEE 880 so I can work in REAL TIME from a GLYPH with PRO TOOLS – no more swapping out drives to work in Recording – just label, partition and get after it – but don’t get into a habit of NOT naming your files correctly OR taking notes as to what you’ve done – if you do both – when you return to that CD or VIDEO PROJECT you can all up the files easily and have NOTES as to what was tracked and when – (three takes, two takes, etc.) and this makes your life much easier – but I also am finding out that with Phtoshop, AI, and graphics apps I do a TON of “mock ups” so I devised a nice little protocol so that I can call up those files quickly – and I also make sure to go ahead and RENAME Or delete all UNTITLED PSD or AI files!   But I guess I’ve digressed…

Just remember NO OS is safe, all drives are going to fail – (there’s those that haven’t’ and those that WILL) Back up, run a HW and SW firewall besides your NAT – keep your machine clean of dust (especially the power fan and CPU fan), get organized – store your most important files OFF LINE and better still either use a FIREPROOF SAFE or a Safety Deposit box that is assuming you have CRUCIAL DATA from YEARS of working that you cannot lose -

And again, just because your a MAC – does NOT mean your safe – better batten down the hatches as your going to see more and more attacks on MAC’s in the future!
Contact: support@aaacomputersofms.com

We’ve got to build a site for our owner’s BOOK(S) FIRST – then we’ll get back to this – and we’re still looking at Site Layout and Design issues….

More to come…

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HOME COMPUTER TRAINING!

Servicing East Mississippi and West Alabama

Home Computer Training – or Classes on the Basics of maintaining your computer or how to work in the following:

MICROSOFT OFFICE

1. Word
2. Excel
3. Power Point
4. MS Access (Database)
5. Outlook
6. Publisher

HOME NETWORKING

If you want to learn how to configure your wireless router or set up a small home/office network, with file and printer sharing, just about any type of connection including how to make your Internet TV or DVD Player Connect to your Wireless router.

How to Build your Own Computer

Ever wanted to build a computer from scratch?   WE can show you how – and you can get a custom computer for much cheaper than an out of the box machine!   WE can customize the machine for Audio/Video Production, for Gaming, you name it!  Just whatever you need – as your “out of the box” machine may not have enough input/output devices for EVERYTHING you may need!  Give us a call!

Audio/Video Production Software

Are you tired of your standard old video that you can’t really edit?   Tired of trying to use Windows Movie Maker?  Want to add special effects, sound tracks and a host of other elements to make your home movies look like HOLLYWOOD  or close – we can show you how!

We also now working on MAC COMPUTERS, iPHONES, iPads, etc!

Give us  a call – 601-527-5941

support@aaacomputersofms.com