Triona's Tech Tips

How can you keep your new computer running as smoothly as it did when you took it out of the box?

The very first thing you should do is install a good security program. As I’ve mentioned, the freebies are no longer enough. You need a robust software suite that includes antivirus, anti-spyware and a firewall. See here for my antivirus recommendations for Windows and Mac.

Next, make sure your computer software is updated to the latest version. Even out of the box, there may be new updates available. For Windows computers, visit update.microsoft.com. Mac users should run Software Updates under the Apple menu.

Windows users should strongly consider installing a browser other than Internet Explorer, such as Mozilla Firefox. You can still use Internet Explorer if you have to, but the alternate should be your default. This will help keep you safe from viruses and spyware.

While you’re setting up your new computer, configure backups at the same time. You can use an external hard drive (most come with automatic backup software) or choose an online option. See here for more information on backups.

Don’t forget to fill out the warranty card for your new computer. Should you buy the extended warranty? That’s up to you. Personally I don’t think it makes sense to spend a lot of money on a warranty for a computer that cost less than $500, but I’d want to protect a more expensive investment.

And, finally, have fun with your new computer!

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Every year I share some fun and innovative computer gift ideas. Try some of these for the special people on your list.

1. Apple iPad
   The iPad is one of this year’s top tech gifts, and it’s more than just a gimmick. The iPad is changing the way we use computers. With the power of the Internet plus the wide variety of apps available at the App Store, there’s very little you can’t do with an iPad.
2. Speck Cases for iPads, iPhones, and Laptops
   Of course, once you get that iPad you’ll want to protect it. Speck makes great cases for iPads as well as for iPhones and both PC and Mac laptops.
3. Adobe Photoshop Elements 9.0
   This software program for Windows and Mac lets you edit and organize your photos.
4. Sid Meier’s Civilization V
   This turn-based strategy game for Windows and Mac is highly addictive (just ask my husband).
5. USB Fridge
   Need a cold drink in a hurry? The USB Fridge plugs into your computer’s USB port and promises to chill a can of your favorite drink in minutes.

Happy Holidays to all of you!

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I’ve seen a number of people lately whose Windows computers were infected with a particularly nasty fake antivirus scam called ThinkPoint. Please take precautions to protect yourself against this scam and others like it.

Fake antivirus software is the latest arrow in the cybercriminal’s quiver of scams. These rogue security programs mimic real antivirus programs but are actually viruses in and of themselves. They will do anything and everything to get you to buy them. I’ve written about them here, here, here and here.

What makes ThinkPoint so obnoxious is that it embeds itself by changing your Windows settings so that the ONLY thing that can run on your computer is ThinkPoint. It does this by making itself the shell, or the interface that lets you communicate with your computer’s operating system. In other words, it wraps itself around Windows like a giant eel and won’t let you in unless you buy it.  Of course, you’re not so much buying the software as paying a ransom (which is why such programs are sometimes called ransomware).

Thinkpoint spreads through a variety of means. To gain a toehold, it displays fake Microsoft Security Essentials alerts. Microsoft Security Essentials is a real program, but these alerts are generated by the ThinkPoint virus to trick you into letting it deeper into your computer.

ThinkPoint: Fake Microsoft Security Essentials window

From then on, ThinkPoint displays the following window whenever you try to start your computer.

ThinkPoint hijacking your Windows desktop

If you click the only available option, “Safe Startup,” the software will pretend to scan, pretend to find infections and then start pestering you to pay money to remove them. But the real infection is ThinkPoint itself, and any virus buddies it may invite along for the ride.

ThinkPoint pretends to scan and find viruses

There are ways to remove ThinkPoint, but it can be tricky, especially if there are other infections present on your computer. Malwarebytes is one of my favorite removal tools, but in this case you may have a hard time getting the computer to a point where you can run it. Your best protection against ThinkPoint and other fake security software is prevention. Use a reliable, bona fide security program, use secure passwords, and follow the advice I offered about what to do if your email account is hijacked.

If you’ve been infected by ThinkPoint or other viruses or malware (and are in my service area, Chicago’s north and west suburbs), I would be happy to help you remove them. You can contact me here

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