Computer Tip of the Day: How to Remove Adware from Your Computer

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Are you experiencing annoying pop-up ads on your computer? These ads, which appear on your desktop home or on your internet browsers, are caused by adware. Adware will show you unwanted ads when you browse the internet, sometimes even modifying web pages to display their ads and links. Learn how to remove adware.

remove adware

Adware is extremely annoying and usually gets installed on your computer when you unknowingly download it together with a legit program. This is known as bundled downloads (where unwanted programs are bundled together with good programs).

To remove the adware, you first need to check for any unknown programs on your computer. Go to your control panel and look at your list of installed programs. Check your recently installed programs and see if any of them seem to be the cause of the problem. Uninstall the programs that you don’t want.

You may not recognize which programs are causing the damage, so your next step should be to scan your computer for adware. Malwarebytes has software called AdwCleaner, which will scan your files for adware and remove it if found.

Next, you want to make sure that you don’t have any other malicious programs or malware on your PC. Install an anti-malware program and scan your computer for malware. Anti-malware programs are different than anti-virus programs, and you should have both of them installed on your PC. Malwarebytes and Hitman Pro are two of the most popular anti-malware programs out there. You can also use the Zemana Anti-Malware Portable to scan for browser hijackers and automatically remove them.

Lastly, you can reset your browser settings if you’re still experiencing problems.

For help with adware removal and for all of your PC needs, just contact us.

Computer tip of the day: Virus Protection

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In today’s computer tip of the day, the topic of protecting your PC is at hand and we would like to touch on the importance of virus protection. Whether you are browsing the net, making purchases, doing a bit of online banking or exchanging emails — a quality virus protection software is a must.

There are hundreds of thousands of individuals all over the world who want something from you — and that something may be money, sensitive data or just to simply wreak havoc on your system.

Many hackers, unfortunately, accomplish this by sending out computer viruses through email attachments, download files, and false websites or advertisements.

What is a computer virus anyway?

There are numerous types of viruses out there on the worldwide web. Thus, the way in which they can affect your computer may vary. Nonetheless, a virus is something that is created by computer hackers all over the world, who ultimately want to do harm to your computer. Here are a few examples of what can happen in the absence of virus protection:

  • Send out unauthorized messages and information
  • Damage portions of the system
  • Steal personal data such as passwords, banking info, etc…
  • Slow down computer performance

Just like a person with a lowered immune system, your computer without virus protection system is just as susceptible to falling ill. Quality virus protection can be your first line of defense against any potential risks of attack. Below are some listed features to look out for in an antivirus program:

  • Real-time scanner
  • Webmail protection
  • Scheduled scans
  • Compressed file scanner

If you, unfortunately, think or know you may have contracted a computer virus, don’t hesitate to contact us today. We are more than happy to discuss removal options and how we can help you secure your network.

Computer Tip of the Day: Reducing the Risk of Malware

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Reducing the Risk of Malware

Believe it or not, most malware incidents that happen in the workplace are very unpredictable. Because you never know when they’re going to happen, it’s always important to be prepared.

For example, what if there was an unexpected power outage in your office, or what if you carelessly deleted an important file? If none of your files or data were backed up, there could be serious consequences.

With that said, another common (and rather unpredictable) incident in the workplace involves malware. Whether it’s found on suspicious websites or a supposedly “harmless” looking email, you always need to be cautious.

There are plenty of ways to avoid becoming susceptible to malware. However, it’s especially important that you know what emails to look for. Many of these viruses show up as attachments in messages. The hacker tricks you into clicking on it, and once you do so, your device becomes infected.

What are some things to look for in these emails that indicate it’s not from a trustworthy source?

First of all, does the message itself contain bad grammar or stilted phrasing? If so, then it might not be from someone you trust. However, even if the message does appear to be from someone you trust, take caution anyway.

Does the tone of the message sound robotic? From what you know of this coworker, employee, or business, do they normally use a similar tone in their emails? If not, then more than likely, the message isn’t from them. When you’re still unsure, seek out the person/business and ask, or simply send a reply email and see if you get a response. If it’s malware, chances are you wont.

For protection from malware, 24/7 it support and managed services, contact us today at Bluwater Technologies. We look forward to hearing from you.

Computer Tip of the Day: Is Your Computer Hacked?

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Having a hacked computer can be a business’ worst nightmare. When that does happen, it’s important to take actions as soon as possible. Early detection can ultimately save your money, identity, and time. In this computer tip of the day, we we show you signs to look for if you suspect your network’s security has been compromised.

Strange Hacked programs

If you see unfamiliar software suddenly appearing on your computer, it is best to be wary. Chances are, you probably installed these unknowingly when you tried to set up another program. Even if they came with legitimate programs, they could still be dangerous to have around.

Fake antivirus messages

It is very common for hackers to pop up messages on your computer to announce that you suddenly have viruses. Their goal is to convince you to buy their security software, at which point your credit card and personal information will be stolen. Any time you spot warnings that are not from your trusted antivirus programs, take precautions immediately.

Hacked Cursor movement

Problems in your mouse can cause the screen cursor to move around randomly, which should not be alarming. However, if you notice your cursor performing actions without your control (such as clicking on and successfully opening programs), it is likely that someone else is using the computer. Hackers typically try to do this as sneakily as possible and at times when you are likely not there, such as in the middle of the night. This makes it easier for them to then break into other computers in the network and steal sensitive information.

Random toolbars

As with programs being installed on your computer, you probably agreed to installation of strange toolbars for your browser as you set up another software. Besides toolbars, hackers can make other changes to your browser such as setting a new homepage or default search engine. Be wary if you suddenly see your browser being configured without your knowledge.

Please contact us for more information on security and what to do when your network is hacked.