Brian Gongol
Urgent this week:
- If you still haven't switched over to using a limited-access account on your computer for most web browsing, perhaps the fact that a very old security hole remains unpatched will be incentive to do so.
- Microsoft users should make sure they got this week's Windows update.
- Take care not to destroy your computer with static electricity. Wear rubber-soled shoes (if possible) when using your computer, try to discharge static before touching the machine, and isolate your CPU from the ground if at all possible.
Important to do every week:
- Run a backup of your important computer files and store it in a safe location.
- Update your anti-spyware software and run it. If you need free anti-spyware software, download Spybot Search and Destroy.
- Update your anti-virus software and run it. If you need free anti-virus software, download AVG Anti-Virus.
Other recommended security measures:
- Set up a limited-access user account on your computer and use it for most purposes. Only use administrator mode when installing and uninstalling programs.
- Use Firefox, Opera, Safari, or another web browser other than Internet Explorer. They're easy to install.
Online crook of the week:
- The following message made it past the spam filters this week:
E-mail greeting cards in general may simply be more trouble than they're worth. Unless you know who sent it, don't open it -- and never, ever open up an executable file (the name usually ends in ".exe") you receive via e-mail. - For the record: 1953 spam messages received on Saturday and Sunday combined, for a weekly spam index of 6836.
Other helpful links:
- Listen to the WHO Radio Wise Guys Saturdays from 12:00 to 2:00 Central via streaming audio or on 1040 AM.
- Get a professional website for under $500 at NorthernRepublic.com.