Brian Gongol
Urgent this week:
- Steer clear of file-sharing networks: A particularly bad Trojan horse is wrecking lots of Japanese computers right now, and the Internet doesn't respect international borders.
- Firefox users need to get an update that was released on Friday
- Change the password on your wireless router if you're still using the factory default
- If you haven't installed surge suppressors on all of your computers, don't wait another minute. It should be your highest computing priority before the spring storm season arrives.
- 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:
- If there's just one thing to know about online investing, it's that only victims take the advice of stock spammers:
But clearly, someone's responding to these things, so we have to remind you: Never, ever, ever take action based on a stock "tip" you receive via e-mail. These are almost always "pump and dump" scams, and the groups who benefit most from "pump and dump" operations are organized-crime syndicates and terrorists. - For the record: 147 spam messages received in two hours this Friday, for a weekly spam index of 12,348 -- a new record high:
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.