How To get Online Protection

Online Protection Mantra

Internet, which was invented to simplify lives of people with its instant approach and quick service delivery, now seems to be troubling them. The internet savvy users, venturing into cyberspace, on a lookout for information and prompt services, are now whining about the thriving security threats.

With threats thronging out in the World Wide Web and rising dependence on internet to fulfill the info needs, it gets almost indispensable for a user to acquire a protection mechanism which minimizes risks and capitalizes individual efforts. Let’s go through some quick conducts to check such risks online:

1.      Get Security Software

A simple security program can protect your computer from viruses, malware, and spywares. You don’t have to shell out your money for better security. Free antivirus software like Avira Free Antivirus or AVG Anti-Virus may just work fine for your computer. Experts recommend procuring a number of free cyber-protection tools instead of getting just one. Also, get a firewall.

2.      Smart passwords

Use passwords that are difficult for cyber-criminals to guess. Use lengthy passwords with combination of symbols and numbers for different accounts. Change your passwords more often. Even the software giant Microsoft recommends changing passwords every three months.

3.      Get cagey of WiFi

Using Public Wi-Fi is convenient, but it’s not certainly the safest. Accessing work email, bank accounts or your social accounts may put your privacy under question, while using free Wi-Fi. Enhance your security by logging into secure sites with web addresses starting with “https”.

4.      Be careful while clicking:

Spam emails can subterfuge as mails from your colleagues or businesses. Don’t click on suspicious links in spam emails as they could be a ‘phishing attack’. Type the website address in a separate browser window in case you wish to check the account. Also do not respond to emails promising to send free gifts won by you, seeking your personal information like Address, Bank Account no., passwords, etc.

5.      Evaluate the risks

Know how your information is being used while surfing online. Learn how the World Wide Web tracks you and use the data. Is your current geographical location visible on your Social Networking accounts? Look for steps to hide it.

6.      Remove your trails

Browsing privately gives user the peace of mind that his information is safe. Put your web browser in ‘Private Mode’. Doing so clears the history and cookies automatically. But the websites visited by you may still know your identity. Using updated versions of search engines like Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome, can further restrict the entry of spywares and malwares into your computer systems.

7.      Intellectual Thinking

Understand the threats.  Don’t click and download frantically. Keep your phones password-protected. Don’t reveal your full name, date of birth, family members’ maiden names, Social Security number and other private information on social networking sites.

These pointers can help computer users build the first protective layer in protecting themselves from cybercrime. But for a complete security shield, it gets mandatory for a user to get professional help from experts. And what better than getting Technical expertise online. A number of premier organizations like PCCare247, that ranks high in the Computer Support arena, provide 24×7 technical support services to millions of computer users worldwide. Get round-the-clock tech support by certified experts at reasonable prices with PCCare247.

Flashback Malware Persistently Haunting Mac Users

Flashback Malware infects Mac Computers

The recently discovered Flashback Malware which is believed to be the biggest Mac malware threat till date gives Apple a tough time. Flashback malware that was found infecting about 600,000 Mac computers worldwide, mostly in the US and Canada, is still believed to be bullying the Mac users.

The Malware

There are reportedly 14 different variations of the Flashback malware. The first 13 versions have been identified as Trojan horses. The most recent version of malicious software, listed as Malware.OSX.Flashback.N by Intego, and .K, exploits a security flaw in Java to install itself on user’s hard drive after visiting infected websites, thereby infecting the Mac machines. Designed to steal private information such as usernames and passwords, Flashback is causing restlessness among the Mac users, raising the question of security.

 

Not Dead Yet

Despite the removal tool released by Apple, the malware continues to exist in about 140,000 Mac machines. Although there has been drop from 600,000 infected machines that were reported earlier this month, the decline is not as good as was expected. According to the Symantec Officials, the rate of removal is slowing. Some believe that the tool is not good enough to remove the malware from the Mac computers. Although a possibility of unawareness of the Mac users about the Malware infection could not be ruled out.

 

Detecting Flashback

Flashback can be detected by observing the characteristics of the IP address behaving like a Flashback botnet. Flashback installs bot malware onto the Mac machine connecting it to the overall Flashback botnet. The Flashback botnet uses a set group of IP destination addresses. If the computer regularly connects to one or all of those IP addresses, the machine is infected.

Although Flashback malware, that is reported to be one of the worst Mac attacks in decades, has stained Apple’s image of invulnerability. Keeping this issue in perspective, it has only affected a tiny percentage of all Mac computers used worldwide.

 

The Fix

Apple released a Flashback malware removal tool recently for OS X Lion users without Java installed in their systems. Currently, Apple doesn’t offer a similar stand-alone tool for earlier versions of the Operating System.

A number of other third party companies like PCCare247 are offering unending Macintosh Support to the Mac users helping them detect and remove the malware from their systems. Not only removal, the organization ensures continuous Tech Support services for your Mac computers.

PCCare247 Pitches In With All New Macintosh Support to Redeem Mac Users

April 02, 2012: PCCare247, a vogue pacer in online tech support, has got another feather in its cap in the form of Macintosh Support. The premier Macintosh support dished out by the organization earn its brownie points by incorporating separate service packages for all of Mac entities including iMac, MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, Mac Pro, Mac Mini and whole range of Mac OS versions, right from Jaguar to OS X lion. Whether its installation related blues, or Wi-Fi, blue tooth device maladies or it’s about getting rid of operating system compatibility issues, the thoroughgoing support package has it all to save Mac users from petite to mammoth quandaries disconcerting them from long time.

PCCare247 includes Apple Mac Support to its Portfolio of Online Technical Support Services

Later announcing about this development, one of the Managing Directors of PCCare247 said, “After receiving so many requests from across the world for technical assistance of Mac devices, today we are very happy that we have taken a step further to widen the horizon of our services with offering an unparalleled Macintosh support, which aims to deliver suave functioning of Mac systems. And the best of PCCare247 you have to just call on toll free number ‘1-855-877-5848’ to register your matter concerned, and then the customer care executive takes it forward to the team of certified technicians, after that they discuss the matter meticulously to carry out a proper line of action to resolve a particular issue in no time.”

PCCare247 works on the basis of delivering its customers the best of services at reasonable rates among other players in the field of online technical support. Today, PCCare247 is proud and privileged to have served millions of customer across world and pledges to keep this tempo intact by serving cutting-edge Macintosh Support.

About PCCare247: PCCare247 is a proverbial agnomen in doling out online technical support for computer and peripherals. Proffering most immaculate and all-encompassing service portfolios in computer tech support, PCCare247 has now joined the bandwagon of those few, who provide Macintosh Support.

For further details you can log on to http://www.pccare247.com/macintosh-support.html

Or alternatively, get in touch with the company at:

India
Office No. 3, 6th Floor,
DLF Cyber City, Building No. 14B,
Gurgaon, Haryana – India
Phone: +91-124-4655200
Fax: +91-124-4655299
E-mail: contact@pccare247.com

USA
575, Lexington Avenue
4th Floor New York,
NY 10022
Phone: +1-888-291-2867
Fax: +1-516-908-4908
E-mail: contact@pccare247.com

PCCare247 – A frontrunner in IT Technical Support arena

PCCare247 - Online Tech Support Partner

PCCare247 Solutions Pvt. Ltd., well known as PCCare247 has emerged as a front-runner in the Online Computer Support turf. As the name suggests, PCCare247 cares for your Computer and its peripherals with unmatched round-the-clock (24×7) services. PCCare247 has been providing IT Technical Support services for all brands of Desktops, Laptops, Printers and others peripherals. All your issues concerning Antivirus, Browser, Email, Network, Operating systems, etc. are resolved by PCCare247 Certified Technicians with a touch of excellence.

PCCare247 – Among Top Ten Online Technical Support Providers

PCCare247 which is amongst the Top Ten Online Technical Support Services providers in the world delivers expert Computer Support services with distinction. With a comprehensive service package including Virus Removal, Malware Removal, Spyware Removal, setup and installation of Printers and Routers, Network Support, Operating System support, Email Support, X-Box support, and many more; PCCare247 surpasses all its competitors.

PCCare247 now supporting Mac Products

PCCare247 - Now gives Apple Mac Support too

PCCare247, which always had a top notch in providing Technical Support for all major brands like HP, Dell, Acer, Sony Vaio, Lenovo, Compaq, Toshiba, Samsung, Asus, Samsung, etc., is now all set to fix even your Mac Computers. PCCare247 now announces its arrival in Mac Support arena providing unparalleled support for your Mac products. Macintosh, a well-known name in the Computer domain, is famous for its superlative technology and user friendly approach. But even with this groovy brand, technical snags are bound to occur, as where technology is involved, technical glitches become inevitable.  After shelling out huge amounts on purchasing this elite brand of computer, getting a reliable support becomes almost mandatory. At this point, PCCare247 turns out to be a savior.

PCCare247 – A one-stop destination for all your Computer woes

Apart from other leading brands, PCCare247 experts also offer unswerving Macintosh Support for all your Mac products. The Mac Online support service package of PCCare247 includes services like Apple iWork Support, Apple Safari support, Mac Mini Support, Macbook Pro Support, Macbook Air Support, Mac Email Support, Mac OS X Support, Mac Virus Removal, Mac Software Support, and many more. Your Mac “Online” Support provider – PCCare247 is at your service 24×7, with an easy remote assistance feature, resolving all your Mac issues online.

PCCare247 Certified professionals have been giving their unsurpassed Technical support for all major brands with expertise guaranteeing a pleasant computing experience to millions of its customers across the globe for a long time now. A reliable and affordable Online Tech Support company, PCCare247 promises to provide the best technical assistance for your computer, round-the-clock.

Outsourcing Computer Security – A Smarter Choice

Outsourcing Computer Security Services - A Wise decision

The technologically advanced world with internet as its major information provider has been facing Computer Security issues from time to time. Perpetual threats from cybercriminals have made businesses and home computer users to reassess their Computer protection decisions. Website hacking to attack innocent visitors; penetrating into databanks to pilfer customer information and trade secrets; and entering PCs to steal confidential financial information; cyber crooks are relentlessly targeting millions worldwide. Hence, putting in place a robust Computer security system becomes an indispensable task of every business as well as an individual.

But due to the huge costs involved in acquiring an in-house IT security team, well equipped with security tools, small businesses and home users compromise with their PC security endangering their privacy. Keeping these factors in mind, a large number of small firms and hapless PC users are outsourcing the computer security service providers. These service providers offer advanced technologies and security experts at affordable prices, as the burden of the cost is spread across many clients.

Whether to choose them or not??

Taking services from an outside firm, generally, makes Managers edgy as they are required to sanction them complete access to their company systems. But obtaining security services from such firms can help small and medium sized firms to reduce their IT costs as well as get expert solution to all the security issues.

The businesses can obtain services as per their requirement than incurring ongoing costs of full-time staff and instruments.  So instead of focusing on the security of their systems, firms can now pay full attention to their actual business processes.

Choosing the reliable one…

After one decides to outsource its computer security services, the question of selecting the most reliable organization ascends. One would probably select such an organization that can meet all the basic security needs including computer security, network security, email filtering for spams, protection against malwares and spywares, and much more.

Checking for legitimacy and the extent of services offered by the company becomes a mandatory task for any business. Among a huge number of organizations offering computer security services, PCCare247 turns out to be a front-runner in providing all inclusive services to small, medium & large businesses as well as home PC users. With its round-the-clock online technical support services by Certified Technicians, PCCare247 ensures complete security of computers giving users freedom of all the technical distresses.

Fend off cybercriminals with an unswerving Computer support services by PCCare247 at reasonable prices.

Computer Security Tips

Computer Security

Mounting information needs and the pervasive use of computer networks, especially internet, to meet these requirements has made computers vulnerable to security threats stealing user’s privacy.

Safeguarding oneself from such security threats and protecting their private data like bank details, email account, photos, videos, etc. from being leaked to the world, users must take some precautionary steps.

Precautionary Steps

Email Security

• Remove unfamiliar Emails: Delete email attachments from unknown people without opening them as they may contain malwares or virus eyeing confidential information on your computer. Also, beware of strange links or attachments given in Instant Messaging (IM) programs as they may have malicious codes attached.
• Use smart passwords: Use strong passwords with a minimum of eight characters with a mix of special symbols, numbers and letters. Use different passwords for different accounts.

Secure your Computer

• Enable Firewall: Install firewalls on computers as they keep unauthorized programs from attacking the computer systems even if they have access to your network.
• Use updated Antivirus software: Use a trusted antivirus program with regular updates, as an outdated antivirus program may not protect you from newer threats developed by hackers.
• Use anti-spyware/Anti-malware protection: Install a trusted anti-spyware and anti-malware program. Make sure you keep these programs updated.

Browser Security

Select browsers wisely. Be it Microsoft Internet Explorer, Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox, each browser offer distinctive features with different security settings. Check your Browser Security and Privacy settings periodically, matching your internet activities and usage level.

Use Encryption

If you store your personal data on a laptop or other portables devices, use encryption software. Encrypting the devices helps in protecting the data stored in the device in case it is stolen or lost.

Online Privacy

• Read Privacy Policies: Make sure you read the privacy policies of websites you are visiting before disclosing any personal information, to ensure security of the data supplied.
• Avoid downloading files from insecure websites: Download files like wallpapers, screensavers, games, or other programs from secure websites only. Always download files to the Downloads folder and make sure you scan the folder before running them.
• Social networking safety: Check and disable the GPS locator of your mobile device to display your location on social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter, Orkut, Stumbleupon, etc. while uploading pictures or videos, if you don’t want the world to know your current location.
• Shop online safely: While submitting purchase information, check for the lock icon on the browser’s status bar that indicates secure submission of data. Also, be sure that “https” appears in the browser address bar before making an online purchase as this indicates the site being secure.

A defenseless computer system without any protective shield is more likely to get infected by viruses and hackers than a computer with some defending mechanism. So, adopting these precautionary steps can dodge the threats mongering the cyber world and protect your computer falling prey to threats unarmed.

Despite taking these precautionary measures, your computer may fall prey to such threats making your computing experience an annoying one. To ensure complete security of your computer system, comprehensive computer technical support services from eminent organizations like PCCare247 must be sought. PCCare247 provides comprehensive Computer support services including Virus Removal, Malware Removal, Spyware Removal, Windows OS Support, Printer Help, Network Support, Browser support and many more.

PCCare247 which has been a major player in providing Computer Support services globally is now offering extensive Mac support services for your Apple products too. Free yourself of all your computer worries by selecting PCCare247 as your computer service provider.

Network Security – A mandate

Is your Wi-Fi network secure?

The ever increasing needs for information and services has made the use of Internet practically unavoidable. Recognizing the importance of internet in fulfilling these needs, further enhancement in technology is being done regularly to provide easy internet access to users across the globe.

Wireless networking is one such technology that helps users to stay connected with the world through internet wirelessly. Also known as Wi-Fi, it proves out to be a convenient way to wirelessly access internet permitting electronic devices to wirelessly exchange data over a computer network.

But with the ease and convenience of cable free network availability over a wide area, comes the risk of illegitimate access of the network by cyber hooligans. The unlawful sharing of a network with such cyber-thugs can put users’ privacy under question, revealing private information like passwords, bank account details, photos, videos, etc.

Understanding the security threats hovering over the wireless network, securing it with suitable defense mechanism becomes an essential task of every internet-savvy user.

 

Network Pilferage

The action of tracing and exploiting security-exposed wireless LANs is known as war driving. With an inadequately protected Wi-Fi network, unauthorized users may gain access to network to get free internet or may be to accomplish their nefarious goals.

In an urge to obtain quick and easy access to internet, users tend to accept default settings of the network, leaving it vulnerable to fraud, abuse and even cyber-crime. An open network may invite cyber hooligans to distribute child pornographic content; acquire personal information; or build attacks on other computers/networks.

Network Security Steps

But with the following precautionary measures at user’s end, such network security threats may be restrained.

Router Manual: Every router offers different features in different locations which must be studied carefully before use.

Change Default Passwords: The default usernames and passwords of the router must be changed immediately.

Turn on Encryption: As most routers are compatible with an inbuilt data encryption options like WEP, WPA and WPA2, WPA2 encryption must be used for better security of the network.

Change Default SSID: SSID is the name of the network. Hackers can easily crack network security once they know the brand of the router as mentioned in the default SSID by entering default usernames and passwords of that particular brand. Also, avoid using personal information like name, address, etc. as it allows criminals in the vicinity to locate you.

Turn On Mac Address Filtering:  Every network device (router, wireless card, network card, etc.) consists of a Mac address, a number similar to 06:R5:J8:23:8M:B4 which identifies your network device.  Mac filtering allows only the Mac addresses logged in the router to access the network restricting invaders.

Turn off Broadcasting SSID: Turning off the broadcasting of SSID will make it difficult for a criminal to identify and attack networks.

Assign and Filter IP Addresses for Devices: Setting a static IP address for all devices connecting wirelessly allows the router to further filter the devices that are allowed to use the network.

Firmware upgradation: Firmware upgrades fixes bugs, near susceptibilities and offer new features and security updates for routers.

Update Operating System: Be it Windows, Linux or Mac, operating systems must be updated as it covers the security holes of the computer.

Use Firewalls: Enable firewalls on computers as they keep intruders from invading the computer systems even if they have access to your network.

Use updated antivirus: Use a reliable and updated antivirus program; and scan the hard drives regularly.

Reduce Signal Range: Place routers in the center of your home for a better coverage for home and less spillage of signals outside. Also, some routers allow you to reduce the signal strength so as to cover a limited area.

Turn off Routers: Turn off routers when you leave the home for extended periods.

Though following these steps will not guarantee 100% protection, but these will surely build a strong protective layer for your network.  For a hassle free network security support and matchless computer support services, help from premier organizations like PCCare247 could be sought that ensures service delivery round-the-clock. PCCare247 guarantees unparalleled Online Technical support services at reasonable price for users across the globe.

Viruses targeting children through Gaming Sites

Children playing Games online - An easy target for Hackers

Hackers in urge to satisfy their greedy needs are adopting numerous dishonest methods to extract private information from user’s computers. With every step towards technological advancement, cyber hooligans are bringing in new-fangled ways to crack users’ computer security. This time Hackers target children who in an impulse for entertainment visit numerous cartoon gaming sites. Such sites disguised as innocent looking gaming destination, end up installing malwares into their parents’ computer, thereby stealing vital information.

A Sneak-in Game plan of Hackers

Innocent kids unaware of the deceitful techniques of such fraudsters, tend to click on suspicious links culminating the security gears of the computer, enabling them to access private data of their parents.

According to recent reports, various websites offering free games, misguides users to get ‘driveby downloads’ resulting in infection of computer with the deadly Trojan virus, which further directs their PC to other infectious sites.

With children hopping impulsively between different sites makes them vulnerable to more serious virus attacks than the adults.

An Antidote

Although it is difficult to identify the illegitimate websites by just viewing it, users can protect their privacy with some precautionary steps.

• Educating children on the dangers posed by such malicious websites and taming their online gaming activities, becomes the first step of the cautionary stride.
• User must ensure that the browser used is up-to-date with its security features like warnings activated.
• Installation of a reliable Anti-virus program that notifies user of a website being infected and blocking such threats to enter the computer.

Despite using all such measures, users tend to fall prey to the cyber thugs, sneaking into their computer on a look-out for confidential information. Users should take professional help from elite organizations assuring comprehensive security of their PC from such malicious elements and waning users computer distresses.

PCCare247 a forerunner in providing Online Technical Support to computer users worldwide, offer 24×7 Computer Support to all brands of desktops and laptops, assuring complete security to computer users. PCCare247 promises to provide unsurpassed Tech help and round-the-clock IT Technical support services for all your computer related issues.

Good Browsing habits of an Ideal netizen

Smart browsing ways

Getting on the information highway is fun, an expression used by internet “noobs’’ to the hilt. But then in actual parlance it is rather the opposite because being a newbie to world of internet means a direct exposure to security threats, virus, malware and so what not. That is why at PCCare247 we thought why not share with you good browsing habits and the tools which turn them into something good. So, without any further adieu here are the good browsing habits.

• Selecting a Browser wisely

A browser as an application provides a safe platform for accessing websites. Be it Microsoft Internet Explorer, Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox all of them have their own set of unique features. And if one was to heed the advice of computer support professionals at PCCare247, Google Chrome’s interface is not only highly effective, safe and light at the same time. An option considered as perfect for new PC users.

• Trustworthy Search Engine

Search Engines are vital components of the World Wide Web. And as it goes without saying, not all Search Engines are considered to be safe. A case in point where and one would need to select a Search Engine judiciously. So, starting in the order of the safety we would recommend you would select one that ends up meeting your requirements. Well, then going ahead and starting in a chronological order with Google, Bing, Yahoo, DuckDuckGo and Ask.com.

• Software Downloads

Go on and take advice of Browser Support and Technical Support professionals seriously. Any recommendation from their side to refrain from activities such as free download of software applications, serials and cracks needs to be paid attention.

• Inculcate habits of a good netizen

You can always end up acting as a role model for fellow netizens. To do this just try and be a good reader and avoid an activity like trolling that would simply end up annoying netizens more than making them happy.

• Don’t overdo things

Something in excess is always bad. So, while paying heed to the advice of Browser Support professionals, we would recommend you to not to do anything in excess. Thus, putting things back in perspective one should try and take a break from browsing every now and then.  A good way to give those eyes, neck and hands the much needed rest.

The Internet contains a vast array of information not to be found in any other medium. So, it also ends up being a place where good browsing habits end up promoting and fostering an atmosphere of unity amongst fellow netizens. Considered as an Ideology in which PCCare247 and its elite brand of techies believe in big time.     

Computer Support streaming towards newer dimensions

Online Computer Support

Ever since computers have witnessed the light of day, technology has been very much involved in shaping the varied aspects of the progressive human society. With this infiltration, although life has seen some of the most welcoming transformations, but another grimmer trend has also surfaced and that is of a shooting graph of technical issues. Designated as a wonder machine, computers may play a mess when they get plagued by a myriad of technical issues. And as the case always, when this happens, your work encounters a sudden setback and you are on crossroads, desperately looking out to grab a piece of advice or assistance for your ailing companion.

Onsite v/s Online Computer Support

Gone the days of onsite support, when it’s all about either taking your computer for work-shopping or to invite strangers at your home to get poured by advice, advice and some more advice!!! With changing times, getting computer help is no more a harassing affair. It’s now all about a phone call and that’s fairly enough to banish the lines of worry from your grim face.

Online computer support has firmly gained an all-time favorite reputation among millions of hapless PC users across the globe, which have been struggling to get over with now and then blues of their machine. It’s more than a piece of advice as certified technicians can now remotely gain access of your system (off course with your permission) to detect and nail down the root cause of your PC’s infirmity.  And, at the same time you can grab a cup of coffee to relax and see your computer being worked upon in front of your eyes!

As easy as snapping fingers, a reliable tech support from a genuine technical support provider can give you a breather from issues derailing the work performance of your laptops, desktops, printers, peripherals, browsers, emails and many more. Above all, it’s no more taking fuzz out of your head when your system gets crippled with a virus attack, as online tech support gives you a sure shot instant respite from virus and other malware related problems.

Whom to trust

While Googling through net, you may encounter several online tech support providers, which go on boasting of their achievements.  It’s really puzzling to put your cursor on one of these as everyone can be seen making skyrocketing claims. But PCCare247 is all together different, its approach is not to waste efforts in making unfeasible claims but to go and grab the customers’ gratification. Kick-starting a new era in the domain of computer tech support, PCCare247 has focused sternly on carving out a special niche in the heart of its customers. Whether it’s about virus removal, spyware removal, malware removal or it’s about antivirus support, desktop support, laptop support, printer support, browser support or about many more services, PCCare247 has come to lie as an undeniable leader in doling out quality services to its customers.