HCS Computers

The latest Firefox update corrects three critical security flaws, including one that allows others to execute code on your computer automatically. If you are using Firefox, make sure it is the latest version.

Jim's Tech Tips: Security Alert: Update Firefox Now

A funny video showing kids trying to use an old computer. How many remember when computers were like this? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PF7EpEnglgk

KIDS REACT TO OLD COMPUTERS Thanks to our friends at "Halt and Catch Fire"! Check it out! http://www.amctv.com/shows/halt-and-catch-fire Premieres June 1st, Sundays 10/9c on AMC Old Com...

If you have an Android phone, it may be vulnerable to the Heartbleed bug. Lookout Mobile Security has developed an app that will tell you if your device is affected and if software using the bug is enabled. Unfortunately, there is not much that you can do if you are vulnerable except to be very careful about what you have on your phone. Google has already released a heartbleed patch, but it is up to manufacturers to develop it for their phones and send it to your device. You can access the app here: http://goo.gl/reJ8yk or by searching for Heartbleed Detector in Google Play.

Have you ever installed a program only to find that it also installed other software (toolbars, desktop icons, etc.) that you don't want? Now, there's a program that will keep those unwanted items off of your computer: Unchecky. Unchecky will automatically uncheck all those boxes and alert you if you are about to install a program you don't want. (Note: It is not perfect, so you should still read what you are installing before continuing!) To download it, simply go to unchecky.com, and click on the big, orange download button.

Two security alerts for you today:

First, some of you may have heard of the CryptoLocker ransomware. This will encrypt all your filed and demand that you pay to get them back. While anti virus programs may be able to get rid of the bad code, they cannot decrypt your files. Now is a good time to make sure you have an up to date backup your important files or to look at investing in an online backup service.

Next, there is a flaw in the graphics processing systems of Windows and Office that will allow the download of malicious code through a TIFF image. The image could be sent as an attachment or placed on a website. Microsoft Fix It has a workaround that will disable TIFF images until a security patch is released. You can complete it by going here: https://support.microsoft.com/kb/2896666 and clicking on the Enable This Fix It button. Since TIFF images are not used much anymore, you will likely be unaffected by disabling them.