INSIDE THIS ISSUE Malware Warning Microsoft Reports On Fake Windows Support Calls There's Lots To "Like" About Us On Facebook Two To View A Couple Of Amazing Videos You Don't Want To Miss This Month's FAQ Do Mac Users Need To Worry About Viruses? Sites Of The Month Great Sites To Check Out In August Short Tutorial Creating An Account On Twitter |
Hello West Central Internet Subscribers Safety and security are always on our minds and the month of August is no exception. For example, you may be concerned with keeping kids safe at the pool now or while walking to school soon. As far as security goes, we share important information on two issues—a malware warning from Microsoft about fake Windows support calls as well as a malware threat to Mac users. And on the topic of safety, don't miss the beautiful seatbelt advocacy commercial in Two to View. Also in this issue, you'll find summer-savvy sites to help you make the most of August plus easy instructions on how to get started on Twitter. The goal of each of our eNewsletters is to keep our subscribers informed regarding their Internet connection and to improve their Internet experience. We think you'll find this information interesting. To see what's inside this issue, simply scroll down the eNewsletter or click on the links within the index to the left. Thanks for reading! - West Central Internet Services Team |
Malware Warning – Microsoft Reports On Fake Windows Support Calls
Beware! Computer scams don't just happen on computers. A recent study commissioned by Microsoft describes how scammers are now calling people on the phone and tricking them into installing computer software designed to steal money, identities, and passwords.
Here's how it works: The scammer calls and, after sharing their "credentials," tells the victim that his/her computer is at risk. The scammer directs the victim to view a harmless error report that the scammer claims shows how the victim's computer has been compromised. The scammer then asks for a credit card number for the victim to "purchase" software that will solve the "problem." Or they direct the victim to install software that places a virus on the victim's computer, enabling the scammer to gain access to critical information. Microsoft recommends these do's and don'ts to help prevent becoming a victim: DO
There's Lots To "Like" About Us On Facebook
When you're on Facebook, we encourage you to visit the West Central Telephone page and "Like" us. By doing so, you'll be the first to know about new products and services. You'll also be able to take advantage of special promotions and events.
Not on Facebook yet? Give it a try. Facebook can help you more easily stay in touch with family and friends, share photos, get support when life is a challenge, celebrate big accomplishments, sell or swap items, and get advice before making major purchases. Go to www.facebook.com to get started.
Two To View – A Couple Of Amazing Videos You Don't Want To Miss
This Month's FAQ – Do Mac Users Need To Worry About Viruses?
Let's start with the big picture. Worldwide, about 90 percent of the computer market is comprised of PC users with about 10 percent being Mac users. Cybercriminals are well aware of these statistics and tend to focus their virus efforts on the "bigger slice of the pie." So traditionally, Macs have been known to experience fewer viruses.
However, Mac security has been in the news again lately due to the MacDefender malware and its variants. MacDefender masquerades as antivirus software, showing a webpage that looks like a virus detection screen, and then prompting the user to complete the install process. If completed, the malware will ask for credit card information to eliminate nonexistent viruses. Do Mac users need to worry about viruses? The short answer is yes. No computer is completely immune from threats and Apple recommends that Mac users keep antivirus software updated and take precautions when downloading files, opening email attachments, etc. If you're in the 90 percent with a PC, you should be practicing these security measures as well.
Sites Of The Month – Great Sites To Check Out In August
Travel Fare Tracking
yapta.com – If you're looking for the best prices on travel, visit this site to help you track them. You can enter information about the flight, hotel, or car you're looking for and then have the site send you email updates when the price goes down. You can also use the site to get a refund from the airline if a flight price drops after you book it. Donate And Learn freerice.com – This site allows you to use your smarts and help people at the same time. Answer quiz questions on a variety of topics and for every answer you get right, the site donates rice to those in need in places like Cambodia and Africa. This is a nonprofit organization, so you can also donate money or read their blog to find out more about how they're making a difference. Summer Salad Recipes momswhothink.com – Warm August weather is a great time for cool salads. Here you'll find recipes for all kinds of salads including classics like macaroni and potato; desserts like Jell-O and fruit; and hearty like shrimp, chicken, and taco. Explore the rest of the site to find useful articles on health, parenting, nutrition, and more topics of interest to moms and others who care for kids. Video Education khanacademy.org – Before they start the new school year, do your kids need a refresher on some of what they learned last year? This free and comprehensive e-learning site has videos on hundreds of topics to choose from. Subjects include math, science, history, and finance. Even if your kids are all caught up, you might consider using the site yourself. Best Months To Buy freeshipping.org – From kitchen appliances to winter coats to champagne, you can spend less by knowing the right time to buy. For example, August is traditionally a great time to purchase things like computers, lawn mowers, and swimsuits. But every month has its bargains. Before your next major purchase, check this guide to figure out the best time to buy.
Short Tutorial – Creating An Account On Twitter
According to Twitter, 200 million tweets are now posted daily, compared with 65 million a day just one year ago. If you aren't currently on Twitter but are ready to "test your wings," you'll be happy to know that it's easy to sign up and get started. Simply follow these instructions:
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Thanks for your business! Best regards The WCTA Communications Team Internet Specialists WCTA Sebeka 308 Frontage Road Box 304 Sebeka, MN 56477 1-218-837-5151 or toll free at 1-800-945-2163 Trademarks: All brand names and product names used in this eNewsletter are trade names, service marks, trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. |