Volume 10, February 2013 | Systems & Strategies

In the News – Disable Java
The department of Homeland Security has strongly suggested that you disable Java in your internet browsers temporarily. There is a security flaw being exploited that could potentially lead to your computer being infected by malware. Java needs to be disabled in each individual browser that you user. Use the following links to disable Java in the browsers that you use: Internet Explorer Google Chrome Safari On an iPad or iPhone, go to Settings – Safari -JavaScript – change to “Off”.
Windows XP – Discontinued soon!
Microsoft will officially stop supporting the Windows XP operating system in April, 2014. This means there will be no security updates or patches. If your computer supports the requirements, you might consider upgrading to Windows 7. iPad Apps
WeightTraining.com– cost: Free – In honor of the most popular New Year’s Resolution! Log workouts, track fitness stats, follow professional workout plans (PRO only), search the comprehensive exercise library, watch step-by-step how to videos, and have fun competing against yourself and others. *Slice– cost: free -A great free app that sends you a message when an item you have ordered online has shipped and then when it gets delivered. You won’t have to worry about whether or not that package is at the front door when you get home! Instapaper* – cost: free – Reading a long article on your computer is not an enjoyable experience. That’s where Instapaper comes in. Sign up for an Instapaper account and when you come across a long article on your computer, you can “Instapaper it” with a bookmarklet that you install. Then you can log in to that same account through the iPad app and waiting there will be the article in an easy to read format.

Tip of the month

Preventing malware attacks on social networking sites

The Butterfly botnet that invaded Facebook this year infected over 11 million pcs and made over $850 million. Fortunately it was eventually shut down and arrests were made. Infections could be spread thanks to a message going out from a “friend” with a link to click on. Trusting that friend can greatly hard your computer. There are 3 simple things you can do to keep your computer and personal data safe.

1. Make sure you know your “friends”. Use discrimination in choosing your social network contacts. This will help minimize your exposure to threats.

2. Use caution! Just as you’ve become guarded about opening e-mails from suspicious senders, you need to use the same common sense with social networking. Do not open attachments or follow links in messages unless you know what it is. A message to you out of the blue and lacking context should immediately raise some red flags.

3. Protect your computer. Make sure you have up to date anti-virus software running. Be sure to update your Windows operating system as well as any other legitimate software that offers security patches or updates.

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