Best Antivirus for Microsoft Windows 8

With Microsoft Windows 8.1 just around the corner, we’ll be updating our software, and trying out the new version of  Microsoft Windows 8.1 platform.  We should make sure our antivirus is also up-to-date.  Having an antivirus on your computer is very important with all the phishing and malware lurking in cyber land.  Here is a list of some great antivirus’ for your Windows 8.

1. Bit Defender Antivirus Plus 2013

The Bit Defender Antivirus Plus 2013, not only gets rid of the spyware, malware, and viruses but saves your infected computer files.  Bit Defender cures your files from the antivirus so you don’t have to delete them from your computer.

• Improves performance and speed
• Stores sensitive credentials, access your most visited emails, websites, and apps
• Autopilot makes security decisions for you, allowing you to still use your PC
• 24/7 credit monitoring
• Social network protection
• Blocks websites that support scams and phishing
• Immunizes Flash Drives from viruses when connected to your PC

2.  Microsoft Security Essentials

Microsoft Security Essentials is a free download for your home or small business.  Your PC must run on Windows to install.  It is user friendly and has an easy interface to navigate through.

• Easily detects malware
• Fast scanning speed
• Rootkit Removal
• Automatic updates

3.  AVG Free 2013

This free antivirus can be found on the Internet.  Keep your computer data safe from viruses and hackers, AVG is a great option.  The viruses and spyware slowing your computer down are easily detected and removed with this software.

• Performance boost for your PC
• Free phone support
• Stops viruses in their tracks

4.  Avast Antivirus 2013

This antivirus can be used on both computers as well as mobile.  Avast antivirus is user friendly with an easy interference and other nifty features.  This powerful antivirus automatically detects phishing and secures your data from hackers.

• Blocks viruses and spyware
• Remote assistance
• Streaming virus database updates
• Enhanced touch screen navigation
• Software updater maintenance tool

5.  Kaspersky Antivirus

Kaspersky Antivirus helps defend your data against Trojans that effect your computer.  This antivirus protects your data from malicious attacks with time-by-time updates.

• Protects against all viruses
• Detects new threats
• Identifies suspicious websites
• Prevents your PC from malware vulnerabilites

References:
Top 5 Best Free Antivirus For Windows 8 – Skyhitech
http://www.skyhittech.com/top-5-best-free-antivirus-for-windows-8/
August 7, 2013
BitDefender Antivirus Plus Download – HermanStreet
http://store.hermanstreet.com/pc-software/bitdefender-antivirus-plus-download/?cmpid=529806&s_kwcid=TC|17163|bitdefender%20antivirus%20plus%202013||S|e|25620204081&gclid=CJPQ8qTo_7gCFc57QgodHVgATQ
Microsoft Security Essentials – Microsoft
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/security-essentials-download
Is AntiVirus FREE right for you? – AVG
http://free.avg.com/us-en/free-antivirus-download
avast! Free Antivirus – Avast!
http://www.avast.com/en-us/index
Kaspersky Anti-Virus 2013 -BuyCheapSoftware
http://www.buycheapsoftware.com/details.asp?productID=5789&utm_source=GoogleProductSearch&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=ComparisonSite&gdftrk=gdfV23304_a_7c1137_a_7c3520_a_7cKAV1303121USZZ5789

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Microsoft Windows 8.1 is Arriving!

Microsoft revealed their Windows 8.1 will be released on October 18, 2013.  Windows 8.1 will be released at 12 a.m. in New Zealand for it’s global tour.  Boxed discs, new hardware, and everything you need will be in stores by the 18th.  The Windows 8 users will be able to download and install the 8.1 version for free via the Microsoft Windows Store.
With all the traffic Microsoft will be getting, they are going to increase their rates on the new PCs and tablets.  Microsoft’s Windows 8.1 is available to be previewed as of June.  The new version of Windows offers a Start button, that is not a Start menu.  The button will allow you to return to the Start screen with a click, buttons are more fun than menus anyway, right?  If you would like to get down to business and bypass the Start screen entirely, there is a Boot to Desktop option.

Start em up

For the users who want to use the Start screen, they will find a fun and easy way to customize and personalize the menu.  There are special features like the All Apps screen and Search tools have been enhanced.  There are many other built-in apps that have improved as well.
The new Windows 8.1 is designed for both PCs and touch-screen devices.  Although, the new modern look of the UI may not be everyone’s favorite.  It has been a hit-or miss with its dueling Modern desktop approach.

References:

Windows 8.1 Preview
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-8/preview?ocid=GA8_O_WOL_Hero_Home_BlueRP_Pos2_01
Windows 8.1 digital download will be released October 17, full retail launch October 18 – PCWorld
http://www.pcworld.com/article/2046630/windows-8-1-digital-download-will-be-released-october-17-full-retail-launch-october-18.html
August 14, 2013
Microsoft: Windows 8.1 to roll out October 18 – C-Net
http://news.cnet.com/8301-10805_3-57598456-75/microsoft-windows-8.1-to-roll-out-october-18/
August 14, 2013

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Smartphone Buyer’s Guide 2013

Smartphones are getting smarter with their bigger displays, stronger battery life, sharper camera’s and cool new gadgets. We are a society that wants bigger and better so here is the rundown of all the hottest phones this year.

Windows – Nokia Lumia 1020

The Lumia’s camera has a 41-megapixel sensor with image stabilization.  This state-of-the-art camera features xenon flash, high-end Zeiss optics, manual shutter, and many other photographic controls.  The Lumia captures two images automatically as you shoot.  The first is full-resolution and the other is either 34 or 38 megapixels.
The camera allows you to take pictures in direct sunlight.  It has a dual-core Qualcomm processor and 4.5-inch display.
Exclusively at AT&T for $299.99

Samsung Galaxy S4

Samsung’s flagship phone has all the bells and whistles.  The dual camera feature allows you to take pictures with the front and rear cameras simultaneously.
Answering calls takes just a wave of the hand.  If you hover your finger over the screen you can magnify text and images.
The battery in the Galaxy is removable.
This phone has 5-inch high resolution, quad-core Qualcomm processor, long battery life, and water-resistant on some models.
Available in all major U.S. wireless carriers for $199.99 with a two-year contract.

HTC ONE

The HTC is one of the thinnest and stylish phones out on the market.
It offers an excellent screen display, great photo features, and a BlinkFeed interface that pushes your screen content to the front and center instead of using icons.
HTC One has an UltraPixel Camera, 1080p HD video capture and playback.
For the 32GB version you can get this phone for $199.99.  $299.00 for the 64GB at AT&T and Sprint with a two-year contract.  T-Mobile has the HTC One available for $99.99 with a $20 a month payment for 24 months.

LG G2

The LG G2 offers a unique design with power controls in the back.  You can answer a phone call just by picking it up instead of pressing a button.  If you want to turn the phone off or on, just knock on the screen twice.
The power and volume controls are on the back of the phone sense its believed to be a more natural location.
The LG G2 comes with a handset with high-quality audio.  5.2-inch full-high definition IPS display.  Quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 processor.  32GB of internal storage and an all-day battery.
The G2 is available in all major U.S. carriers. Date of release TBA.

Motorola – Moto X

This Motorola has Touchless Control features that let you speak on command to make calls or texts.  The Active Display wakes up the phone when its sleeping.
You can personalize the phone back cover and highlight colors with the Moto X.  The cameria is 10 megapixels which is average for a camera phone.
It has 2GB of RAM, X8 Mobile Computing System, with a series of chips that includes a Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro.  Android(Jelly Bean) 4.7-inch AMOLD high-definition display with 720 x 1080 resolution.

Sony-Xperia Z

This phone has a 5-inch display, 13-megapixel camera and a battery with stamina.  The Xperia Z shuts down the wireless radios and other activities when you’re not using them to save life.
This is a smaller version of the Android tablet, can withstand a little water.  It is water-resistant down to 1 meter of water for up to a half-hour, as long as the ports are sealed.
The 5-inch high resolution (1920 x 1080) screen, quad-core Qualcomm processor, water resistant, long-life battery.
Exclusively from T-Mobile for $579.99.  Or $25 a month for 24 months.

Apple – iPhone 5S

The new iPhone will be the thinnest, lightest, and fastest iPhone ever.
12 megapixel iSignt camera, a larger display, faster chip, and the latest wireless technology.  iPhone 5 will have a fingerprint reader and Sapphire glass Home button.
4-inch Retina display, and ultrafast wireless.  18%thinner, 20% lighter, and 12% less volume.
The iOS is the worlds most advanced mobile operating system, with over 900,000 built-in apps.
Price TBD at the Apple iPhone Store coming out this September/October.






References:
iPhone 5S release date, news and rumours – TechRadar.Phones
http://www.techradar.com/us/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/iphone-5s-release-date-news-and-rumours-1111911
July 22, 2013
Fall’s hottest smartphones: A buyer’s guide – USA Today
http://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/personal/2013/08/10/top-smartphones-android-apple-windows-phone/2635511/
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Buy of the Week: Brother MFC 9130CW – Color Multifunction Printer

This Brother MFC 9130CW color multifunction printer is fast, reliable, and has great color resolution.
If you’re looking for a reliable digital color printer, that is fast and efficient, the Brother MFC-9130CW is what you need.  This color printer copies and prints high-impact color up to 19ppm, and scans and faxes too.  It offers wireless printing from mobile devices, and has features such as a 3.7″ color Touch Screen display.

Main Features

• Fast Printing
• 3.7″ Color TouchScreen Display
• Wireless Networking
• High-Impact Business Printing
• Mobile Device Printing
• 35-page Capacity Auto Document Feeder
• High Quality Scanning
• Customer Support

Call (619) 325-0990 to order Brother Color Printer today!

Buy of the Week offer valid through August 16, 2013.
Note: Shipping and taxes apply.
Looking for something else? Check out our monthly deals or contact us to get a quote on the product you’re searching for.

http://www.hyphenet.com/blog/buy-of-the-week-brother-color-multifunction-printer/

How to keep your email safe…

Spam isn’t only annoying but it is also dangerous to users.  Attackers often send vast broadcasts with misleading IP addresses and email addresses.  Over 27 million Americans have been a victim of identity theft in the past five years.  More than 9 million people found their identities were stolen last year alone.
If a spammer gets a hold of both a company’s email and IP adress, the impact can be disastrous.  The company’s Internet connection would be terminated by it’s Internet Service Provider (ISP) if its an email that is added on the black list of spamming addresses.  It is very important to guard all gateways of a network.  Having a firewall and anti-virus software sometimes isn’t enough to keep you safe.  An intrusion detection system(IDS) is good to have, this system makes sure nobody is able to access your network without permission.
We have gotten a little wiser when it comes to email spams and scams.  Cybercriminals are also doing their homework and becoming more clever with these scams.  An email scam might start out with a bill that’s owed or even a wedding invitation from a friend.

Here are a few tips for keeping your email safe:

• Look at the IP address

Check the link from the sender by hovering over the email address, make sure the link looks legit and makes sense.

• Be careful with shortened URLs

Twitter uses URL shorteners but be cautious if you receive one in your email. Ask yourself why would anyone not want to show the company they are sending an email from.

• Telephone numbers aren’t guaranteed

Even if the email looks professional and has a telephone number, it can be a cyber-criminal trick. The phone number may lead you to a scammer requesting for personal information.

• Don’t give out your email address

Giving out your email address is a bad idea. Electric companies in the U.S. were targeted with a “spear phishing” attack, which used information on company websites. Also be aware of the uncertainty of putting your email address public to social networks or Craigslist.

• Don’t auto load images

Don’t configure your email settings to where images are automatically downloaded. This will send a signal to spammers and the images sent to you are stored onto their servers with your email connected to them.

• Don’t spam yourself

Be mindful of filling out internet forms. Don’t click on the “I want to receive information”, box unless you truly trust the company. Even if the company is reputable, your email could possibly be passed on to other lists.

• Don’t store important information in your “Sent” folder

Bank account information, credit card numbers, and passwords are not safe in your “Sent” folder. These details can be picked up by spammers very easily.

• Make recovery questions hard

Questions like your first job or your mothers maiden name can be found very easily. Choose something harder, or if possible  make up your own question.

Unless we are aware of the possibilities of how these cyber criminals are take our identity and personal info, we will not know who to prevent it from happening.  Make sure you always have strong passwords and an up-to-date anti-virus on your computer.  Be cautious when connecting to open Wifi spots and consider a multi-factor authentication to add extra security to your system.   Fortunately, the U.S. Federal Government and email service providers have been taking steps to reduce and hopefully eliminate spam email.

References:
Bulletproof Inbox: Tips for staying safe (and sane) on email – WeLiveSecurity
http://www.welivesecurity.com/2013/08/02/bulletproof-inbox-tips-for-staying-safe-and-sane-on-email/
August 2, 2013
Ten Scariest Hacking Statistics – StopTheHacker
http://www.stopthehacker.com/2012/04/20/ten-scariest-hacking-statistics/#.UgUTM2009qY
April 20, 2013
Email hacking – Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Email_hacking
What is Email Spam? – Comm100
http://emailmarketing.comm100.com/email-marketing-ebook/email-spam.aspx

Thumbnail image courtesy of [Stuart Miles] / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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Infographic: Top 10 Internet and Email Scams

Online internet scams are still on the rise, taking innocent people for their money every second.  With most of the population browsing the internet on a daily basis, we sometimes forget their are lurkers out there waiting to catch us off guard.  These internet scammers are more tricky and smarter than ever.  Here is an Infographic of the top 10 internet and email scams we are seeing today.




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Firefox and Chrome’s Browser Debugger

It’s Christmas for all you Web Developers out there! Mozilla and Google have updated their browsers to help developers debug their websites more efficiently.  This in-browser code editor gives developers the customization control to specify their own keyboard shortcuts, external code, validation tools, and syntax highlighting colors.
Tuesday, Firefox 23 was released, Mozilla also introduced a number of new features to its Web Developer Toolbar.  Google has announced additional features to its Chrome Developer Tool as well.  This is great news for the developers out there.  There are well know issues with browser compatibility, with these news browser debugging tools the fight should be a little easier.  Also the time saved from switching back and forth from browser to code editor will free up time for other matters.

The Developer

Developers are jumping for joy because their job is going to get easier. The browser debugging tools will help developers more effectively write and debug their websites. The growing use of the browser for ample interactions between users and services is more than exciting. Developers will have personalization options and be able to edit code right in the browser, disable JavaScript and even disable all other styles of code.
This means no more looking through files to find specifically where your code is, you can just click and edit right on the page.
This open source browser also comes with Network Monitor. This displays every action the browser takes when downloading a page, including the errors shown and loading times.
Firefox 23 can now support a range of values for the HTML5 form control. Also the introduction of Workspaces, a built-in source code editor that could eliminate the process of flipping between an external code editor and a browser to check the newly edited Web page.
Workspaces will enable the developer to edit the Web page directly using the DevTools console. If the changes are correct, they can be written back to the disk.  So using an external editor is no longer needed.

“This enables you to author and tweak your scripts and styles, instantly see those changes reflected in the browser and have them transparently persist to disk,” wrote Vsevolod Vlasov, a Google software engineer on the Chrome DevTools team, in a blog post announcing the update.

The Chrome editor supports syntax highlighting for PHP, Python, Java, CSS, HTML, and JavsScript.
When the DevTools are updated, developers can now live edit their pre-processed CSS files as well. DevTools already offers the ability to save scripts, bookmarklets, and other utilities.

References:
Firefox, Chrome strengthen in-browser debugging – InfoWorld
http://www.infoworld.com/node/224333
August 7, 2013
Firefox, Chrome strengthen in-browser debugging – PCWorld
http://www.pcworld.com/article/2046063/firefox-chrome-strengthen-inbrowser-debugging.html
August 6, 2013

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