Adobe .pdf Reader Critical Flaw

Adobe has warned of yet another critical flaw that effects most Windows users. If your version is 10.1.1 or earlier expect an update almost immediately. Plan B would have you using an alternative application such as Sumatra.

Opera 11.60 Released

Everyones third favorite browser has been released. If you presently use Opera it will be automagically updated. If you want to try a very secure browser you can download the latest version at http://www.opera.com.

Update Your Java Now

Go to http://java.com/en/ and click on the Do I have Java? link. If you do not have Java installed you have no worries. If you have Java installed then update it by clicking the large red Free Java Download link.

Dust Bunnies!

Once in a while (before your CPU melts?) you should take the time to UNPLUG THE POWER CABLE, pop open the case on your PC and carefully vacuum the insides taking care not to damage the components. This will, on occasion, require you to unscrew various bits in order to gain access to such things as the CPU. Be not afraid! Go slowly, never force anything and all will end well. If doing this much needed maintenance gives you a fright then have a PC tech do the duty.

A fuzzy PC can easily get hotter then it should with results including possible fire but more likely a fried CPU and/or a stir-fried motherboard. This would be bad ;)

Critical Security Fix it Released for Windows

If you run Windows Xp, Vista or Windows 7 you need to immediately install a patch. Go to http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2639658 and download and right-click install the Enable Fix it link. If the fix does not install correctly you should re-visit the link and click on the Disable Fix it link.

This threat is serious so don"t fail to install the patch - This “Duqu” Trojan is really nasty.

Peek-a-boo !

Remember the problem back in 2008 that resulted in an Adobe Flash Upgrade? The solution for future attacks targeting users built-in Webcams was to cover it with tape, chewing gum, etc. The USB cams would be made safe by simply unplugging them. Well, keep doing something because the security flaw still exists. Read aout it here.

Chrome Remote Desktop BETA

Google Chrome browser now has an App that allows for easy, attended remote access. Both computers must be running Chrome but it is OS independent worling on Windows, Mac and Linux. It is in BETA so expect weirdness until the bugs are worked out. This App should put the fear of God in other remote access applications such as Crossloop but until it allows for unattended access like UltraVNC it has limitations. Of course, you need a Gmail account for this to work and that means another step on Google's march to Internet dominance.So, fire up Chrome and install the Chrome Remote Desktop BETA.

Canuck Cybersecurity Site

The Canadian Federal Government has launched a website to educate the general public in the dangers posed by online cyberevil-doers. I urge everyone to have a look - no matter how Internet savvy you think you are. Visit http://www.getcybersafe.ca

You're all a bunch of thieving crooks.

A report from the Business Software Alliance (BSA) appears to show that most people have illegal or pirated software on their PC's. A Google news search gives you a good overview.

Tsk-tsk-tsk - you people should be ashamed.

Be aware that you will eventually be plagued with a piece of software containing a virus, spyware, malware, trojan or some other evil bit.

Try using open source software or look into searching for well written applications whose cost is rarely above $50.00 and generally provide years of free updates. Sweet.

What's on Your PC?

Do you know what software is on your PC? A woman in Vancouver now knows. A software application meant to allow a PC to be tracked via its IP address was also taking pics via its built-in webcam. This at the same time she was ingaging in, ahem, risque conduct with a 'special friend' if-you-get-my-drift. The Mothercorps has the story here.