Battle Ground Computers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is malware?
Malware is a term used to describe all the various forms of viruses now in the wild - downloaders, trojans, keyloggers, spyware, etc.
Where does malware come from?
When the internet first started, there were some people who found it amusing and ego-boosting to hack into websites just to prove they could. It wasn’t much different than simple vandalism. But most of today’s hackers are in it for the money, and they are serious criminals. Many of them live in foreign countries like Russia, where they support their families with their illegal activities. You can pick up an infection by opening an infected email, (especially by opening an attachment), or by visiting a website that has been hacked into. There are also website "traps", websites set up for the express purpose of spreading malware.
Malware is a term used to describe all the various forms of viruses now in the wild - downloaders, trojans, keyloggers, spyware, etc.
Where does malware come from?
When the internet first started, there were some people who found it amusing and ego-boosting to hack into websites just to prove they could. It wasn’t much different than simple vandalism. But most of today’s hackers are in it for the money, and they are serious criminals. Many of them live in foreign countries like Russia, where they support their families with their illegal activities. You can pick up an infection by opening an infected email, (especially by opening an attachment), or by visiting a website that has been hacked into. There are also website "traps", websites set up for the express purpose of spreading malware.
What's the best computer to buy?
Trying to choose one computer that is better than another one is very difficult.
Tom says it this way:
* Every computer is a good one as long as it does what you expect it to.
* Every computer will break
* You can only determine the quality of your computer after it breaks.
Quality is very subjective. Since computers all do the same thing (some faster than others), "quality" is usually a product of the experience you have in resolving a problem with the computer. The "best" computer is the one with available and user-friendly support. Trying to talk to someone you can barely understand isn't usually a good experience when you're already frustrated with your computer not working.
Purchase locally! We have to get it right, because we have to answer to our customers in person.
Where can I recycle my old computer?
There are several places/organizations that will recycle, reuse or dispose of computers and monitors. This link will take you to the Clark County recycling information page.
Trying to choose one computer that is better than another one is very difficult.
Tom says it this way:
* Every computer is a good one as long as it does what you expect it to.
* Every computer will break
* You can only determine the quality of your computer after it breaks.
Quality is very subjective. Since computers all do the same thing (some faster than others), "quality" is usually a product of the experience you have in resolving a problem with the computer. The "best" computer is the one with available and user-friendly support. Trying to talk to someone you can barely understand isn't usually a good experience when you're already frustrated with your computer not working.
Purchase locally! We have to get it right, because we have to answer to our customers in person.
Where can I recycle my old computer?
There are several places/organizations that will recycle, reuse or dispose of computers and monitors. This link will take you to the Clark County recycling information page.
Won't my antivirus program stop the malware?
Unfortunately, not all of it. Your antivirus is only part of the solution. Hackers have learned how to circumvent many of the big name antivirus programs. You also need to learn to be a smart computer user. For our latest recommendations in security practices and programs, please give us a call. Meanwhile, when in doubt, don't click!
Where can I learn more about removing malware myself?
Follow this link to Tom's site: www.malware-removal-guide.com.
Unfortunately, not all of it. Your antivirus is only part of the solution. Hackers have learned how to circumvent many of the big name antivirus programs. You also need to learn to be a smart computer user. For our latest recommendations in security practices and programs, please give us a call. Meanwhile, when in doubt, don't click!
Where can I learn more about removing malware myself?
Follow this link to Tom's site: www.malware-removal-guide.com.
