Hello everyone!

Wow, what a storm we had last week!  This kind of weather always makes me stand in awe at how wild animals can endure arctic temperatures for extended periods of time.  But then, they were clearly designed to withstand these and other rigid demands so openhandedly bequeathed by Mother Nature herself.

In this and all editions of Bright Ideas we promise to share with you timely, relevant stories from the inside of our IT world that will build your “technological dermis” - layer by layer - which over time will help you to begin weathering mini IT-storms of your own.  Don’t worry though, when your next blizzard hits we’re here for you.

So, enjoy, and let the growth begin!

Loren Brewer
President, Wingenuity
 

Rogue anti-viruses and "scare-ware":
What are they and how do they work?

A new trend is changing the face of the computer virus as we know it.  A form of virus called a "Rogue anti-virus" or "scare-ware" is beginning to raise many concerns and questions.

"What is scare-ware?"
"What is a rogue?"
"Where do they come from?"

We have been asked these questions a lot lately, and want to help answer them for you.

"Scare-ware" is a new term for this type of computer virus.  Basically it is any virus or program that attempts to scare you into purchasing a program or service.  A program might scare you by displaying a web page that is designed to look like a virus scanner.  This scanner pretends to scan your computer and presents you with many "infections".


They often portray themselves as real Windows programs as well to seem legitimate.



Normally they will inform you that you are infected with "X" number of viruses.  They tell you to download or buy their "anti-virus software" to clean your computer.  The software itself is a virus that will make your computer nearly unusable.




Don't Buy It!

Your best defense against this type of infection is to simply never buy a program unless you KNOW what it is, even if someone online is trying to scare you into purchasing their software or service.  If you have questions about the legitimacy of an online claim or service, call and talk to one of our knowledgeable technicians first.  Trustworthy advice could save you a lot of time, grief, and money.  If you have already purchased and/or installed this type of software don't fret - we can help you get it all cleaned up as well.

New Shop in Bristol - Going Strong!

Since opening our new shop in Downtown Bristol in June of 2010 we have welcomed a great deal of new business through our doors.  Thanks to all who have made this a worthwhile venture!  If you haven't stopped by yet, stop in to visit us - we would love to see you!