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Expert ADVICE
Malware Awareness
LEONARD PASCUAL A Sound Look 502 Cerrillos Road 505.983.5509 ASoundLook.com
APPLE Malware once again rears its ugly head. Even Apple is starting to suffer from the malware bug. As of the writing of this article, Apple has been hit with MAC malware called Fruitfly. There are several variations of this malware. Its current intent is to spy on people. The computer camera will turn on and the attacker can view the user on their own camera. This malware can also capture all screen shots from your computer. This means everything you have open and all your typing is visible from elsewhere. Every button you press also creates a log for the hacker to track your movements. Adware on Apple devices sky rocketed during the 2016 year. This includes Apple devices and PCs.
PC Legacy systems, such as all the older and thus not-supported Windows operating systems, were recently infected by a malware called “Wanna Cry.” This virus attacked computers and then
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blackmailed the user, ranging from $300 to $600. While this virus affected a cross section of users, the most affected were small businesses. This occurrence was in May of 2017.
• Browsing history can be tracked in real time.
TOYS
• Internet Pause is a feature which allows for the internet to stop working during events (like parties, etc.).
Toy items—including cameras, microphones and other computer functions—are now being hacked by outsiders. Giving kids access to smart objects opens additional opportunities for hackers. This trend is becoming increasingly prevalent in the industry.
HOPE
Currently, companies are coming out with methods to help prevent intrusions and viruses: • Router Limits has many functions, which help break habits with over usage of the internet. • The system can set time limits on each internet user.
BUSINESS
• Safe searching of websites is another attempt to protect against malware.
• YouTube has many levels of viewing (G, PG, R and X). • The Everywhere Function allows for the device setup in the home to have the same parental controls even outside the home.
A SOUND LOOK We at A Sound Look work with partners to help close as many holes as possible in the malware fight. Give us a call for any assistance in computer needs.