Tech Talk with Bob

As the holidays quickly approach, I am scrambling to complete my shopping in time. I find I am doing most of my holiday shopping online this year, and you may too. As holiday euphoria sets in, we want to be sure that we do not drop our guard when shopping online. Here’s a few tips to help improve your safety posture when it comes to giving others access to your money.

First and foremost, do not use your computer for any financial transactions if you are not certain that your computer itself is functioning 100% free of any viruses, spyware, keyloggers, Trojans or any other dangerous software. If you question the integrity of your computer’s safety, you need to have it inspected by a certified professional. You have access to my professional analysts and technicians who thoroughly inspect and scrutinize your system for threats, so you can be sure you are ready for a safer online shopping experience.

Second, make sure your computer is using robust anti-malware software solutions to protect you. Be sure you always keep that software up to date too.

Third, be certain you also keep your computer’s operating system up to date with all its latest tweaks and security patches. Any security breach discovered in your operating system can leave you exceptionally vulnerable to attackers.

Fourth, not only does your computer need to be safe, the network it connects to must also be safe. Only shop online when you are connected to a network you trust. That means use your private home network not some public wi-fi hotspot at a park, restaurant, hotel, waiting room, etc. Any information that you type into any website can be seen and even collected by the owner of the hotspot; or even worse, a malicious attacker who has hacked and taken control of the hotspot. Online shopping from your private home network is a much safer bet than using any public hotspot.

Fifth, use credit cards instead of debit cards for your online purchases. Banks these days are pretty good about protecting their card users against fraud. However, if you should have an issue with a transaction, you’ll have less of a headache if you use your credit card instead of your debit card.

Sixth, vet your vendors. Don’t just buy from any website. It is easy for criminals to set up websites. You may stumble onto some sketchy sites while you shop. Be discriminating when it comes to the websites you choose to enter your credit card number into. If your gut doesn’t feel right as you type in your card number… STOP! Only buy from online vendors you are comfortable with.

Cyber criminals will exploit the easy victims and unprotected systems. Protecting yourself online is your responsibility, but you don’t have to do it all by yourself. I’m here to help you. If you are not sure your system is safe, you need to have me look at it. Call 727-

534-4000 right now. We’ve been helping folks restore their peace of mind, and sanity, with their technology for decades.

Want a money-saving offer or unique gift idea for the upcoming holidays? Buy one Cybersecurity Scan and GET ONE FREE. Yes, I will scan two computers for the price of one! You can give both scans away to two friends, or you can get your computer scanned and give a friend the gift of a FREE scan. One certificate is only $100 and good through December 2022. But you will get two Cybersecurity Scan Certificates when you purchase one between now and the end of December 2021. We can easily accommodate your phone order and we accept all major credit cards. Call 727534-4000 to place your order right now.

We Keep You Safer In Your Digital World!

To my Clients and Readers… A Big THANK YOU. I cherish your loyalty, continued support, and the many friendships made throughout the years. Please take time to be grateful for what you have and treasure your time with family and friends. My wonderfully supportive family and incredible staff wish you and your loved ones Happy Holidays and a Healthy, Safe, and Secure New Year!