How to Get a Deal on Computers and Security Products
If you're looking for a reputable, reliable place to buy computer products or electronics online, check out eCost.com. I've been buying from eCost for years, and have always been happy with their fine selection of new and refurbished computers, laptops, monitors, hard drives, televisions, etc... They carry name brand items like HP, Sony, Panasonic, Sharp, iPod and more; and you can get products at up to 80% off regular retail store prices.
As for computer security products, eCost carries computer cable locks, usb flash drives (great for backing up data), laptop cases, biometric fingerprint readers, backup software, and internet security software. Their quantities are sometimes limited, and they put items on sale when only a few items are remaining. Be sure to check out the "bargain countdown" section for super cheap prices on terrific computer and electronics items.
If you're in the market for a new cheap computer or laptop, eCost is the place to shop. I like to buy factory refurbished computer items because they are (in my opinion) "better than new". This is because whatever the problem was is now fixed - for good. I've never had a problem with any refurbished item I've bought from eCost, and I have purchased digital cameras, an LDC television, computer monitors, computers, hard drives, and a laptop.
Buy the best in brand name electronics virtually AT COST!
With Christmas coming up, you can buy more gifts for your money at eCost. If you're buying a computer or laptop, be sure to get an internet security suite (which will protect you from viruses, spyware, spam and hackers) to ensure that your personal information and the new PC remain uncompromised :)
Most PC's are Infected With Spyware - Is Yours?
Did you know that around 80% of all computers worldwide are infected with dangerous spyware? I think the reason for this is that most people either don't realize the huge security risk associated with spyware, or don't think they are at risk simply because they haven't noticed any problems.
As an information technology professional, I am often asked to "fix" home computers for friends and colleagues. When I work on PC's, I always do a spyware and virus scan simply because I know that the computer is most likely infected. Guess what? I have yet to find a "clean" computer! That's right, every home computer I have ever worked on has been infected with at least a dozen instances of spyware, and around half are also infected with some type of computer virus.
Nearly all computers I see are running antivirus software, because it was "preinstalled" when the computer was purchased. Well over half of the computers running antivirus software do not contain updated virus definitions because the user never renewed the subscription; as a result they are no longer protected from any new viruses.
I have yet to see a home computer that is running anti spyware software, and users always seem "surprised" to hear that this is a necessity in this day and age. With weak antivirus protection and no protection from spyware, their computers (and their personal information) are "sitting ducks", just begging for more spyware to be installed.
Spyware has become just as prevelant as computer viruses, and new types of spyware are introduced onto the internet every day. One purpose of spyware is to steal personal information such as bank account numbers, user id's, passwords, and credit card information. Another common form of spyware is used to plant remote control software on your computer, so the creator (cyber criminal) can use it as a "bot" (robot, or slave) for the purpose of sending spam and phishing emails, or for launching illegal DoS attacks to bring down corporate and government networks.
Modern antivirus software will catch some spyware, but not all. In order to fully protect yourself it is necessary to use a combination of antivirus and antispyware software (and subscribe to automatic updates). Spyware is installed secretly and instantly when a user opens an infected email, visits unscrupulous websites, downloads certain "free" software, or clicks on certain "pop up" ads. The installation/infection happens so quick that it's impossible to tell you just got infected!
Spyware also shows no symptoms, until the system is so heavily infected (with hundreds of spywares) that it slows down to a crawl. By this time, you can be sure your personal security has been compromised, and your infected computer has likely participated in many illegal activities - all without your knowledge. Complete removal of the spyware at this stage is unlikely, even with the best anti spyware products. The best thing to do at this point is reformat your hard drive and reload all your software to start "fresh". It is also highly advisable to change all your passwords to online accounts. If you do a lot of online shopping or banking, you may want to have new credit cards issued as a precaution - because there is a high probablity that your account numbers are already in someone elses possession.
To protect yourself from spyware, and to clean up any spyware you currently have on your PC, download and install a good antispyware product. Here are some recommendations:
- NOD 32 - stops spyware and viruses
A note of caution about antispyware products! Many websites offer "free" anti spyware software, which is actually spyware in disguise. Stick with reputable computer security companies when downloading and purchasing antispyware software - otherwise you may just find yourself installing some very dangerous spyware. All of the links above will take you to the software developers "official" site, where you can be assured of getting the real deal.
For more information on spyware and antispyware software choices, visit my website:
