Security Watchlist [February 4, 2013]

chief_geek — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 15:53:38 +0000

Security isn’t a “set it and forget it” part of technology, instead it is a continuously adapting set of protocols based on environment, scenario and vulnerabilities. It can be hard to keep up with all the security warnings, so we’re spotlighting three you need to be aware of this week.

Java

In truth, Java should be on your watch list every week. However, over the weekend Oracle released an emergency patch addressing 50 or so vulnerabilities in Java.

Security vulnerabilities are a long standing problem for Java, but have recently been brought to the forefront with some rather public admonishments from the government as well as being blacklisted by Apple. Apple is again blacklisting Java after this most recent patch, so vulnerabilities are still present.

The important thing for users is to make sure Java is updated on your system. As you start your work week, be sure to pay attention to that little Java update notification or download the most recent release. Users can download the latest update from the Java product page.

Apple

A strange bug has cropped up in OS X. The snippet “File:///” will crash any Mac app instantly. The bug is likely to be addressed by Apple in the next OS X update, but for now avoid that little gem unless you like crashing your system.

Android

Malware writers are, if nothing else, diligent in their cause towards creating havoc for users. A new variant has been discovered which disguises itself as a helpful cleanup type app for your Android phone. Of course the app is useless and instead downloads 3 files to your device which lay in wait until you connect your phone to a PC. The files then infect the PC where it activates the system’s microphone and records audio. The audio is sent back to the malware creators.

During this time, the devious app is collecting data from your phone as well which means it could wind up attacking you from two sides, PC and phone.

As always we recommend caution when downloading apps, but more to the point avoid apps which claim to boost, enhance or clean your Android device. If you need advice on apps, contact us or ask the community on our Facebook page – don’t go it alone.

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The post Security Watchlist [February 4, 2013] first appeared on GeekITDown Computer Services & Technology Solutions.

Handling Mac Pink Screen Issues

chief_geek — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 14:11:27 +0000

Though rare, Macs experience what can only be described as a pink screen issue. Users boot up their Macs only to find their screen has turned pink. It’s a weird issue that can be quite annoying, especially when diagnosing the problem. However, there is a quick step users can perform which may correct the pink screen and get things back to normal.

Fix a Mac Pink Screen

During boot up of the Mac machine, hold the following keys simultaneously until the startup sounds are finished.

Press and hold: OPTION + COMMAND + R + P

That key combination will reset hardware values for several items including the motherboard, NVRAM/PRAM and others as well as features such as Virtual Memory and Mouse Speed. When you perform this reset, make sure you wait and listen for the startup sounds before releasing the keys.

If the reset fails to eliminate the pink screen issue, then the problem is likely a faulty video card and will need to be serviced. Contact an Apple store for a formal diagnosis on the Mac’s video card.