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Updated-Data-protection-regulations

Updated Data protection regulations coming into force

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From 25 May 2018 GDPR (General Data Protection Regulations) will be in force throughout the EU and the UK Government has confirmed that it will comply regardless of the decision to leave the EU.

The GDPR is designed to improve consistency in protecting and strengthening consumers’ rights over their personal data, although work is continuing on refining the regulations.

Many organisations collect and keep personal information for a range of legitimate purposes, from use in targeted business marketing, to records kept by organisations providing health and other services and also for research.

But rarely a week passes without news of yet another organisation’s customer database being invaded or “hacked”.

Any business or organisation that collects information from people who either work for or use its services has a duty to ensure it is stored securely and safely.

When the new regulations come into force both businesses and those who process digital records for them will now be accountable. They will have to document decisions that are made about processing the data that has been collected. This means showing that the data has been lawfully collected for specified and legitimate purposes, and that the details of what has been collected are specific and limited to those purposes.

Crucially the information must be protected and held securely and must be stored for no longer than required.

Any organisation or business that keeps lists containing people’s personal data will need to look at their data collection, storage and processing systems to be ready in time for the new regulations.  They must ensure they have proper permissions for collecting and holding personal information and can verify this. Silence or pre-ticked boxes are not proper consent.

They must also give individuals a right of access to and correction of the information being held, the right to its removal and to restricting it and the right to object. So, they will need to put in place acceptable governance to ensure all these rights are acted on, on request and in a timely manner.

Opt-outs from the regulations, known as derogation, will be allowed only in some situations – such as for national security reasons.

RIP-Vista

The End for Windows Vista

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No more support for Windows Vista

It is ten years since the Windows Vista operating system was launched and this week on April 11 2017 Microsoft finally withdrew support.

Vista users will no longer receive security updates that can help protect PCs from harmful viruses, spyware, and other malicious software that can steal personal information.

When it was launched, Vista was supposed to revolutionise Windows because of its new file system and user interface.  But the new system was “graphically intense” and took up a lot of space, especially on laptops.  It was also too much for many netbooks.

Users complained about file transfers being slower than Windows XP, video games were sluggish, and on-screen prompts constantly pestered PC owners.

Vista reportedly became one of the most disliked software packages, especially when compared with Windows XP, which was two years older than Vista.

At the time, Microsoft was criticised for failing to understand customers’ needs and for not listening to them.

While those who still have Vista on their machines will still be able to run it, they should be aware that they will no longer be protected and if they store sensitive information, where security is important they should consider changing to a different operating system.

They may also find that their PCs will no longer work with other hardware, such as printers, scanners and cameras that have been manufactured to be compatible with more recent operating systems.

If you want to find out about the life cycles for support on other Windows operating systems there’s a fact sheet here

If you want help to upgrade to a newer system Colchester IT can assess whether your existing computer hardware is powerful enough to cope as Windows 10, for example, is very power-hungry needs at least 1GB of RAM, between 16 GB and 20 GB of free storage, and a display with a resolution of at least 800 x 600 pixels.

Call us for advice and to help you through the process of upgrading.

bbc-scam

New ruse by scammers to get control of your computer

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In the last couple of days there have been warnings about a sneaky new tactic being used by scammers to get control of people’s computers, as ever with the objective of extorting or stealing money.

The warnings have come from the UK’s National Trading Standards e-crime team.

In this scam the problem starts when the computer owner has a printer that develops problems and then goes online to find a printer helpline, which they then call.

“This printer helpline scam is particularly pernicious because it encourages victims to unknowingly contact the fraudsters of their own accord,” said Mike Andrews, the team’s lead co-ordinator.

This new ruse is a 21st Century version of the psychology used in old-fashioned distraction burglaries, where the criminal depends on the victim’s attention being on something else and therefore not alert to the real danger they are in.

Callers to the fake printer helplines are fooled into allowing remote access to their computers. Then, in the same way as the more well-known scams that depend on an unsolicited phone call claiming to be from Microsoft, victims are persuaded to allow remote access to their computer to fix the problems, only this time supposedly with their printer.

Victims are likely to be less alert to a possible fraud because their attention is not on their PC but on a printer issue.

From there on the victims are trapped by the usual scammer tactics of either refusing to hand back control until the owner pays them some money, or by the scammers inserting malware into the computer that allows them to steal the owner’s bank account details, again to extract money.

The best advice is to either access the printer manufacturer’s own website online and search for its official troubleshooting advice or helpline, or consult the brochure that came with the machine if there is one.

You should never, ever, allow remote access to your computer by someone you have not met and are talking to on the phone. Equally important is to keep virus and malware protection software up to date to protect the computer from the latest scams.

This is the latest variation to add to a growing list of telephone and email scams that also include emails that appear to be from legitimate banks or Internet service providers (ISPs). These usually contain a link for the recipient to click on, at which point the scammer has access to either steal financial information or to encrypt the machine then demand a ransom payment to unlock it.

According to the organisation Action Fraud, there were more than 32,000 instances of various types of computer service fraud in 2016, an increase of 47% since 2014.

If you have been effected by this scam or have any concerns contact us at ColchesterIT for FREE no partial advice. Or simply call us on 01206 634063

Charity-Sky-Dive

Charity Sky Dive

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ColchesterIT Charity Skydive

Extreme thrill and adrenaline rush was on the cards for ColchesterIT owner, Nigel, last week as he braved jumping out of an aircraft and plunging down to earth at speeds of more than 120 mph for a great cause.

This immense breathtaking experience was a skydive at 13,000 feet (just over three miles!) in aid of raising funds for the The Isobel Parmenter Memorial Fund, a charity close to the hearts of many. Nigel’s jump took place in Lowestoft with UK Parachuting, and raised a stonking total of more than £750!

You can watch his exhilarating experience on YouTube here:

Well done, Nigel!

Nigel’s skydive was in aid of an extremely worthwhile cause – The Isobel Parmenter Memorial Fund at CCLG. A small person inspiring people to do BIG things! This is funding essential research into the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of histiocytosis – a rare cancer group of diseases caused by an increase of white blood cells in the blood and tissue. It is hoped that one day a cure will be found.

To find out more about this amazing charity, and how you can give your support and get involved, please visit: http://www.cclg.org.uk/Isobel-Parmenter-Memorial-Fund

 

computer-virus

How to tell if you have a virus

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Five signs your computer may have a virus

All computers can have their moments – fine one minute, slow and glitchy or crashing the next. It can become incredibly frustrating, especially when you’re in the middle of something important! This is usually due to a temporary software hiccup, which is why running updates or a system reboot will often solve the problem. Unfortunately, this is not always the case and it is possible your computer has become subject to a malicious virus.

Here are five signs your computer may have a virus…

Your computer is running slow

A frequently cited symptom of a computer virus is slow performance and running times. This is also true when spyware or adware is lurking in the system. Don’t panic immediately as a slow PC may just need some TLC such as some more memory or RAM, or it might need defragmenting.

Pop-up adverts

Back in the day, pop-ups were a normal (but very annoying) part of surfing the web. Thankfully, things have changed for the better and the modern browser generally includes pop-up protection which blocks those buggers out of our internet experience on most websites….hooray!!

However, if you still see a lot of pop-ups even when you’re not connected to the internet, then your computer has most likely fallen victim to a virus. The first step is to run an anti-virus and anti-spyware scan that will dig deep into your files and settings and remove any bugs.

Strange messages sent

The common goal of most viruses is to infect the target computer, and spread that virus as far and wide as possible. This is often carried out through your email inbox by sending email messages to your contacts, colleagues and friends. The email typically includes a dodgy link or attachment and the end result is that the recipient will likely get infected with the virus as well.

Be sure to keep checking your ‘sent’ folder and if you notice anything weird that you don’t recall sending, then it’s probably a virus. Also, this type of spam can infiltrate through your social media networks such as Facebook and Twitter, so keep an eye on this too.

You get locked out of your computer

A type of virus called ransomware will typically disguise itself as a threatening pop-up message claiming that you are locked out of your computer. This is a scam which attempts to make you pay a money – a ransom – to free your files. The message usually pretends to be from law enforcers or anonymous blackmailers; so keep your whits about you.

You can’t access things properly

If you’re used to relying on Ctrl+Alt+Delete and the task manager when your computer has a moment, then you may be shocked when this suddenly stops working, or presents itself as an error message. This would be due to a virus messing with the system.

Viruses often block your access to internal programmes, settings and utilities so you can’t see the damage they are causing. Use a deep cleansing anti-malware facility to keep your system in check.

 

Windows-10

All About Windows 10

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All about Windows 10

Windows 10 boasts a ton of fantastic new features that make using your laptop or PC easier and more enjoyable. Whether you use your computer for work or play, here is a roundup of new Windows 10 features that we know you will love!

Say hello

Windows Hello is a new way to connect to your device. This makes it possible to sign in using your face or fingerprint instead of the traditional password. A great additional security feature which will help protect your personal files and data.

Get off to the right Start

Windows 10 has reintroduced the start bar we all know and love, but now it is bigger and better than ever before. You can organise and personalise the start bar features to suit your own requirements.

Your most used apps will be highlighted on the left, while the All Apps tab will be your gateway to everything else on your PC such as files and settings.

More media

Windows 10 includes a brilliant new store which gives you access to music, games, apps, videos and more at your fingertips. The store packs in plenty of free content as well as paid-for items, and you can always preview before you purchase. Download an app and it will work across all your Windows 10 devices including phones, laptops, PCs and even the Xbox.

To get going, you will need a Microsoft account and an internet connection. Simply browse through the trending top charts or search for the type of media you’re looking for. Create custom lists collections to meet your needs.

Cortana

Cortana is the Windows 10 personal assistant. She will help you co-ordinate as much or as little as you need. For example, get Cortana to send an email, add a calendar event, search the web and more.

Use the search box to make Cortana get to work, or simply speak to her through your computer’s microphone or a headset. If you just want a laugh, get Cortana to tell you a joke!

Doodling is a doddle

Microsoft’s new browser, Edge allows you to customise any web page with drawings, doodles, highlighting and more. Your doodles aren’t just limited to the world wide web though, you can also use your finger, tablet pen or mouse to draw your way through any place you can normally write, for example OneNote. Just make sure your boss isn’t watching!

All your photos in one place

The new photo app in Windows 10 collates all your photos and videos in one place. It takes all your snaps from your PC and laptop, phone and OneDrive and organises them into shareable albums.

Upgrade to Windows 10 without the hassle

If you like the sound of Windows 10 and would like to use it on your PC or laptop, but are a bit unsure of how to get started, then we can help you.

ColchesterIT will take the hassle out of upgrading your PC or laptop to Windows 10 for just £29! Pop in to see us for more information, or use our contact form here to book an appointment.

 

Phone-camparison

Get the most out of your new smartphone

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Get the most out of your new smartphone

If you were the lucky recipient of a shiny new smartphone this Christmas, let us help you set it up for ultimate enjoyment.

1) Connect to wifi

You don’t want to drain your data allowance before you’ve even set your phone up! Connect to your wifi to make sure you stay well within limits.

2) Sign up

Smartphones generally require users to have an account for backing up apps, settings and data. Make sure you have the relevant logins – either Microsoft, Google or Apple. You can choose how much access you want your logins to give you, from simple phone management, to email, app store and other functions.

If you already have an account from an existing smartphone, you can restore as much or as little of your old data and settings as you want.

3) Protect your data

Implement passcodes and fingerprint recognition where possible to keep intruders (and relatives!) away from your personal files and photos.

4) Turn on location services

Should you ever misplace your smartphone, it is easy to prevent your personal information from falling into the wrong hands and also reunite yourself with your device.

To do this, you need to make sure that your location settings are activated to “Find Phone” as this shows your device location on a remotely accessed map and makes it possible for you to wipe the lost phone.

Make sure you also activate the backup service so you can regain access to your stuff. If you have loads of photos and music, it is worth investing in some cloud storage.

 

5) Install apps

Most of smartphone fun comes from the huge selection of apps you can have. From games to news, and social media – there’s something for everyone. Top apps include –

  • Facebook: Update your status and connect with friends on the go!
  • Twitter: Engage with people and brands using those all important 140 characters.
  • Whatsapp: Chat with friends and send multimedia messages quickly and easily for free.
  • Instagram: Share your favourite photos with your followers.
  • News: All the latest affairs at your fingertips.

Be careful as many apps are free but some do need to be paid for. Also, quite a few apps (especially games) might require payment once in use.

5) Sort out the notifications

After installing those great apps, you might notice your phone just doesn’t stop pinging and flashing as they try to keep you constantly updated. This can be very annoying, particularly if you are trying to work or sleep!

Make sure you take a few minutes to sort through the notification settings so that you only get alerts for a chosen few.

6) Get a case

Smartphones are very powerful and can do thousands of cool things, but they are also very fragile and can break easily if mishandled or dropped.

Choose a suitable protective phone case for your device to help take on some of the impact if dropped- there are thousands of styles and designs available so you can really express your personality too.

7) Get help if you need it

Here at ColchesterIT, we are experienced in fixing iPhone screens at an affordable price. So if your new device gets damaged, rest assured we can help you get it back up and running in no time at all.

We are also able to help with a wide range of mobile phone issues, so if you’re unsure about something on your new smartphone, just pop in and see us, we are happy to help.

iPad-Pro-review

iPad Pro

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The Apple iPad Pro will be hitting stores on November 11th 2015. The extra large screen device will be available to purchase both in stores and online – just in time for Christmas!

 

About the iPad Pro

Packed full of features, The iPad Pro is certainly set to be a big hit. Boasting a huge 12.9 inch display with a resolution that can handle more than 5.6 million pixels. Apple have teamed this with a 64 bit processor which is nearly two times faster than their previous chip.

If that’s not enough to get you excited, you’ll be pleased to know that the battery will last for around ten long hours from one single charge and the device features four speakers (one in each corner) all of which can produce three times more audio than the iPad Air 2.

The iPad Pro will come in a choice of three colourways: silver, gold and space grey; and will retail at around £599 for 32GB while the 128GB specced out model will have a price tag of about £700.

 

iPad Pro Accessories

For those who want to get even more out of this great device, there will be two cool accessories.

Firstly, a Smart Keyboard which connects to the iPad via magnetic connection as well as offering a boost in power and data. This basically turns your iPad into a laptop, making it much easier to compile documents.

There will also be a high-tech stylus, The Apple Pencil, which incorporates Force Touch technology to understand the user’s actions by responding to pressure, angle, dimension and positioning.

What do you think of the Apple iPad Pro?! Are you putting it on your Christmas list? Let us know!

 

iPad Screen Repair Services

If the iPad Pro has got you so excited that you’ve dropped your current iPad, don’t despair! – ColchesterIT are able to carry out iPad and iPhone screen repairs. If you need this service, we’ll be happy to help – just let us know.