Pop Ups 101

Here at SuperGeeks we see a lot of sick computers. Viruses, unwanted toolbars and other types of malware are common issues with a variety of symptoms. We have developed seminars around what we observe coming in the door, and one of the most common causes for these infections is the owner's lack of confidence in regard to pop ups. Some see a pop up or installation prompt and since they aren't sure about it, they ignore it completely. Others take the opposite approach and click "yes" to almost everything just to get it off the screen. Neither one of these is a good approach.

Over the last few weeks I have received phone calls from customers asking if something is safe to click on, and unfortunately, other customers have been tricked into re-installing malware on their computers. Here are just a few tips to help you recognize when to say yes, and when to be suspicious.

VIP List

There are several items on a Windows PC that will constantly need updating. Most legitimate "updates" are critical for the security of your computer, while others increase stability of the program or provide new functionality. If one of these programs has an update available, it is safe AND very important! Add to this list any programs that you know you have installed that ask for updates (Navica, Google Chrome, Dropbox, Skype etc).

- Windows Updates

-Manufacturer Updates (Toshiba, HP, Dell, etc)

- Java Updates (popup may say Oracle or JRE)*

- Adobe Updates (Reader, Flash Player)

- iTunes Updates (or Quicktime)

- Antivirus Software Updates

You should only have one antivirus program on your PC. Take a look at it from time to time so you recognize what the program looks like. If something pops up and says you are infected, but doesn't have your Antivirus Software program's name on it, and doesn't look the same, "it's a trap!"   

*Be aware that even programs on the VIP List may try to get you to install unwanted programs! For example, Java needs to be updated, but you do not need (or want) the Ask Toolbar it tries to sneak in. Slow down and read what you are agreeing to during installations and updates. 

Suspicious Items

While you should always be aware of what you are clicking, if it isn't on the VIP list, take a little extra time. 

- Pop ups telling you are infected or have problems.

- Pop ups from a program name you don't recognize

- Pop ups with NO program name.

- Any online pop ups

- Anything not on the VIP List or a Program you don't recognize.

Never click directly on any suspicious pop ups. Even though you may be clicking on an "X" or "No", the code behind that button might really say "Install a Virus for me please." Right click on the item on your taskbar, and close it from there.  

When in doubt, do a quick web search for what you are seeing, or call us at SuperGeeks (806 722 0770) and we will walk you through it! If you think you might already be infected, bring it by for a no obligation, $35 Diagnostic!

All of this and much more is included in our Safe Computing Seminar! Head to our training calendar for our complete schedule. Happy Computing!