All of us at Aptica wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! While we are all home enjoying some days off, let’s be cyber-safe while on our computers browsing for ways to either redeem gift cards or spend that holiday money. Here are a couple of reminders for cyber-safe browsing. Remember—the bad guys will be out in force trying to steal what they can.

If, while surfing the Internet, your computer locks up or pops up a message saying there is a serious security threat to your computer and you need to call an 800 number—DO NOT CALL THAT NUMBER. It’s a scam, no matter how convincing that Microsoft logo may look. Close your web browser by using task manager and then restart your computer. If you open to the same scam screen you will probably need to reset your browser. You may or may not need professional help with this.

If you receive a phone call from someone claiming to be Microsoft, The Internet (yes, this happens!), or even your Internet service provider offering to help you with a security problem they have detected in your computer—DO NOT ALLOW THEM TO TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR MACHINE. This could open the door for some overseas sleazeball to prowl around in your data and possibly steal your identity.

Also beware of anyone claiming that your Windows key has, or is about to expire. Windows keys never expire.

Finally, be careful when clicking on attachments or links within emails.  A general rule is to avoid even opening emails not solicited by you, do not know the sender, or just not what you typically see in your inbox.  This will help you avoid the nasty experience of a ransomware infection.

Aptica wishes you a cyber-safe Internet this Christmas.

This special season is meant for caring and sharing, and for spending time with those you love and for doing the things you love. Be sensible and cautious while online, though. The concept of the Grinch can be lurking just inside your next click! It’s good to know who you can call if something happens.

Jason Newburg, 260.243.5100, ext 2001, is the founder and owner of Aptica LLC. This IT management and support company has been serving small to medium-sized businesses for 15 years in the area that includes Angola, South Bend, and Fort Wayne, IN, Battle Creek, MI, and Toledo, OH.