Any doubts I may have had about the viability of QR codes have evaporated. You know a new technology is catching on when malware authors start using it to snare unwary users. Read on to learn how those funny black squares can carry a nasty (and expen...
Bob Rankin: Malware on the Rise
Malware developers have been working overtime, according to a recent McAfee Labs Threats Report. The security firm found over 8 million new species of malware in the first quarter of 2012, and the problem is by no means limited to desktop PC users. ...
Bob Rankin: How to Test and Fix Your Computer Hardware
If your computer is acting strangely, and you've already ruled out a virus, it might be gremlins. But more likely, a software error is being caused by a hardware component that's flaky, damaged, or overheated. Here are some tips and tools to help you...
Bob Rankin: Pay Microsoft $99 To Remove Crapware?
Microsoft wants you to experience the true power, speed, and elegance of Windows – and the company will only charge you $99 to do so. That's the price of Microsoft's new Signature service, which removes third-party crapware from your PC, and promis...
Bob Rankin: Will Microsoft Security Essentials Conquer the World?
Microsoft recently released Microsoft Security Essentials (MSE) 4.0, their free antivirus software. And according to a recent market analysis, MSE is on the verge of becoming the number one antivirus product. Find out what's new in the most recent MS...
Bob Rankin: The Missing Link in Computer Security
Is your computer really secure? If you have antivirus software, malware scanners and a firewall, you might think you're safe from hackers, crackers and identity thieves. But chances are, you're missing one critical piece of the security puzzle. Read ...
Bob Rankin: Should I Buy a Netbook, Ultrabook or a Tablet?
My old laptop finally died, and I need to replace it with something lighter and very portable. But it still needs to be powerful enough to handle email, web and typical office software. For someone with my requirements, would you suggest a netbook, a...
Bob Rankin: Send a Fax From Your Computer
Sending a fax from your computer is a convenient, money-saving way to communicate with people who cannot receive email, or insist on paper documents. There are several ways to send a fax from your computer, even if you don't have a fax machine. Here'...