TweakHound

Computer stuff...

Security

How To Find The Best Anti-Virus For You

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windows securityAnti-virus software is not a security panacea. Additionally, IMHO there is no “best” anti-virus.
Here are some links to help you find what is best for you.
AV-Comparatives – Real-World Protection Tests
Virus Bulletin – Latest Comparative
PC Mag – The Best Antivirus for 2013

Personally, I would not pay for an AV solution as I think the free versions of these programs are good enough. (I am NOT a security expert.)
If you want the full (pay-for) versions there are often deals that make these programs free after rebate.
Try the usual deal sites, Techbargains, or Newegg.

See also:
Why Antivirus Software Isn’t Enough To Fend Off Attacks

Update For IE Flash Player For Windows 8

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windows securityIf you’re using Windows 8 or 8.1 there is a security update available via Windows Update.
Microsoft Security Advisory (2755801) – Update for Vulnerabilities in Adobe Flash Player in Internet Explorer
Update for Internet Explorer Flash Player for Windows 8 (KB2889543)
Update for Internet Explorer Flash Player for Windows 8 x64 (KB2889543)
Update for Internet Explorer Flash Player for Windows 8.1 (KB2889543)
Update for Internet Explorer Flash Player for Windows 8.1 for x64-based Systems (KB2889543)

Microsoft Digital Citizenship Infographics

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microsoft_Knight_shieldThis post dedicated to @thurrott. :mrgreen:
“Each infographic offers relevant statistics of current negative online behaviors and helpful tips for correcting and preventing them, offering one each for tweens, teens, and parents.”
I’m not a parent, teen, or tween so I can’t vouch for the helpfulness of this stuff.
I can say after looking at the infographics, every time Microsoft tries to do “cool” it equals FAIL.

Download one or all:
Is Your Teen a Good Digital Citizen parent infographic PDF.pdf
Bing_for_Schools_infographic.jpg
Student Body Language tween infographic PDF.pdf
The Naked Truth teen infographic PDF.pdf
Using Parental Controls survey results infographic PDF.pdf

Time To Run Windows Update

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windows securityAn update has been re-released for XP and Vista Users:
Microsoft Security Bulletin MS13-057 – Critical Vulnerability in Windows Media Format Runtime Could Allow Remote Code Execution (2847883)
“The rereleased updates address an application compatibility issue in which WMV encoded video could fail to properly render during playback. Customers should install the rereleased updates.”

There is also an update available for Office 2010 that I’ve not seen appear via Windows Update.
You can wait for it to appear or download and install it manually:
See this page for downloads and info – Description of the Office 2010 update: August 27, 2013
“Microsoft has released an update for Microsoft Office 2010. This update fixes some issues that occur when you install Service Pack 2 (SP2) for Office 2010. Additionally, this update contains stability and performance improvements.“