Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts, making them far more resistant to hacking. However, if you lose access to your 2FA, such as through a lost phone or a misplaced physical key, you might find yourself locked out of your own accounts. This guide will walk you through practical steps to protect yourself from that scenario.

Print and Store Backup Codes

When setting up 2FA, most services provide backup codes as a safety net. These codes can help you regain access if you lose your primary 2FA method. Here’s how to make the most of them:

1. Print the codes. Don’t just screenshot them or save them on your device; print them out and keep them in a safe location such as a fireproof safe or a secure drawer at home.
2. Don’t store them digitally. Avoid saving backup codes as a PDF or text file on your primary device. If you lose access to that device, you’ll also lose access to the codes. Keep them offline for added security.

By taking the time to store your backup codes safely, you’re creating a reliable fallback plan.

Use a Reputable Authentication App with Cloud Backup

Choosing the right authentication app can make a big difference in preventing lockouts. Popular options such as Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, and Authy offer varying features, so pick one that suits your needs.

1. Select a reputable app. Stick to well-known and trusted apps that have good security practices.
2. Enable cloud backup. Some apps, such as Authy, allow you to back up your 2FA credentials to the cloud. This feature can be a lifesaver if your device is lost or damaged.
3. Install the app on multiple devices. Add the app to a secondary device, such as a tablet or an old smartphone. Just make sure all devices are secured with a PIN code or password to keep your accounts safe.

By having your 2FA credentials accessible on more than one device, you significantly reduce the risk of being locked out.

What to Do If You Lose 2FA Access

Even with the best precautions, accidents happen. If you lose access to your 2FA device or key, here’s what you can do:

1. Use your backup codes. This is the fastest and most reliable way to regain access. Enter one of your stored codes to log in and reset your 2FA method.
2. Check if one of your devices is still logged in. Sometimes, you might have an existing session open on another device. Use this opportunity to update your 2FA settings or generate new backup codes.
3. Contact the service provider. Many online services have account recovery processes. Be prepared to provide proof of identity, such as a government-issued ID or answering security questions.

Need Help? We’re Here for You

Two-factor authentication is an essential security measure but requires careful management to avoid unnecessary headaches. While 2FA might occasionally lock you out, it also keeps the bad guys out, a trade-off that’s worth it. You don’t know how many hacks it’s already protected you from, and, in most cases, losing 2FA access is recoverable.

It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind. If you’re unsure about setting up or maintaining your 2FA, let us handle it for you. Contact us today at 507-320-5921 to ensure your accounts stay secure and accessible.

Downloading software from the internet might seem simple, but it can sometimes feel like navigating a minefield. Many websites, even seemingly legitimate ones, feature fake download buttons designed to trick you into downloading malware or other unwanted programs. Let’s explore how to recognize these deceptive buttons and keep your computer safe.

Why Do Fake Buttons Appear on Legitimate Websites?

You’re probably wondering, “Why would a trustworthy website have fake download buttons?” The answer lies in online advertising. Many publishers rely on ads to make money. Unfortunately, they often have little to no control over the content of these ads. Advertisers may sneak in fake banners disguised as download buttons to mislead visitors. This practice can make even a reputable website feel unsafe.

Why Are Fake Download Buttons Dangerous?

Clicking a fake download button can lead to serious consequences. Instead of getting the application you need, you might end up downloading malware, which can:

• Steal your personal information.
• Slow down your computer.
• Open the door for even more harmful software.

It’s not just about annoyance; it’s about protecting your privacy and security.

How to Spot Fake Download Buttons

Thankfully, there are a few telltale signs that can help you distinguish real download links from fake ones.

Look for an “Advertisement” Header

Many fake buttons are part of advertisements. Check for an “Advertisement” header near the button or a small “X” to close the ad. This is a strong indicator that what you’re seeing isn’t a genuine download link.

Hover Over the Button

Before clicking, hover your mouse over the button. In most browsers, you’ll see the destination URL in the status bar at the bottom of the window. If the link doesn’t match the site you’re trying to download from, don’t click it.

Avoid Giant Buttons

Legitimate websites rarely use oversized, flashy buttons to prompt downloads. Instead, they often provide a plain-text link that might say something like “Download now” or “Download [Program Name].” If it looks too good to be true, it probably is.

Use an Ad Blocker

Many fake download buttons are embedded in ads, which can be blocked with a browser-based ad blocker. These tools can significantly reduce website clutter and make finding the actual download link easier. If you’re not sure how to install an ad blocker, we’d be happy to help.

What to Do If You’ve Downloaded Malware

If you think you’ve accidentally clicked a fake download button and your computer is acting strange, don’t panic. Give us a call at 507-320-5921. We can help you remove any unwanted programs and get your computer back to running smoothly. And if you need assistance setting up an ad blocker, we’re here for that too.

Most people don’t expect their computers to have a distinct smell, but sometimes they do. A weird smell coming from your computer is often more than just an annoyance; it can give you valuable clues about potential problems lurking inside. Let’s dive into what these smells mean and why you should pay attention to them.

Burning Smell

A burning smell coming from your computer is almost always a sign of trouble. It could be caused by:

• Overheating hardware. Components such as the motherboard, graphics card, or power supply may be overheating and burning.
• Manufacturing defects. Faulty components might be melting or burning due to improper design.

If you notice a burning smell, shut down your computer immediately, unplug it, and do not attempt to turn it back on. Continuing to use it could damage the hardware further or even cause a fire. This problem is best handled by a professional technician who can safely diagnose and fix the issue.

Nail Polish Remover Smell

A smell similar to nail polish remover usually indicates a compromised lithium battery. This is a serious issue that can lead to:

• Swelling batteries. Check for signs such as bulging or curved surfaces and panels coming apart.
• Fire risks. Lithium batteries can ignite and burn intensely when damaged.

If you suspect the battery is compromised, do not attempt to open the computer yourself. Get it inspected and repaired as soon as possible. A swelling lithium battery is not something to take lightly.

Ozone (Electrical) Smell

The pungent smell of ozone, reminiscent of chlorine bleach, often signals electrical issues. This could be caused by:

• Loose plugs. Connections inside or outside the computer may not be secure.
• Arcing electricity. Electrical components, especially in the power supply, could be sparking or malfunctioning.

An ozone smell means there’s a risk of electrical damage or fire. Power down your computer, unplug it, and have it checked by a professional.

Cigarette Smell

If your computer smells like cigarettes, it’s likely due to:

• Tar buildup. Tar and other particles from smoke are drawn into the computer by cooling fans and settle on internal components.
• Dust and debris. The combination of smoke, dust, and hair can create a strong odor over time.

Cleaning a smoker’s computer isn’t just about improving the smell; tar buildup can also clog fans and reduce cooling efficiency. This job requires disassembling the computer and thoroughly cleaning the components, which is best left to a technician.

“New Computer” Smell

A new computer smell is usually not a cause for concern. It’s often due to:

• Manufacturing solvents – residues from the production process.
• Plastics gassing out – new materials releasing faint odors as they settle, just like a new car does.

If the smell is pleasant and doesn’t resemble burning, it’s perfectly normal. However, get it checked out if it transitions into a burning smell.

Smells from your computer can be more than just a curiosity; they’re often a warning sign of underlying problems.

If you’ve noticed any strange smells coming from your computer, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Contact us today at 507-320-5921, and we’ll diagnose and fix the issue quickly and safely!

Antivirus software has been a standard recommendation for computer users for decades. But in 2025, with advancements in built-in protection, you might wonder if you still need antivirus software. Let’s break it down together and see what makes sense for your home computer setup.

The Threat Landscape: What Are We Up Against?

Before diving into specific antivirus programs, let’s take a look at the types of threats lurking out there. It’s more than just old-fashioned viruses these days:

1. Viruses and malware. These are the classic threats that most people think of. Malware includes everything from traditional viruses that replicate to malicious software that can steal your data or even lock you out of your own files (such as ransomware).
2. Phishing and scam websites. Phishing attacks trick you into giving away personal information such as passwords or credit card numbers by pretending to be trustworthy sites or emails. Antivirus software often helps by blocking these sites.
   
   
3. Spyware and keyloggers. Spyware hides in the background, watching what you do. Keyloggers are even sneakier, keeping track of what you type, which can put your passwords and sensitive information at risk.
   
   
4. Zero-day threats and exploits. These threats take advantage of security holes in software that the developers haven’t yet patched. Good security software can help catch these vulnerabilities before they become a major problem.
   

Windows Defender vs. Commercial Antivirus: What Should You Choose?

Now that we know what we’re up against, the next question is: Is the built-in Windows Defender enough, or should you invest in a commercial antivirus program? Let’s compare.

Windows Defender: The Built-In Protector

Windows Defender, which comes free with Windows, has come a long way. It’s built right into your computer and runs in the background without much fuss. Here are the benefits:

• No extra cost. It comes with Windows, so you don’t need to pay extra.
• Simple and minimal. It’s easy to use, with no confusing pop-ups or renewal reminders.
• Integrated protection. Because Microsoft makes it, it fits in seamlessly with your system and is regularly updated.

However, Windows Defender isn’t without its limits. While it’s a solid basic defense, it might fall short when it comes to more advanced threats, such as sophisticated phishing scams or newer forms of malware that commercial packages catch sooner.

Commercial Antivirus: Extra Security, Extra Features

Commercial internet security packages often offer more comprehensive protection. Here’s what they bring to the table:

• Advanced threat detection. These programs usually have more advanced tools for detecting newer threats, including AI-based detection.
• Additional features. Many offer extra features, such as password managers, VPNs for privacy, and parental controls, which can be handy for families.
• Better phishing protection. They tend to excel in blocking fake websites that try to steal your personal information.

Of course, these extras come at a price. You need to pay for a yearly subscription, and they can sometimes slow your computer down a bit more than Windows Defender.

What Protection Do You Really Need?

The right level of protection depends on how you use your computer. Let’s look at a few typical situations:

• Casual browsers and email users. If you mainly use your computer for Web browsing, emailing, and light activities, Windows Defender might be enough. It offers decent security for day-to-day use, especially if you already practice safe habits such as not clicking on suspicious links.

• Families and shared computers. If you have kids or multiple people using the same computer, a commercial antivirus might be a better choice. Additional protection and parental controls can add peace of mind, particularly if younger family members are clicking on things they shouldn’t.

• Heavy online shoppers and work-from-home users. If you shop online frequently, handle sensitive work information, or store a lot of important data on your computer, the extra security features of a commercial antivirus package might be worthwhile. They tend to have more sophisticated threat detection and privacy tools that can help protect your information.
  

Final Thoughts: Do You Still Need Antivirus Software These Days?

Antivirus software is still important, even with built-in protection such as Windows Defender. The type of antivirus you need depends mainly on how you use your computer and how much peace of mind you want. Windows Defender is great for basic protection, but if you want more features or stronger defenses, a commercial package could be worth the investment.

And if you’re unsure or need a little help figuring it out, that’s what we’re here for. Whether it’s installing the right protection or getting rid of a pesky virus, give us a call at 507-320-5921.

We’re ready to help keep you and your computer safe.

Imagine you receive a message from a friend asking for a little help. They say they are trying to get back into their Facebook account, and they need a special login code that Facebook will send to a trusted friend.

It sounds simple, right? You want to help your friend out, but here’s the catch: the code they are asking for is actually the key to your account, not theirs. Let’s dive into how this scam works and how you can protect yourself.

How does this Facebook scam work?

A friend asking for help

The scam usually starts with a message from someone on your friend list. It could look like they need help recovering their Facebook account or logging in on a new device. They tell you that Facebook will send a verification code to their friends, and they need you to share that code with them.

The message comes from someone you know, and they’re asking for help. It seems harmless, maybe even urgent, and who wouldn’t want to help out a friend in need?

The real danger behind the code

The big problem is that the requested code isn’t meant for their account. It’s the code to access your Facebook account. When Facebook sees someone trying to log in from an unfamiliar location or device, it sends a code to the account owner to confirm that it’s really them trying to log in. This code could be sent via text or email, as part of Facebook’s two-factor authentication process.

The scammer posing as your friend is actually trying to get into your Facebook account by tricking you into giving them this code.

Where it gets even trickier

This scam can feel especially convincing for a couple of reasons. First, the person reaching out might be using a fake account that looks exactly like your friend’s, with the same name and profile picture. However, in many cases, the scammer might actually be using your real friend’s account. They managed to compromise your friend’s account first, and now they are using it to trick more people – like you. It’s a chain reaction, where each hacked account leads to more and more victims.

How to protect yourself from this scam

Verify before you act

If a friend messages you asking for a code to help them recover their account, take a moment to verify things first. Don’t feel rushed. Scammers often rely on creating a sense of urgency. Call your friend directly or message them on another platform to confirm that it’s really them.

Never share login codes

Remember, any code that Facebook sends to you is meant to protect your account. It should never be shared with anyone, not even friends. If someone asks for a code sent to you, it’s a red flag.

Look out for cloned accounts

If you receive an unusual request from a friend, check their profile. Look at their recent posts, photos, or activity. If anything feels off or incomplete, it could be a fake account designed to look like your friend.

What to do if you fall victim to the scam

If you’ve already shared a code and suspect someone might have accessed your Facebook account, here are the steps you should take immediately:

• Change your password. Update your Facebook password as soon as possible. Make it something unique and hard to guess.
• Enable two-factor authentication. This adds another layer of security to your account. You can set it up so that login attempts require a code from your phone.
• Report the incident. Inform Facebook that your account may have been compromised. They can help secure your account and investigate further.

We’re here to help keep you safe online

Navigating the internet can be tricky, and scams like this are getting more sophisticated every day. If you need help securing your devices, give us a call. We’re here to look after you and make sure your online experience stays as trouble-free as possible.

Stay alert, stay safe

Remember, a little bit of caution can go a long way towards keeping your accounts and personal information safe. If you’re ever in doubt about a message or request, it’s always better to double-check. Scammers count on us to act quickly without thinking things through. Let’s not give them the chance.

We’re always just a phone call away if you need help or advice. Stay safe out there!

Have you ever seen a video of a celebrity endorsing a new investment or giving away free tickets that seemed too good to be true? You might be witnessing a deepfake AI scam. These scams are becoming more and more convincing, leveraging advanced technology to deceive unsuspecting people.

In this article, we’re going to look at how these scams work, what deepfakes are, and, most importantly, how you can protect yourself.

Celebrities endorsing shady products? It could be a scam

Hackers have been creating videos featuring famous celebrities promoting shady products or giveaways. Maybe it’s an actor offering “exclusive cryptocurrency opportunities” or a pop star announcing “free concert tickets” if you click a link. These scenarios can look and sound incredibly real, but they are often scams designed to trick you.

Hackers are banking on the fact that you trust your favorite celebrities. They use that trust to get you to act against your best interest, such as like entering personal details or making payments. It’s incredibly easy to fall for it, but with a little awareness, you can stay one step ahead.

What are deepfakes?

You might be wondering, “What exactly is a deepfake?” A deepfake is a video or audio clip where artificial intelligence (AI) is used to convincingly replicate a person . In the context of scams, this often means creating a realistic version of a celebrity’s face or voice to deceive viewers.

Why are deepfakes so convincing?

The key reason deepfakes of celebrities are so convincing is the sheer amount of source material available. Celebrities are everywhere – movies, talk shows, podcasts, social media – and all of that is fuel for deepfake AI. The AI studies their facial expressions, voice tone, and movements, and then recreates them nearly perfectly. This level of accuracy makes it extremely difficult to determine whether a video is real or fake just by watching it.

How to spot a deepfake scam

Spotting a deepfake isn’t always easy, but there are signs you can look for to protect yourself.

• Check the account. Does the account posting the video look legitimate? Often, scammers will use usernames that are very close to the real celebrity’s name but with subtle variations, such as an extra letter or number.
• Verify on official channels. Head over to the celebrity’s known real social media accounts. Are they promoting this product or giveaway on their official platforms? If a deepfake video claims that Taylor Swift is endorsing a new product, yet there’s no mention on her verified pages, it’s a red flag, and it’s worth taking a moment to check.
• Look closely at the video. Deepfake technology is very advanced, but it’s not perfect. You might notice odd glitches, such as like unnatural blinking, awkward body movements, hands that seem to disappear, or slightly off voice patterns. These can be tell-tale signs that the video is fake.
• Does it fit the celebrity’s usual behavior? Ask yourself if the promotion makes sense for that celebrity. Would this person usually promote something such as a cryptocurrency or a random giveaway? If it feels off-brand, it probably is.

Deepfakes are getting better, so stay vigilant

The truth is that deepfakes are getting more convincing by the day. It’s becoming increasingly difficult to distinguish between what’s real and what’s fake. That’s why it’s essential not to trust videos of celebrities blindly, even if they appear authentic. Scammers thrive on impulse reactions, so if something seems too good to be true, take a step back and think it through.

Awareness is your biggest weapon against these scams, so please share this information with friends and family who might need to be made aware of how far this technology has come.

Think you might have been scammed?

If you think you might have fallen victim to a deepfake scam, especially if you’ve been asked to install software or allow access to your computer, don’t panic. Give us a call.

We’re here to help assess the situation and take steps to keep you secure. Scams such as these are becoming more common, but with the right support, you can minimize the impact and avoid falling victim again.

Conclusion

Deepfake AI celebrity scams are a modern threat, using the faces and voices we know and trust to pull us into traps. But remember, staying alert and questioning anything that feels out of place can go a long way to keeping you safe. And if you need any help, we’re just a call away. Dial 507-320-5921 to reach us.

Have you ever received a terrifying email claiming someone has hacked your computer, watched you through your webcam, and gathered your personal files? If so, you’re not alone. These types of scam emails are becoming more common and are designed to frighten you into paying up. Let’s take a closer look at how this scam works and why you shouldn’t worry.

“Your computer has been hacked!” – what the email says

The first thing you need to know is that this email is designed to scare you. It will often claim that your computer has been hacked, and that someone has gained access to all your files, messages, and even emails. To make things even more chilling, it might say that they’ve been watching you through your webcam.

This message is all about creating panic. The scammers want you to feel vulnerable and out of control, which makes you more likely to meet their demands. But before you react, remember that this is all just a tactic, a very common trick to prey on fear.

The cryptocurrency demand

These scam emails often end with a demand for cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin, in exchange for not releasing your so-called “private” information. They’ll give you a short deadline to pay up, making it sound urgent and dire. They know that if they can pressure you into acting quickly, you might not have time to think logically or seek advice.

The scary part: mentioning your real password

One thing that makes these emails particularly unsettling is that they sometimes mention a password you recognize, perhaps even a password you still use! This can make the threat seem very real, but here’s what’s really going on.

Your email address and passwords may have been part of a public data leak at some point. Large-scale data breaches have affected platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and many others. When these breaches happen, hackers often get hold of millions of usernames and passwords. They then use this information to craft convincing emails to make their scam look legitimate.

It’s a good reminder of why using a unique password for every account is so important. Using a password manager can help with that, and adding two-factor authentication (2FA) adds another layer of security.

The good news: it’s just a scam

The good news is that this email is just a scam. No one has access to your computer, files, or webcam. These scammers are relying on scare tactics to pressure you into paying. The best thing you can do is not respond and delete the email.

The scammer has no control over your computer. They just hope you’ll be frightened enough to believe them and send money. By ignoring them, you take away all their power.

We’re here to help

We understand how stressful it can be to receive an email like this, especially when it mentions something as personal as your password. If you ever feel unsure or need help figuring out what’s real and what’s not, feel free to reach out to us. The only real concern here is that your password may have been leaked, and anything using that password should be changed.

We can help you set up a password manager and two-factor authentication to keep your accounts safe. Don’t be afraid to give us a call; we’re here to help you feel safer and more confident with your computer.

Call us today at 507-320-5921

Everybody loves a bargain, right? Especially when it comes to tech, prices can sometimes feel out of reach. These days, budget laptops are more affordable than ever. But (and it’s a big “but”) not all cheap laptops are created equal. While the price may be tempting, you don’t want to end up with a laptop that’s painfully slow, frustrating to use, and can’t do the job.

A quote from John Ruskin, a nineteenth-century poet, still rings true today:

“It’s unwise to pay too much, but it’s worse to pay too little. When you pay too much, you lose a little money — that is all. When you pay too little, you sometimes lose everything because the thing you bought was incapable of doing the thing it was bought to do.”

Now, let’s break down how to avoid that very situation and what to look for in a budget laptop so you can get a great deal and a laptop that works.

The Absolute Minimum Specs You Should Go For

Processor (CPU)

Your laptop’s processor is like the brain of the whole operation. It’s responsible for running programs and handling multitasking. Many budget laptops come with lower-end processors such as the Intel Celeron or AMD A-series, but these might leave you waiting and watching the dreaded spinning wheel.

Our recommendation: Look for at least an Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 processor. They offer a decent balance between performance and price, meaning you can get through your daily tasks without too much lag.

RAM (Memory)

If the processor is the brain, RAM is the short-term memory. It’s where your laptop stores data temporarily while running multiple applications. If there is not enough RAM, your laptop will feel stuck in slow motion whenever you try to do more than one thing at a time.

Our recommendation: Go for at least 16GB of RAM. While 8GB might seem sufficient on paper, you’ll quickly hit its limits when you have a few browser tabs open or are running programs in the background.

Storage (SSD vs. HDD)

Here’s where things get interesting. Many budget laptops come with traditional hard drives (HDDs), which can hold a lot of data but are painfully slow compared to solid-state drives (SSDs). An SSD makes everything faster, from booting up to opening applications.

Our recommendation: Even if it means sacrificing some storage space, go for an SSD. A 256 GB SSD is a great starting point and will make your laptop feel snappy and responsive.

Screen Size and Resolution

This is more about comfort and how you plan to use the laptop. A smaller 11-inch or 13-inch screen can save you some money, but if you’re going to be using it for long periods, you might want a larger 15-inch display.

Our recommendation: Aim for at least a 14-inch display with a resolution of 1920 × 1080 (Full HD). It’ll give you clearer text and sharper images without straining your eyes.

Don’t Forget About Battery Life

What good is a laptop if it can’t stay powered long enough to get through a movie or a work session? Budget laptops sometimes skimp on battery capacity to cut costs, meaning you could find yourself chained to a power outlet more often than you’d like.

Our recommendation: Look for a laptop with at least 8–10 hours of battery life. This should get you through a full day of light use without reaching for the charger.

The Pitfall of the Cheapest Option

It’s tempting to go for the absolute lowest price you can find, but as John Ruskin wisely pointed out, sometimes paying too little can cost you more in the long run. You might end up with a laptop that can’t handle the basics, forcing you to either buy another one or pay for upgrades sooner than you’d like. That’s where our advice comes in handy: it’s all about finding that sweet spot between affordability and usability.

Need Help Setting It Up?

Once you’ve found the perfect budget laptop, the next step is setting it up properly. If you’re unsure where to start with setting up your new laptop, transferring files, or ensuring it’s secure and ready to go, we’re here to help.

Our team can assist you with setup, software installation, and even ongoing support to make sure your laptop runs smoothly for years to come.

Feel free to reach out anytime. Call us at 507-320-5921.

We’ve all been there: You’re about to shut down your computer, and the dreaded “Windows is updating” screen pops up. Sometimes, it feels like it takes forever. But what happens if you interrupt that update, whether by turning off the computer or losing power? Let’s dive into what happens when a Windows update gets interrupted and how to avoid any headaches.

Why Windows updates are important

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, it’s helpful to understand that Windows updates are there to keep your computer running smoothly. They fix bugs, patch security issues, and occasionally introduce new features. But because updates often involve system files, interrupting them can cause a whole host of problems.

What happens if you interrupt the update?

Interrupting a Windows update can lead to a few different outcomes, ranging from minor issues to full-on data loss. Here’s a breakdown of the most common scenarios:

1. The update resumes normally. In some cases, Windows is smart enough to resume the update from where it left off. If you get lucky, your computer might continue the update process the next time you turn it on. This usually happens with more minor updates.
2. Your computer enters a “boot loop”. This is when your computer keeps restarting over and over without actually booting up. This can happen if an essential file isn’t fully updated before the interruption. Essentially, Windows is stuck trying to figure out what went wrong and keeps trying to fix itself by restarting.
3. You see the “blue screen of death” (BSOD). Yes, the infamous blue screen of death could make an appearance. This happens when the interrupted update causes a serious error, such as corrupting system files. The computer can’t operate normally, and you’re left staring at a blue screen with an error message.
4. Data loss or corrupted files. If you’re unlucky, interrupting an update might lead to file corruption. This can happen if Windows is interrupted while critical data is being written in the system files. In some cases, your personal files might even be affected, although this is less common.

Can you fix it yourself?

Sometimes, you can resolve the issue by restarting the computer or running Windows in Safe Mode. However, if the problem is more serious (such as a boot loop or blue screen), fixing it on your own can become complicated.

You might find guides online suggesting all sorts of solutions, such as using recovery tools, booting from a USB, or even reinstalling Windows. While these are valid options, they often require a decent amount of technical know-how and, if done incorrectly, can make things worse.

When to call in the experts

If you’ve interrupted a Windows update and are now facing any of the issues mentioned above, it’s best to get professional help. As a computer repair business, we deal with unfinished Windows updates all the time. We can help recover your data, get rid of the boot loop, and restore your system back to normal without you having to worry about losing anything important.

How we can help you

• Data recovery. If your files are at risk, we can take the necessary steps to back up and recover your important documents and photos before proceeding with any repairs.
• System recovery. We have the tools to repair or reinstall Windows without losing your data, so you can get back to using your computer as soon as possible.
• Prevent future issues. Once we fix the current problem, we can also help ensure your computer is set up to handle future updates more smoothly.

Final thoughts

Interrupting a Windows update might seem harmless at first, but it can lead to serious issues that could leave your computer unusable.

If you’re dealing with an unfinished update and don’t know what to do next, feel free to reach out. We’re here to help!

Call us at 507-320-5921.

We all know the saying, “If you aren’t paying for something, you’re the product.” It’s been floating around for a while and for a good reason. Like many other free platforms, Facebook makes money by using your data.

But what does that mean for you? It’s not just about seeing ads for the shoes you browsed last week; it’s about your personal information being used, tracked, and shared in ways you might not even be aware of.

The scary part? It’s not just the hackers or people you don’t want to reconnect with who are interested in your data; Facebook itself has a stake in it. And as the platform evolves, so do the privacy risks.

The Dangers of Oversharing: It’s Worse Than You Think

Oversharing online isn’t a new concern, but the reasons for limiting what you share have become much more serious. It’s no longer just about that undesirable person from high school liking your vacation photos in your swimsuit. The very platform you’re using, Facebook, could be abusing your information in ways that feel increasingly invasive.

Facebook has been in the spotlight for how it handles user data. Beyond the awkward social scenarios, your privacy settings could allow Facebook and its partners to learn more about you than you’d ever willingly share.

It’s time to take action and regain control over your personal information before it’s too late.

Stop Facebook from Targeting Ads Based on Your Online Activities

You might have noticed that Facebook seems to know a little too much about what you’re interested in. Ever wonder why? It’s because Facebook collects data not just from your activity on their platform but also from the other websites you visit, the apps you use, and even the products you buy in the real world.

This data is then used to target ads that are eerily specific to your tastes and habits.

To stop this from happening, here’s what you need to do.

1. Click on your profile picture in the top-right corner.
2. Go to Settings & Privacy.
3. Select Settings.
4. Navigate to Accounts Center.
5. Under Ad Preferences, go to the Manage Info tab.
6. Click on Activity information from ad partners and Review Setting.

By turning off this setting, you’re cutting off one of the main ways Facebook and its partners can track and target you with ads. It’s a small step, but it goes a long way towards protecting your privacy.

Old Photos, New Risks: Facebook’s Changing Privacy Defaults

If you’ve been on Facebook for over a decade, you probably have a treasure trove of memories in your profile. But here’s the catch: Facebook has a habit of changing its default settings, which means that some of those photos you once set to private might now be public.

To make sure your private photos stay that way, take a moment to go through your settings.

• Go to Settings & Privacy.
• Click on Privacy Checkup.
• Select Who can see what you share.
• Scroll down and review the items. Make sure everything you want to keep private is set to Friends or Only Me.

This step is especially important if you’ve been using Facebook for years. The platform’s evolving policies and settings can easily make once-private content available to the public without you realizing it.

Location Tracking: Do You Really Want Facebook to Know Where You Are?

Did you know that Facebook can track your location? This might seem harmless at first, but after all, it’s kind of nice when Facebook automatically tags your location in a post. But think about it: do you really want Facebook and its partners to know where you are at all times?

If that makes you uneasy, here’s how to turn off location tracking.

1. Go to Settings & Privacy.
2. Select Settings.
3. Scroll down to Location.
4. Under Location History, turn that off.

Disabling this feature prevents Facebook from logging your location data, adding another layer of privacy to your account.

Conclusion: Take Control of Your Privacy Before It’s Too Late

Facebook can be a great way to stay connected with friends and family, but it’s important to remember that the platform’s primary goal is to make money, and it does that by using your data. Whether it’s targeted ads, public photos, or location tracking, there are plenty of ways your information could be exposed.

Now is the time to review and update your Facebook privacy settings. Taking just a few minutes to adjust these settings can help you avoid having your personal information abused by Facebook and its partners. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Protect your privacy now.