Symptoms of Malware Infection

If you manage or own a company, chances are you or your employees are using computers. At some point you or your employees will use the internet - for work purposes, for lunch-time browsing, or even when supposed to be working.  Using the internet makes your IT security more vulnerable to many hackers and viruses.

It is important to recognize and understand when your computer systems are under attack from malware and other viruses.  But what are the symptoms of malware infection?  How can you find out if your computer or worse your entire network is infected?  Here are a few warning signs and symptoms of malware infection.

You are unknowingly sending out spam through emails and social media

Are your friends telling you that you've been sending them random emails with pretty sketchy links?  Or are you sending them links through facebook or twitter or other social media platforms?  Then you might be a victim of spyware.  This may be caused from setting weak passwords or even forgetting to log out of them.

Pop-ups and Toolbars

Pop-Ups are easy signs that your computer is infected with malware.  If you see a pop-up ad it is likely that you may have clicked on a suspicious page, answered a service or an ad. When pop-ups appear, do not click on their content.  Close them and immediately run your anti-malware software to remove the malware.

How often do you download free applications over the internet?  Often, free application software comes with malware.  Did your default web browser change? Did your default search engine change?  What about your toolbar in your web browser?  Many times hidden in the fine print of these free software options are details of how it will change these settings. Be cautious when seeing these links for free software and download now. Sometimes it is best to avoid downloading altogether. Contact your IT company to ensure any program you download is safe.

Blue Screen of Death

Does your computer crash frequently? That could be a sign of a technical problem or even worse a malware infection. Consult your IT service provider when this occurs to ensure the problem isn't that you haven't installed the latest drivers for your device or other technical problems with your PC. If it isn't anything wrong with your PC then your computer may be infected by malware.  Consult with your IT provider anytime this occurs to ensure the security of your computer systems.

Computer running slow

This is one of the most common symptoms.  Is it taking an unusually long time to start up or run any programs? You may be infected with a virus.  It is best not to immediately assume you have a virus just because your computer is running slow.  Do a quick check to see if you might actually be running out of RAM.  For windows, open your task manager by pressing and holding down Ctrl-Alt-DEL and go to the performance tab and check how many gigabytes of RAM you are using under the memory section.  You may also be running out of space on your hard drive or have damaged hardware. If that is not the problem then it's likely a virus.

Programs are shutting down randomly

Are you working on a program and it randomly closes?  Does the program start when you never told it to start? That can be a sign that your PC is infected with malware.

As a manager or business owner it is important that you know and recognize the symptoms of malware infection on your PCs.  It is important for your IT security to train your employees to recognize these symptoms and to have a plan and procedures in place for how to help resolve the situation as soon as possible.  We recommend performing regular malware scans on all of your PCs even if the symptoms aren't showing in order to ensure the data and systems are secure.

To learn more about malware and IT security contact Seras here or by calling 803.233.9216.

PC have a Fever?

Just about everyone is aware of virus and malware protection, but what about potential damage to hardware in your PC that could easily be avoided?  At Seras, we see computers everyday that are tucked under desks next to small heaters, full of dust, or not cooling properly.

Even though most PC operating systems have "thermal shutdown" procedures, these are often not calibrated and if they malfunction you could lose everything.  As the temperature of the PC rises, without proper cooling from the fan, it can get hot enough to melt core components or even cause a fire.  Chron.com provides more details about potential hardware damage here.

How can I prevent overheating?

Clean your PC

Most PCs have several fans, which are the primary source for keeping the PC cool.  Dirt, dust, pet hair, and other contaminants are sucked in by the fans and then get clogged and built-up within the PC.  The easiest way to clean them is to take the unit outside and remove the case.  Then use a compressed air canister to blow them out.

Upgrade the main CPU cooling fan or add a case fan

Stock fans are not nearly as efficient as aftermarket fans, which will get your PC temperature down to below manufacturer specifications.  The fans are relatively inexpensive and can be replaced quickly and easily.

Case fans are more external and work in addition to the other fans to help keep air moving through the PC.

Change the location of your PC

The easiest solution is often to move the PC to a location that is lest susceptible to dirt and dust and provides more open air flow for the unit.

Treat or replace power supplies

Power supply modules have their own fans and it is much cheaper to simply replace the entire power supply than to attempt to replace it's fan.

There are several additional options for higher-end PCs that include water-cooling kits, additional component fans, phase change units, and temperature/humidity controlled facilities.  A Seras professional will be happy to answer any additional questions related to cooling servers and high-end PCs.

Can You Spot Your Hidden IT Risks?

We all know about risks.  We all have experienced risks in our lives.  The decisions we make as a business owner all have risks.  Some risks aren't always that obvious.

That is the case when it comes to IT.  IT is a big part of your business. It helps your business move forward, grow and run efficiently. However, with technology comes some great risks. IT risks aren't always obvious. They are often hidden and hard to spot.

In order to protect your systems and technology from those hidden IT risks then you need to have a plan in place and take actionable steps towards mitigating those risks. You also need a team of qualified individuals who can help. So what are some of those hidden IT risks?

The folks at Techopedia recently put out a great article entitled Your IT's Risks are Hidden - Can you Spot Them? I would encourage you to check out that article written by Brent Whitfield.  They detail several hidden IT risks and actionable steps for you to take in order for you to protect your businesses technology.

We would love to talk to you about ways that we can help protect your company from these and even more IT risks. Contact us today at 803.233.9216 or through our contact page.

Six IT Myths that hold your business back

Merriam-Webster defines a myth as "an idea or story that is believed by many people but is not true." There are many myths out there such as: lightning won't strike the same place twice or people only use 10% of their brain.  In the business world, there are several IT myths that are often misunderstood by many managers.

We are going to breakdown six popular IT myths that are holding your business back and keeping it from growing, from gaining a competitive edge and completely ruining your productivity. Many of these myths tie into each other. At Seras we believe that once you see these IT myths for what they are, ideas that are believed to be true but are false, and you begin to act upon this new knowledge that your business will grow and succeed. We believe your productivity will increase and your frustration level will decrease.

IT Myths:

Myth #1 We don't need regular maintenance or monitoring

This is a very common IT myth. Usually this myth is believed by business owners who haven't yet encountered a major IT disaster. We don't have that many computers and we don't really use that much technology.

Computer systems are complex and they need regular updates and maintenance to help them to function properly. The only way to keep competitive in your field is to ensure that you and your employees are current and up-to-date with their computer systems. You need computer systems that are secure, reliable and fast. In order to do that, you need regular maintenance and monitoring. Here are a few areas that need to be monitored and managed monthly and even more so, weekly:

Security Patches

Firewall updates and monitoring

Backup testing

Malware and Spyware protection

Hardware monitoring

System optimizations

Myth #2 IT Support is Reactive

As we see from the first of the IT myths, IT support needs to be managed and monitored on a routine basis.  The common belief is that I don't need IT support unless something has gone wrong.

Yes, you do need IT support if something has gone wrong. IT companies need to be reactive towards issues that come up. However, more important than being reactive, an IT company needs to be proactive in protecting your business from encountering these issues. By waiting until a problem occurs businesses will lose time, productivity and money. Waiting until you have an issue is simply a costly and inefficient way to run a business. If the issue you are having affects only one employee then you lose that employees productivity for that time and are still paying for them to work. If the issue affects more than one employee then... well, you get the picture.

Reacting is not a strategy, being proactive is. Begin to develop a proactive IT strategy with an IT company which will help assess your current situation, forecast for future problems and actively seek out ways to prevent these issues from occurring. When unexpected issues do come and you need someone to react to an issue that has occurred then your IT company will be able to help with this. Seras, by the way guarantees the fastest response times in the Columbia, SC area.

Myth #3 Anyone who is tech savvy can handle anything that comes up

You won't believe how often we hear something along this line when talking with business owners. I know my way around a computer. Our accountant's boyfriend is a young guy who is pretty good with technology. We've heard it all.

While you may be able to get by and survive for a little while with those solutions. That can only last so long and what wasted expenses have incurred? With lack of knowledge and experience leads to much trial and error. With much trial and error comes a lot of wasted time. If you're handling your own IT work, then who is doing your job? If you're wasting your time trying to resolve an issue that is over your head then who is managing your business? There are tons of dangers and risks with handling your IT needs on your own, especially if you only know a thing or two about computers. You put your business at risk of data loss, security breaches and costly computer replacements. If you have a friend or a friend of a co-worker who is tech savvy then how invested are they in doing the job right? How invested are they in accomplishing your business goals? If your accountant's boyfriend is helping you with your IT, then what happens when your accountant leaves?

Having an outsourced IT company handle your IT needs is not only the right way to do it, it's the best way. An IT company, like Seras, is trained and has the knowledge it takes to handle complex issues. Don't fall into the supposed cheap trap of relying on a tech savvy person to handle these complex issues. Rely on a qualified company with trained technicians who can handle this without you having to worry.

Myth #4 An Internal IT Department is better than outsourcing to a Managed Services Company

Many companies believe in one of the most believable of the IT myths: that the solution to their IT needs is to create their own IT Department. We discussed this topic a few weeks ago here about why outsourcing to a Managed Services Company is the right choice. Here are just a few reasons (not all) why outsourcing your IT needs is the right choice:

Full-Time IT people are expensive and actually cost more than outsourcing

High cost of turnover

Difficulty for you to hire and evaluate the staff

Added responsibility on you to manage IT Department

Your time spent hiring, training, replacing, re-training new IT staff

Myth #5 We use an IT company already; It's too difficult to switch and all IT companies are all just the same anyways

This is another one of the most popular IT myths that we hear. There is no such thing as an easy transition in business. There will be some form of discomfort involved with any change. It doesn't have to be that difficult or painful. Don't let short term discomforts affect your long-term strategy. Doing that will only hurt your business.

Not all IT companies are the same. The right IT company will take the time to analyze your current processes, will listen to what your goals are and will develop a plan for transitioning you to a substantially more efficient IT system. The right provider will establish a long-term plan for your IT needs that will help maximize the productivity of your business. At Seras we've been able to positively transition some of our clients from being unhappy with their old IT provider to being 100% satisfied with us.

The right IT company will make sure the process of switching IT support providers as painless as possible.

Myth #6 IT companies only care about billable hours

As with many consultant and service companies, IT companies typically bill at an hourly rate. There may be a few IT companies that care only about billable hours. However, you will find that most IT companies make an effort to make sure that both parties are clear and in agreement about the scope of a project. The IT Company is more concerned about a long-term partnership with you rather than quickly maximizing billable hours. This is in the interest of both you and the IT company's best interest. At Seras, we want to build a strong and long standing relationship.

Seras is the right choice. Contact us today and find out why we are not only the right choice but the best choice!

7 Tips for IT Device Management

Do your computers and other IT devices always seem to fail during the last few minutes before a critical deadline?  Do they quickly become frustrating due to speed, features, performance, compatibility, or appearance?  Here are some ways to keep you and your staff running smoothly and spend less time worrying about IT problems.

Physically Protect your Investment in IT Devices

Laptops, tablets, phones, and other IT devices are becoming more and more expensive.  Many of these devices are used in a variety of work environments - some are used within a strict area such as in exam rooms 4, 5, and 6 in a doctor's office.  Others, however, may visit construction sites across three states in one single day and be exposed to concrete and sheet rock dust, water and other liquids, bouncing or dropping, or dirt and grime in general.

Evaluate the specific users, uses, and environments in which each IT product will be used and purchase a protective case that will exceed each individual set of requirements.  Why put a pretty, sleek case on an IPad for a foreman that is visiting rough environments or a bulky, heavy case on a tablet or laptop that is only used in a physician's office?

Update Operating Systems and other Important Programs

Hackers and their viruses are similar to the flu, however they are a year-round problem.  They are always upgrading, learning, and finding ways to beat the latest and greatest versions of anti-malware programs.  To protect your investment in IT equipment not only must you keep your operating system updated, such as performing basic MS Windows Security Updates, but you must keep your end-point malware and virus protection programs up to date.

In yet another example, lets assume that protection is in place.  Often, a new software program is purchased and loaded onto a network for a small business.  At the last minute, one or two IT devices are found that are "not compatible" with the new software.  Furthermore, it is discovered that the users of these devices were not performing even the most basic software updates to their operating systems.  At this point, the initial software upload becomes a multi-day install that sparks last minute employee education.

Keep Your Staff Informed and Trained

Performance, preservation, and maintenance of your IT equipment should be a staple of your company culture - as important as maintaining a clean facility or following dress codes.  Employees do not need to be experts to understand some of the basics - password management, upgrades and basic virus protection, and the risks of unsecured or potentially dangerous links or attachments.

Purchase the highest Quality IT Equipment that will meet your Requirements

Not every customer needs the latest and greatest, but many suffer from saving a few dollars on a lower-quality product.  Re-furbished PCs, knock-off tablets, and many other low-cost options are available for purchase.  In most cases, these products use low-quality hardware components and leave users disappointed with life-span and warranty services.

Upgrade before it is too late

Don't let your aging IT device leave you in a bind while on the road or working to meet a deadline.  At some point, all devices fail due to the number of components that keep them running.  IT products are constantly changing and big bulk suppliers are always offering big sales on various items.  Keep your eye on replacements and when the right value is found, make the purchase and upgrade before its too late.

Always have a Fallback Team for Support

Perhaps most important for business continuity is to have an affordable, reliable IT service provider that can provide a quick turnaround for problems that are not able to be resolved by in-house staff.  Seras prides itself on offering same day service in most cases, and guarantees 24 hour response to all service requests.  Furthermore, our management staff is available 24 hours a day to handle any request that our customers may have.

Seras can also provide routine support for all of your IT components along with staff training and services related to all of the prior tips noted above.  Click here to get started!

Scanning Benefits for your Business

As a business owner or manager one of your goals is to find opportunities to help your business enhance the security of your data, become more efficient and reduce operational costs. One opportunity for businesses to accomplish those goals is document scanning. Last week we discussed when is it time to start using a document scanning service. This week we will discuss why you should start using a document scanning service. Here are some of the scanning benefits that your company can discover:

Scanning Benefit # 1: Additional Office Space

When you take advantage of document scanning services you reduce the amount of wasted space in your office. Space that is often wasted in an office are tons of file cabinets, excess boxes and desk space. Not only do you have more room to work but you provide more space for other office equipment and supplies that you need in your office.

Scanning benefits that frees up office space can help businesses in this regard:

Re-use office space for staff to focus on more profitable, core business activities

Additional workstations and people, avoiding costly office moves due to lack of space

Move to a smaller location and benefit from lower facility and housekeeping costs

Helps to de-clutter your office space which helps reduce stress on you and your employees

Employees can enjoy their new office space and be more productive - A cleaner office boosts employee morale

Scanning Benefit #2: Enhanced Security

Data security is at the top of the goals and concerns for all business owners and managers. There is a much larger risk of paper documents being damaged, stolen or lost through fire and flood. With digital file management comes control and reduced risk. Manage access and exceed your security goals - should the housekeeping staff have access to your company, employee, and client files? Should employees have access to payroll and benefit information? Electronic records allow for simple-to-use security measures that are easily managed.

Improved security, peace of mind and data protection compliance

Scanned documents can be securely stored in a document management system which has security requirements and access to be available only at certain user or role levels

Scanned documents can be regularly backed up

Scanned documents will remain in the same pristine condition from the time they are scanned, as opposed to paper documents where the quality of the document is reduced over time and wear occurs

Permanently capture older, damaged documents with crystal clarity and protect important files form weather damage and theft - with records properly stored and backed up, you can eliminate the worry of flood, fire or other damage to stored paper files.

Scanning Benefit #3: Increased Efficiency

Once your files are scanned, you will be able to retrieve files faster, reduce workflow downtime, and provide enhanced customer service. With patient or client files at your fingertips, there is no longer a need to send staff into storage rooms, attics, basements, storage providers or to storage units looking for files.

Scanning documents provides the opportunity to create and complete many levels of workflow efficiency by allowing multiple-user access to files or folders and by giving employees the ability to fit those documents into appropriate and relevant record keeping functions. Whether you need 24/7 access to all files or occasional access to some files, scanning and organizing your documents in an electronic medium is faster and more efficient than sorting boxes full of papers.

Scanning Benefit #4: Reduced Operational Costs

Maximize storage space, eliminate file retrieval down-time and costly records storage services. By having your files stored digitally in-house, you can greatly reduce the time and man-power it takes to locate files.  Less work hours need to be spent searching for files and scavenging through boxes and file cabinets.

Scanning Benefit #5: Enhanced Company Image

If a vendor, associate, or customer requests a document from a closed file, how long does it take you to get it to them?  In most cases where an outsourced storage service is used, it takes about three days.  Scanning services allow you to send requested documents within minutes, thus enhancing the image of your company in the eyes of the requestor.  Going paperless boosts productivity and boosts a company's responsiveness toward requests from their clients/customers.  Moving to a document scanning service also gives companies an edge over their competition.

Additionally, Seras provides disks with your company logo and any other requested labeling information that can be provided to your customers, vendors, or associates with closing letters or other correspondence.  This not only enhances a company's image, but reduces call backs for requesting old files.

The benefits that a company who moves to using a document scanning service can enjoy follow a path. With scanning, companies have the benefits of a cleaner office which helps boost employee morale, which helps produce a more efficient workplace, which reduces the operational costs and allows for an enhanced company image and security.

Click here to learn more about the document scanning services offered by Seras.