Are You a Computer Abuser?

Avoid Making These All-Too-Familiar Mistakes
April 2010
by Blake Crone

Let's be honest, we don't always treat our computer as nicely as we should. We kick it, smack it, and more, in the hope that it will make it run faster or unfreeze. In the face of overwhelming frustration, it's only human! But to ensure the longevity and top performance of your computer, here are five computer cruelties you should always avoid:

  1. Physically Hitting Your Computer
    This is a pretty obvious one. It will never help to hit, kick, slap, throw, or otherwise abuse your PC. Not only can you hurt your hand with a particularly powerful punch, but you stand a good chance of damaging the computer's inner workings. This goes for monitors too. Next time you feel like punting your PC, take a couple of deep breaths and try Googling the specific issue you are having. Chances are someone else has encountered, and solved, your current problem.
  2. Turning Your PC Off with the Power Button
    It may be quicker than going through the regular Windows "Shut Down" process, but you shouldn't manually switch off your computer with the Power button. It can lead to problems with your hard drive as well as a host of problems with Windows. The only time you should ever resort to this is if your computer has completely seized up and using CTRL + ALT + DEL to restart is not working.
  3. Using Uncertified, Cracked or Illegally Downloaded Software
    Although it may be tempting to get that new shiny program for free by downloading a "cracked" version or installing pirated software, it may cost you more in the long run. Cybercriminals often use the promise of pirated software to infect your PC with viruses and spyware. And when that happens, you'll wish you had just paid the small fee for the certified software. Plus, software manufacturers, Internet Service Providers and legal officials are all keeping a close watch on copyright infringement – is saving a few bucks really worth it?
  4. Reselling Your Old PC Without Clearing Your Data
    Over the course of your computer's life, it saves and stores an extraordinary amount of data. Even the stuff you thought you deleted years ago can be recovered with special software and a little expertise. Basically, this means that if you are selling your old PC to a stranger, if they have the know-how they can recover your confidential and private information from your PC! It's embarrassing, sure, but also potentially dangerous. When you sell or donate your old computer, try clearing and shredding your files with Privacy Controls' secure delete function, which exceeds U.S. Government Military Standards.
  5. Opening Unknown Attachments
    Last but not least, never open attachments from unfamiliar sources. Scammers will send you email, sometimes posing as a reputable company, and direct you to open an attachment from them. For example, many scammers pose as Facebook representatives. They might claim that if you don't open the attachment, your account will be deleted. Don't fall for it! They are just trying to infect your PC with adware, spyware, or some other kind of vicious malware. Plus, if your friend or coworker's PC has an infection, you may receive bogus email from them, asking you to open an attachment. Review the email carefully: does it sound like an email your friend would usually send? If in doubt, call them up and ask them!

If you steer clear of these five most common computer crimes, your PC will perform better and keep you safer. So go ahead, hug your HP, cuddle your Compaq, and show your PC a little care and attention – you'll be glad you did.

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