Say it's not so! Windows 12 is coming in 2024. Apple iPhone malware/exploits.

Windows 12 is coming soon in 2024

I've read too many emails and articles hinting at a new Windows in the months leading up to 2024 and now it's not even a secret any more.  Microsoft is readying it's latest iteration of it's Windows operating system, Windows 12.

It was July 15, 2015 when Windows 10 was released.  It came after the "seemed like a good idea, Windows 8" which tried to merge the phone/tablet and desktop devices.  Unfortunately it was so different users found the learning curve of Windows 8 delayed them from accomplishing their daily tasks.

Why can't Windows be more like Apple OS, new features, fixes but essentially feels the same.  Voila, Windows 10 was supposed to be the answer.  It was but then came Windows 11 with it's centered Apple like taskbar, which can be modified.

It may be that Windows 12 will support ARM processors as well as Intel/AMD processors.  Sometimes it is easier to start from scratch rather that try to make an existing code do something not inherent to it's original intent.

ARM processors are found in small, battery-powered devices such as laptops, tablets and smartphones.  However, ARM processors are also used for desktops and servers, including the world's fastest supercomputer (Fugaku) from 2020 to 2022(1).

It may be that Windows 12 can accomplish the meshing of the myriad of devices in a way that Windows 8 was unable to do.

BTW, Windows 10 End of Life is October 14, 2025.  See footnote 3 below.

https://www.zdnet.com/article/windows-12-faq-yes-its-coming-in-2024-and-more-surprising-predictions/

Scammers, thieves and ne'er do wells.

More than likely, we've all received emails or maybe texts that reference products or services we didn't buy.  The invoices sometimes mimic PayPal invoices and are very legit in appearance.  Many do not contain links but only a phone number for you to call.  Once on the phone the scammers are very cunning, they're your friend and willing to help.  Beware of any such emails and feel free to forward them to me.  You can comment and ask for my help.

Watch out for your neighbors.

Gwinnett couple lost life savings to scammers pretending to be Geek Squad

https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/other/gwinnett-couple-lost-life-savings-to-scammers-pretending-to-be-geek-squad/ar-AA1maQoK

Apple iPhones Viruses and Malware

Apple has always claimed that their phones are not susceptible to viruses.  I know that's not true because I've a client who has had services compromised in the past through a mobile app on their phone.

Last night I called Apple support about an issue with the Wallet on my iPhone.  I was experiencing a non-transmit error when I tried to pay.  It was related to a glitch in my time zone setting.

The tech was nice, Indian I'm guessing because of accent.  I asked him about Apple's claim of being virus/malware proof.  He said maybe it was because every time you update your phone, the new IOS scans for malware.

I next asked him about the iPhones in Pakistan that were delivered with the Blast Pass Exploit.  This code is a zero-day, zero-click malware deployment exploit capable of infecting the latest Apple IOS versions (up to v16.6) without any assist from the user.  It specifically downloads Pegasus spyware.

In response to this threat, Apple has issued a remedial advisory for iPhone users and is sending alerts to its users to notify them of the potential targeting by NSO Pegasus spyware or state-sponsored attackers. (2)

I want to advise clients of mine who have Kaspersky AV, that there is a KAV app for your smartphones, both IOS and Android included with your subscription.

BTW, I told the Apple tech what to search for to find the article.  The Pakistan government has been dealing with iPhone issues since 2021, may be earlier.

Government Warns About IPhone User Hacking in Pakistan

https://newsguru.pk/government-warns-about-iphone-user-hacking-in-pakistan/

footnotes

(1) WikiPedia

(2) NewsGuru - Pakistan

(3) The final version of Windows 10 is version 22H2, which will reach end of servicing on October 14, 2025. Beginning with Windows 10, version 21H2, feature updates for Windows 10 release are released annually, in the second half of the calendar year, to the General Availability Channel. For information about servicing timelines, see the Windows lifecycle FAQ1.

DFORCE Elite Workstations (not consumer crap!)

Our workstations are designed using the best available components to include, Intel unlocked processors matched to Z chipset mainboards.  The SSDs are M2, Western Digital/Samsung high end.  Not all solid state drives are the same, read/write speeds vary greatly.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IQGrU_fIP-N1L6iJ1bhiLYCZph76uL6I/view?usp=drive_link

On this day in history, Jan. 9, 2007, Steve Jobs introduced the Apple iPhone to the world at Macworld in San Francisco

On this day in history, Jan. 9, 2007, Steve Jobs introduced the Apple iPhone to the world at Macworld in San Francisco

January 9, 2007 - Apple Introduces iPhone

iPhone, a crappy device?

Not everyone was a fan however.  This review from the AJC Business section, June 2007.  (previously published 11/17/15, DforceATL-iPhone post

The iPhone was made available to the U.S. consumer on June 29, 2007 to much fanfare but not everyone was impressed.  An article in the AJC Atlanta Journal Constitution opined that it was too trendy and consumer would not shell out the dough for the pricey novelty.  LOL, see AJC Tech writer's review below.

Safeguard iPhones, iPads & Macs: Apply security updates now. Microsoft 365 Basic Authentication ends October 1, 2022

Safeguard your iPhones, iPads and Macs: Apply these security updates now

Apple urges users to patch their devices as newly disclosed vulnerabilities 'may have been actively exploited'.

There are reports that Apple products to include iPhones, iPads and Macs are actively being targeted by hackers due to a series of vulnerabilities in the IOS's of the devices.

In the wake of the heightened political tensions with state actors as well as plain old criminal hackers, it would be wise to apply Apple's latest security updates to your devices ASAP.

To read the more click on the following link,

https://www.zdnet.com/article/safeguard-your-iphones-ipads-and-macs-apply-these-security-updates-now/?ftag=TRE-03-10aaa6b&bhid=%7B%24external_id%7D&mid=%7B%24MESSAGE_ID%7D&cid=%7B%24contact_id%7D

Microsoft is turning off Basic Authentication for Exchange Online customers.

On October 1, 2022, Microsoft is turning off Basic Authentication in Exchange Online for all tenants.

If you have Microsoft Exchange as part of your Microsoft Office subscription, you need to enable MFA, Multi-Factor Authentication.  This will require you to receive a code either via email or cell phone each time you login to http://office.com.

In addition, a secured password will be required for any desktop email app such as Outlook or Mozilla Thunderbird.

As more sophisticated cyber criminals take aim at hybrid and remote workers, Microsoft is working to raise awareness among Exchange Online customers that one of the most important security steps they can take is to move away from outdated, less secure protocols, like Basic Authentication.

Basic Authentication puts companies at greater risk of data breaches and disruption of email. There are 921 password attacks every second, almost doubling the frequency of attacks from 2021. In addition, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) received 19,954 business email compromise (BEC) and email account compromise (EAC) complaints with adjusted losses at nearly USD2.4 billion.

To read more, click on the following link:

It's Time to Disable Basic Authentication in Office 365  - Office 365 Reports (o365reports.com)

Other security news:

Reported ransomware attacks are just the tip of the iceberg. That's a problem for everyone

Shame or just trying to avoid bad publicity means there's very little useful data recorded on ransomware attacks.

https://www.zdnet.com/article/reported-ransomware-attacks-are-just-the-tip-of-the-iceberg-thats-a-problem-for-everyone/?ftag=TRE-03-10aaa6b&bhid=%7B%24external_id%7D&mid=%7B%24MESSAGE_ID%7D&cid=%7B%24contact_id%7D

Federal courts hit by "significant and sophisticated" cyberattack in 2020

https://www.zdnet.com/article/federal-courts-hit-by-significant-and-sophisticated-cyber-attack-in-2020/

TikTok 'Kia Challenge' fuels rise in using USB cables to steal cars

https://www.insider.com/tiktok-kia-challenge-using-usb-cables-to-steal-cars-2022-7

Warning: Malicious browser extension targets Gmail and AOL users

https://www.komando.com/security-privacy/malicious-browser-extension/848631/

How to find and remove spyware from your phone

Surveillance apps are becoming more advanced. Here's what to do if you think you're being tracked.

https://www.zdnet.com/article/how-to-find-and-remove-spyware-from-your-phone/

Microsoft October 2020 Patch Tuesday, Alexa IT Headache and new iPhones.

Microsoft October 2020 Patch Tuesday fixes 87 vulnerabilities

Fixes for 21 remote code execution (RCE) vulnerabilities included for products like Excel, Outlook, the Windows Graphics component, and the Windows TCP/IP stack.

Microsoft has released today its monthly batch of security updates known as Patch Tuesday, and this month the OS maker has patched 87 vulnerabilities across a wide range of Microsoft products.

 It's a monthly thing, sometimes no gain, only pain but with much of the U.S. and the world working remotely it is now more important to apply your OS updates than ever.  Hackers are concentrating their efforts on the RDP protocols.

https://www.zdnet.com/article/microsoft-october-2020-patch-tuesday-fixes-87-vulnerabilities/?ftag=TRE-03-10aaa6b&bhid=2219791&mid=13109479&cid=716603217

Amazon's Alexa is driving IT managers crazy

"The danger is that these devices aren't typically secured by design," Grimm told me. "They can basically be like an open door or window to the network that an attacker uses as a means to get on the network and look for more valuable resources -- intellectual property, personal information, and more."

https://www.zdnet.com/article/amazons-alexa-is-driving-it-managers-crazy/

See also: Amazon's Alexa gets a new brain on Echo |  Alexa, why should I upgrade my Echo?  | Which Echo to buy? How to pick the best Alexa device for your needs | Why Amazon needs to stop selling us new Echos

Apple just announced the iPhone 12 lineup, and it's packed full of features and new capabilities, at a range of price points.

I've been telling Verizon and AT&T clients for over a year now, just because your phone displays 5G in he upper right corner, if you don't have a 5G phone you are operating at 4G.  Well 5G iPhones are finally here.

All four iPhone 12 models are capable of connecting to 5G networks. In the US, that means they include Sub6 and mmWave compatibility. The phones will have a Smart Data Mode that will decide whether or not a 5G connection is required for a task, and when it's not, it will use a 4G LTE connection instead. Doing so will save battery life. 

New iPhone models and dates of availability:

iPhone 12 Mini: Nov. 6 preorders, Nov 13 availability

iPhone 12: Oct 16 preorders, Oct. 23 availability 

iPhone 12 Pro: Oct. 16 preorders, Oct. 23 availability 

iPhone 12 Pro Max: Nov. 6 preorders, Nov 13 availability

https://www.zdnet.com/article/iphone-12-all-the-models-launch-date-pricing-and-specs/

This article (link) has me thinking about keeping my iPhone 7 a little longer.

iPhone 12 has 5G, but Apple still has us questioning why we need it

For now, the biggest reason to buy a 5G phone is FOMO -- and future-proofing.

https://www.cnet.com/news/iphone-12-has-5g-but-apple-still-has-us-questinoing-why-we-need-it/

Huge Patch Tuesday update, Security News: States brace for ransomware assaults on voter registries

Microsoft patches two zero-days in massive September 2019 Patch Tuesday

Microsoft's September 2019 Patch Tuesday comes with 80 fixes, 17 of which are for critical bugs.

Yesterday was the 2nd Tuesday of the month which means Patch Tuesday for Windows users.  This patch includes fixes for two Zero-Day exploits.  If a system downloads the malware and infects the host, an attacker can run malware on the system using administrator privileges thus spreading on a network and outside the organization.  One of the exploits impacts the Winsock service, very bad malware.

"As usual, Microsoft didn't reveal any details of how the two bugs were being exploited in the wild, only acknowledging a security researcher from Qihoo 360 Vulcan Team with discovering the first."

This Patch Tuesday update is larger than all previous Patch Tuesday updates released this year.

To read more click on the following link;

https://www.zdnet.com/article/microsoft-patches-two-zero-days-in-massive-september-2019-patch-tuesday/?ftag=TREc64629f&bhid=2219791


States brace for ransomware assaults on voter registries

Hackers have recently shutdown municipal computer in Texas, Maryland, Florida, and New York.  In each case, the affected users have their files held hostage and databases threatened to be erased unless a ransom is paid.  Atlanta was the subject of a massive cyberattack that began March 2018.

"In response to this hack, Atlanta devoted $2.7 million to contractors in order to recover, but later estimated it would need $9.5 million.[12] 

On November 26, 2018, the Department of Justice indicted two Iranian hackers for the attack, charging that Faramarz Shahi Savandi and Mohammad Mehdi Shah Mansouri were part of the SamSam group and created SamSam Ransomware"
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2018_Atlanta_cyberattack

Today officials are concerned that the same types of malware will be used to shut down voter registration and polling stations in the upcoming 2020 elections.

Illinois plans to move its voter registration to a closed optical network that will be offline from other State computers and networks.

"A successful ransomware attack at a critical point before an election could limit access to information and has the potential to undermine public confidence in the election itself," DHS spokesman Scott McConnell said in a statement.

Full article at the following link;

https://www.cnet.com/news/states-prepare-for-ransomware-attacks-on-voter-registries/?ftag=CAD090e536&bhid=21042726186831923270015874178287


Other News of Note;

Wave goodbye to passwords: Soon you could unlock your PC just by holding up your hand

Hitachi Europe has developed Biometric technology that could allow PC users to unlock their computer via their webcam by scanning veins in their fingers.

Password management is a critical component of IT maintenance.  Many users do not take password security seriously, using easily guessed weak passwords to protect critical information.  Biometrics are already being used on modern smartphones and Microsoft's Hello technology that allows you to login with your face.

Entire article at;

https://www.zdnet.com/article/wave-goodbye-to-passwords-the-veins-in-your-fingers-could-soon-unlock-your-pc/?ftag=TRE0fb9d06&bhid=2219791

Apple unveils new iPhone 11 and iPhone 11 Pro

Apple has introduced 2 new iPhones as well as a new iPad.  The base starter phone, iPhone 11 is even priced $50 less than it's predecessor.  However,

"Apple kept the starting prices of its more advanced models, the iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max, at $1,000 and $1,100. The company unveiled the new phones at a 90-minute press event at its Silicon Valley campus."

Apple has rebranded its iPhone line to make the iPhone 11 its entry-level option while adding a “Pro” label to its more expensive models.

https://www.nytimes.com/2019/09/10/technology/iphone-11.html

https://www.cnbc.com/2019/09/10/apple-hardware-event-new-iphones-apple-watches-and-more.html?__source=facebook%7Cmain&fbclid=IwAR21xsWe9ebXPC9DSnCSmyDnEFj8cxRI74ooaKmW82JdvWzJVI64H7NNOOQ


George Soros offers rare praise for Trump and how he’s handled Huawei in the trade war

https://www.cnbc.com/2019/09/10/soros-offers-rare-praise-for-trumps-handling-of-huawei-in-trade-war.html

Windows 10 Report Card after 4 years. Fake News: Mr. Science Bill Nye - Chromebook better than Windows

Windows 10 after four years: A solid report card, but serious challenges ahead

Every year, some pundits declare the PC dead. But sales are holding steady and are even up year over year, as mobile professionals, gamers, and corporate IT departments decide that there really isn't a credible alternative yet. Maybe next year.

After 4 years, 6 major feature updates Windows 10 is on track to hold 80% of the Windows market by the time support for Windows 7 ends in 2020.  However, a number of corporate users refusal to upgrade sparks concerns that a resurgence of malware such as the WannaCry ransomware outbreak that struck Windows XP when support ended for that OS.

All in all Windows 10 has been a successful venture other than the misstep that occurred with the rollout of version 1809, (score under Upgrades and Updates).

ZDNet grades Windows 10 in 6 areas;

1.  Adoption Rate:  C-

2.  Upgrades and Updates:  C+

3.  Privacy:  A,  The competition (Google and Apple) has made this category too easy for Microsoft.

4.  Security:  A/B

5.  Apps:  Incomplete

6.  Hardware:  A-  Apple is stumbling badly in the Mac market, criticized for the quality of its keyboards, a lackadaisical approach to design, and a lackadaisical attitude about its professional customers. This year, the run of bad news for would-be Mac owners continues with the news that recent-vintage 15-inch MacBook Pro models are banned from airplanes because of the risk of battery fires.

To read the entire ZDNet article click the following link;

https://www.zdnet.com/article/windows-10-report-card-after-four-years-serious-challenges-ahead/

The above article segues nicely into our next news item, Mr. Science Bill Nye becoming the face of Chromebook.  Is it time to take Mr. Nye's well paid for opinion and buy a Chromebook over a Windows notebook?  After the Chromebook ad featuring Mr. Nye appeared, a ZDNet reporter decides to pay a visit to a retailer and find out which is selling and which is the best system to own.

Windows or Chromebook? A Best Buy salesman told me it isn't even close

After Google hires Bill Nye to explain that people are just scared to leave their decrepit Windows laptops for Chromebooks, I thought I'd get another opinion. It was harsh.

To read the surprise finding of the visit, please click on the following link;

https://www.zdnet.com/article/windows-or-chromebook-a-best-buy-salesman-told-me-it-isnt-even-close/?ftag=TRE-03-10aaa6b&bhid=2219791

Louisiana governor declares state emergency after local ransomware outbreak

The Governor of Louisiana has declared a statewide emergency after 3 school districts have been hit by ransomware.  The attack has taken down IT networks and their files have been encrypted rendering them inaccessible.

Last year the Governor of Colorada activated a state emergency after the Colorado DOT was shut down due to SamSam ransomware.

Read the entire article at:

https://www.zdnet.com/article/louisiana-governor-declares-state-emergency-after-local-ransomware-outbreak/


IRS warns thousands of cryptocurrency holders to pay their taxes

Did you make a bundle on Bitcoin or some other Cryptocurrency last year?  Uncle Sam wants his cut so get ready to pay up.

https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/markets/irs-warns-thousands-of-cryptocurrency-holders-to-pay-their-taxes/ar-AAEUqU2


Apple News

Apple 15-inch MacBook Pro (2019) review: 8-core power and portability, at a price

https://www.zdnet.com/product/apple-macbook-pro-15-inch-2019/?ftag=TRE0fb9d06&bhid=2219791


At $249, this iPad may be a great deal (or about to be discontinued)

Apple slashes the price of iPad as people are balking at paying high prices.  Apple's new MacBook Air is significantly slower than the older model it replaces.

https://www.zdnet.com/article/at-249-this-ipad-may-be-a-great-deal-or-about-to-be-discontinued/


DForce Intel Gen 8 & 9 based workstations with SSDs

Warning! If You Save your Passwords in a Browser, Don't miss this Blog Post

If you use your favorite internet browsing program to save passwords for websites, you might want to rethink this policy.  This includes all browser programs, Chrome, Firefox, IE and Safari.  In 3 of these, I found the saved passwords were only protected by a user's password or in the case of Safari, the Admin password.  The other major browser has a default policy of no password and will expose passwords with a few clicks of the mouse, however, it does allow you to set a Master password separate from a user password.

If you continue to use this method to save passwords please use a strong password and not one you use for all your protection including websites.  However, if your browser uses a User or Admin password to protect saved website passwords, I have programs that can crack a forgotten password or generate a new password for a user.  In the event your computer is stolen or accessed by a hacker or criminal, they can simply change your password and then proceed to steal your financial website's user name and password.

Lastly, beware this information is readily available using a Googe search.

Google Chrome

I knew about the Password list under settings of Google Chrome but I had never paid any attention to the settings and details of the list.  Last week a client needed to be able to log in to a company web publishing account that was created by a user who had left the company.  I suggested checking if they had saved the account password in Chrome.  Then we could use Chrome to auto login and change the password.  I checked the password list to see if the password was saved.  What I found was that Chrome will easily spill all its content about passwords, Banks, Stocks, Credit Cards, Facebook, any password that is in the saved password list.

By default, passwords in Chrome's password list are masked by dots to prevent one from seeing the actual password, however by simply clicking on the eye icon next to a password Windows will prompt you for your user login password or pin and voila, all passwords can be viewed by clicking on the eye icon to the right of a saved password.

If you have ever shared your password with a family member, co-worker or haphazardly use easy passwords for protection then any financial, confidential or social media sites you visit that have a saved password can be viewed and compromised.  And let me add this, if I know this then hackers and criminals know this and if your computer is compromised by a trojan or malware then they know where to look to get access to your confidential Financial and Personal information.  These steps are easily found by Googling for the information.

To illustrate how to expose your password info under Chrome, click on the 3 dots in a line, upper right corner of Chrome browser, then select Settings from the drop-down.

Next click on Passwords,

When you do this the saved and not saved Password list appears

Once the list appears, all I have to do is click on the eye icon and the system will respond with the following Window asking for the computer password/pin.

Once you have provided the computer with the correct password/pin, Chrome will then allow you to reveal the hidden password for every saved account.

Below is my IBJJF password exposed (since changed)...

You might think all this is bad enough but no, there's more.

I have a Chromebook and Android phones.  If you have provided your Gmail account to these devices and have Sync and personalize Chrome across your devices turned on, you can go to My Google and find all saved passwords from your Chrome and Android based devices.

Mozilla Firefox and Microsoft Internet Explorer

You may think I'm saying not to use Google Chrome or I am picking on Chrome.  I started with Chrome because it is the most popular Windows Browser now.  However, FireFox and IE both have the same issue.

The default setting for Firefox doesn't require you to provide a password/pin to show passwords.  All you have to do in Firefox is click on the settings icon in the upper right of the Firefox browser, select options,

choose Privacy & Security,

next click on Login & Passwords, Saved Logins.  

click on Saved Logins and you are 1 step away for revealing all saved passwords.

Note:  Mozilla does allow you to "Use a master password" which you will want to do.  This is a better option in my opinion than using the user password for a computer, however as stated this is not the default and Mozilla is wide open otherwise.

Internet Explorer

To accomplish the same feat in IE, go to Internet Tools.  If your browser has the Menu Bar option on simply click on Tools and then select Internet Tools from the dropdown, if you don't see the Menu Bar you can access Internet Tools from the Control Panel.

Next click on the Content Tab and select Settings under AutoComplete

Click on Manage Passwords

To expose a password click on the carat symbol to the right of the password.

As you can see the user ID is already there, you will be asked to provide the user password/pin to reveal the password.

Safari

Apple's Safari browser protects Macs behind the Admin password.  This is only as secure as the password is strong and breakable using 3rd party hacker software.

http://osxdaily.com/2014/09/15/show-web-site-password-safari-mac-os-x/

Georgia County pays $400,000 to hackers, why you shouldn't buy a new Apple Mac now

Georgia county pays a whopping $400,000 to get rid of a ransomware infection

Are you still complaining about the cost of anti-virus and firewall protection for your computer systems?  Still got the free version of AVG, Avast, Malwarebytes as your main protection?  You have no backup software or disaster plan in place?  I know firms that do not take backup seriously, don't have time.

It used to be the crooks robbed the banks because that's where the money was.  Today, most firms and people conduct some if not all their financial activity on the internet.   Criminals know this too and engage in less risky but no less lucrative activities by trying to steal your credentials and financial information.

There is another segment of cyber-crime that affects businesses, data hijacking.  If your firm is the victim of a ransomware attack, the malicious payload is the encryption of all your data files and it turns your data into useless files halting the ability to continue ongoing operations.

It happened recently to Jackson County Georgia and cost the county $400,000.  On March 1st the local government's computer systems were hit by the ransomware that forced local law enforcement and government to work the way they did prior to computers, by paper.   The Sheriff said they continued to function, it was just more difficult.

The county consulted with the FBI and a cyber-security expert.  After negotiations with the ransomware hackers, $400,000 was paid to get the decryption key to free the county's data.

It was just under a year ago that the city of Atlanta paid $3 million in contracts to recover from a ransomware attack on its systems.

Click on the link below to read the entire story.

https://www.zdnet.com/article/georgia-county-pays-a-whopping-400000-to-get-rid-of-a-ransomware-infection/?ftag=TRE-03-10aaa6b&bhid=27630927001468733386426006914379

The downsides of buying a new Mac

The hefty price tag is only the beginning of the pain that comes as a result of buying a new Mac.

Mac users, what to say.  You would think that anyone who pays that kind of money must do a lot of transaction crunching or have a need for computational power not found outside Cray computers.  Not true.  Until 2005 Apple used the Power PC manufactured by Motorolla/IBM and we were told how superior these were to Intel processors, but then they switched to Intel???

Most Apple users surf the internet, open e-mail and use Microsoft Office.  A complaint I hear from current and former PC users, it is not as efficient or intuitive to manage multiple instances of Office Apps at the same time.

And the choices are?

How insane is the purchase of optional items when buying a Mac?  Look at the prices on these options;

Core i7 to Core i9 processor, $300

a bump in RAM from 16 GB to 32 GB, an extra $400

need more storage, upgrading from the base 1 TB drive to a 4 TB drive for $3200.  Yes, you can add a 4 TB option to your base $2,799 model for an extra $3200.

My gamer clients and friends in the PC world laugh at this because Apples use the same components that are found and offered for PCs.  The difference is PC users don't need the Apple store to work on their computers (notebooks are an exception since they are not as accessible as desktops but RAM and hard drives can be accessed and upgraded on many Windows notebooks).

One can purchase a 4 TB Samsung EVO 860 on Amazon for $549, this is an SSD, solid state Top of the line in performance.

https://www.amazon.com/Samsung-860-Inch-SATA-Internal/dp/B07L3CLM2B?psc=1&SubscriptionId=AKIAILSHYYTFIVPWUY6Q&tag=duckduckgo-d-20&linkCode=xm2&camp=2025&creative=165953&creativeASIN=B07L3CLM2B

It's incredulous, Ridiculoussness and more!  Read the entire article and if you upgrade every year, buy that Apple Mac.

Read more at;

https://www.zdnet.com/article/the-downsides-of-buying-a-new-mac/?ftag=TRE-03-10aaa6b&bhid=27630927001468733386426006914379

Password-stealing phishing attack comes disguised as a fake meeting request from the boss

I believe that most of my Office 365 cloud-based clients are now wary of the many different phishing attempts to steal login credentials via fake Microsoft login sites.  Phishing emails arrive using different tactics to entice you into surrendering your information.

Some examples;  you receive an email with an attached phone message, PDF attachment or a fax document.  When you click on the attachment or link it takes you to either a realistic replica of the Microsoft portal or a not so realistic page that require you to log in with your Office 365 or Outlook credentials.  These criminals have started including all major email services including Gmail, Yahoo, and other services on the landing page.  In many cases, they have already included your email address since they know who the phishing attempt was sent to.  All that is required to wreak havoc on you is your password.

If the email requires you to log in using your email and password to retrieve the document or attachment then assume it is a scam.  In either case, your login information is captured and then used to generate spam or steal your personal and financial information.

This week I have assisted 2 compromised clients.  Fortunately, in both cases damage was minimal.  The first client alerted me quickly when she started receiving email replies and phone call from contacts regarding spam sent from her  email.  In this instance, the hacker did not hide his tracks and I was able to retrieve IP info and track back to Lagos, Nigeria, not like there is any retribution for the perp.

The latest attempt shows an advancement in sophistication and tactics.

It just so happened I was doing some work for the client when the email arrived.  It was from the client's legit email address, but what got my interest was no address listed under the To:  field.

I opened my secure browser and copied and followed the link, it took me to a fake landing page and asked for my Office 365 credentials to retrieve the document.  Suspecting that the client had been compromised, I replied to the email and asked if he had sent it.  I received a reply almost instantly,

Yes, I sent it. It's quite a good read and definitely the most insightful I have read on. It's something that you will be more interested in.

Thanks

I logged into the Office Portal as the Global Admin and checked the Inbox Rules for the affected account.  There was a rule in place to delete all incoming emails.  This is done to prevent the victim from receiving emails like mine asking if the email was sent by them.  Often you will find that a forwarding email has been set up so incoming emails are sent to the hacker before deleting.  In this case, there wasn't a rule for forwarding.  However, I know there was a forward in place somehow since the perp was responding to my email, perhaps an autoreply with a standard message.

I was unable to reach the client by phone so after conferring with the office manager we decided it was best to change the password of the affected account.  She too had received the email.  When I was able to talk to the client by phone it turns out he was busy fielding calls from contacts who had received the email.

My next step was to ascertain the source of the email. This led to a new surprise.  This is the first example of this I've found, there were no internet headers.

 In concluding, be wary of any email with an attachment that requires your email credentials to retrieve.  It is a scam.

The Dangers when surfing the Internet

Emails are not the only way a hacker can exploit your machine.  Websites can be used to deliver malicious payloads to your machine that can steal your information or exploit your machine for use by the attacker.

Some popular add-ins and programs have been exploited in the past to infect computers by fake updates or exploiting security holes and weaknesses.  Adobe Flash Player, Java come to mind.  Popular programs for creating web pages are also attacked.  WordPress due to its popularity is no exception.

https://www.zdnet.com/article/another-wordpress-commercial-plugin-gets-exploited-in-the-wild/


Macs too are always under attack.  The latest Trojan:  https://www.zdnet.com/article/macos-malware-disables-gatekeeper-to-deploy-malicious-payloads/


Laugh of the Day, poor Internet Explorer...

Apple takes swipe at rivals with ad at CES in Las Vegas, Amazon Smart Speaker share slips and other important tech news.

Apple has a message for Amazon and Google and it’s plastered on the side of a hotel at the biggest tech conference of the year

CES, the annual meeting of world business leaders and cutting-edge technology is going on in Las Vegas this week, Jan 8-11.  Big names in technology and entertainment will be introducing new products and technology at the show.  Samsung is introducing new shape-shifting TVs aimed at large applications such as billboards and even larger TVs for the home.  Thanks to a new agreement between Apple and Samsung, new Samsung Smart TVs will feature iTunes along with Hulu and Netflix.  Apple announced that several TV makers will include Airplay2 that allows casting content from an Apple device to the big screen display.

Over 4500 companies will be participating in the show.  However, one company that will not be participating is Apple.  Apple normally does not participate at CES but this year took a shot at the privacy concerns surrounding Google and Amazon recently by posting a huge advertisement on a Las Vegas hotel.

The ad's focus appears to be on phones, however, the real message Apple is implying is that we're not going to sell your data.

Read about this and more CES news at the links below;

https://www.cnbc.com/2019/01/06/apple-privacy-ad-ces-2019.html

https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-46721207

One segment that is expected to be in the spotlight at the CES show is AI, Artificial Intelligence. 

For 2019, we're being promised tags that will let smart speakers tell you where your pet or TV remote is hiding, as well as Alexa/Google Assistant-controlled pianos, heart rate monitors, lawnmowers, motorcycle helmets and meditation lamps.


Which segues into the next story.

Amazon Is Losing Its Grip on the Smart Speaker Market

In the past, I have written blog posts about the smart speaker market particularly with praise for Amazon's Echo which could be purchased on sale in the Dot model for $29 at times.  Today, more than 74 million people have smart speakers in 2019 which represents roughly 26% of all internet users.  Amazon's price has allowed them to dominate in the early adoption of smart speakers but with competition from Google's Home, the share is eroding.  However, this Christmas Amazon sold millions of Echo devices breaking sales records so they will continue to dominate the segment for the foreseeable future but Echo is no longer the default choice of consumers.

Read more at;

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/amazon-losing-grip-smart-speaker-190900716.html

https://www.fool.com/investing/2019/01/06/amazon-losing-its-grip-on-smart-speaker-market.aspx

and consider the plight of this poor guy who wanted to upgrade to an Apple,

Looking for Top Shelf performance, SSDs and Intel Generation 9 based systems.

Consider upgrading your current system with an SSD, Solid State Drive.  A 500 GB Western Digital 2.5" desktop SSD is only $79.99.

Western Digital SSD WDS500G2B0A 500GB SATA III 6Gb/s 2.5inch 7mm Blue

Internet Browsers, MS Edge, Google Chrome's new User Interface UGLY, Bent iPads and lower iPhone sales

Microsoft Edge Retains Its Battery Life Advantage in Windows 10 Version 1809

I had never really thought about this much but in this day of online streaming, if one is using a notebook or tablet, Microsoft's Edge browser has a 24 percent battery life advantage over Chrome and 94 percent advantage over Firefox when streaming HTML5 video in full screen.

On average, Microsoft Edge provided a 24 percent battery life advantage over Google Chrome and a 94 percent advantage over Firefox. Edge lasted over 16 hours on average, compared to almost 13 hours for Chrome and 8 hours and 16 minutes for Firefox.

As reported previously on this blog, Microsoft is switching the underlying code for Edge to Chromium, an open source engine from Google.  Why Microsoft never touted this Edge advantage before I can't say.  It will be interesting to see if the advantage persists after the switch to Chromium.  Microsoft is making the switch to Chromium because of the large number of add-ons available for Chrome and lack of add-ons or interest in writing add-ons for Edge.

https://www.thurrott.com/windows/windows-10/196141/microsoft-edge-retains-its-battery-life-advantage-in-windows-10-version-1809

and while we are talking browsers...

Google Chrome's new UI is ugly, and people are very angry
The new UI is trash, users say.

Anytime you start changing things most people don't like it.  Let's face it, people don't like change.  Microsoft hopefully learned a lesson from Windows 8.  People couldn't get things done because of the difficulty Windows users had in learning the new user interface.

Now Google apparently learned nothing from Microsoft's mistake.  Starting back in September with Chrome version 69, a new user interface was rolled out with mobile devices in mind.  Some users voiced their discontent with the interface so Chrome allowed an option to modify a setting and continue to use the older user interface.  The new version, 71 released earlier this month has removed that option.  The lighter color and rounded tabs are difficult to distinguish on laptops and desktops especially when using multiple tabs.  The ability to mute websites has also disappeared with the new version.

The change has prompted a social media storm on sites like Reddit and Twitter with complaints being legitimate and no sympathy from Google engineers who have stepped in on the sites and told users to switch to other browsers.  Wow!

https://www.zdnet.com/article/google-chromes-new-ui-is-ugly-and-people-are-very-angry/

Apple's gaslighting over bent iPads is a stunning response to a serious problem

Starting in mid-December, people started complaining that their new iPad Pros were bent.  Photos started circulating online that clearly showed one side of the iPad perceptively higher than the other when lying on a flat surface and you know what?  Apple has announced that it isn't going to repair, replace or reimburse for affected models.

Apple wants you to believe that this iPad is normal.

https://www.macworld.com/article/3330576/apple/apples-gaslighting-ipad-pro.html

Massive iPhone Discounts Continue As Apple Risks Status For Sales

The days of Apple being able to dictate the price to consumers may be over.  Hell, I predicted a $2000 iPhone in an earlier blog.  Apparently, that's not going to be the case since Apple's latest models are not selling.  The iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max are being discounted in the UK and the US and that practice is now spreading to other territories.

Analysts watching the supply line, the earnings reports from parts suppliers, and consumer reaction and interactions, are all estimating lower sales for this generation of iPhone.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/ewanspence/2018/12/26/apple-iphone-xr-iphone-xs-iphone-xs-max-sale-discount-bargain/#6e50463344dc

and finally,

Apple may start building the iPhone XS and XR in India next year

Apple controls 13 percent of the smartphone marke worldwide, however, in India it's share is only 2 percent selling fewer than a million devices in the first half of 2018.

https://www.engadget.com/2018/12/27/apple-iphone-x-assembled-in-india-2019/

Intel Generation 8 and 9 based computers

Buy a new Driving Force Computer before Year End for Tax year 2018.

 

Latest Security Hack, Microsoft passes Apple as most valuable Company

Latest Hack:  Marriott says its Starwood database was hacked on approximately 500 million guests

Marriott said the Starwood guest reservation database was breached, potentially exposing information on about 500 million guests.

Among the information stolen on many of the guests includes a  combination of name, mailing address, phone number, email address, passport number, Starwood Preferred Guest account information, date of birth, gender, arrival and departure information, reservation date, and communication preferences. 

Payment information may also have been accessed on some guests.

https://www.cnbc.com/2018/11/30/marriott-says-its-starwood-database-was-breached-onapproximately-500-million-guests-.html

Apple and Microsoft are going head to head for world’s largest company

What you may say... Microsoft?  It was Amazon and Apple that had been vying for the richest capitalization but the online retailing giant's stock has dropped in value along with Apple's beginning in October.  Meanwhile Microsoft stock has surged in part due to 2 areas, cloud and gaming.

Microsoft's growing cloud business and strong PC sales made Microsoft one of the few tech companies to grow in value following its September quarter earnings results. Apple's valuation, meanwhile, has fallen more than 20 percent since its own earnings results.

Microsoft topped AWS (Amazon Web Services) beginning in the 1st quarter this year with IBM trailing in 3rd place.  Both IBM and Microsoft posted very good 2017 4th Qtr results with IBM topping both AWS and Microsoft.  However, the gap between Microsoft and AWS started widening in that quarter.

Gaming has become a huge industry fueled by Fortnite, Red Dead video games online forums.  Gaming machines are very lucrative for hardware companies.  Video cards capable of delivering 4K graphics and high speeds can cost more than the average business computer alone.

https://www.macrumors.com/2018/11/26/microsoft-passes-apple-most-valuable-company/

https://9to5mac.com/2018/11/26/apple-market-cap-microsoft/

https://9to5mac.com/2018/11/01/apple-stop-reporting-unit-sales/

https://9to5mac.com/2018/11/21/foxconn-cut-costs-iphone-sales/

AAPL chart by TradingView

AMZN chart by TradingView

MSFT chart by TradingView

DFORCE PCs - INTEL Generation 8 Computers, for Business & Gaming

A $2,000 iPhone: It's coming. It's inevitable

A $2,000 iPhone: It's coming. It's inevitable

Now that Samsung has introduced a new Galaxy Note 9 starting at $1250, the experts say a $2000 iPhone is around the corner.  Hell, I can't sell a $499 desktop but people will spend a thousand plus for a phone...

The new Galaxy Note 9 has beaten Apple at their own game with the $1249 price for a phone with more RAM, storage and screen real estate, 6.4 inches.  There is a 512GB model for an extra $250 plus you can add a 512GB micro SD card for 1TB of storage.

Apple currently offers a base model 64GB iPhone X for $999 and a 256GB model for $1249.  According to rumors, Apple is preparing to release 3 new models.

Now you have to admit Apple is genius at making money.  The recent earnings announcement highlighted how services revenue had grown for Apple.  They offer a 64GB and 256GB model and give you 5GB iCloud storage to back up your phone with.  Wow, how generous of Tim Cook and company.

iCloud storage plans and pricing
When you sign up for iCloud, you automatically get 5GB of free storage. If you need more space in iCloud, you can upgrade to a larger storage plan.

Read all about it at;

https://www.zdnet.com/article/a-2000-iphone-its-inevitable/?ftag=TRE-03-10aaa6b&bhid=2219791

Intel Generation 8 workstations 

PCs sales up, Macs are down, Apple first company with Trillion Dollar Market Cap even as Huawei passes for 2nd in Phone Sales

WHY ARE PCS SALES GROWING WHILE MAC SALES ARE CRASHING?

While PC sales are up for the first time in 6 years, Mac sales had the worst quarter in 7 years, a 13 percent unit decline year over year.  In fact, Mac sales are at a level not seen since Q3 2010.

The reasons behind these figures are simple.  PCs have exhibited new features and innovations in recent years driven by Microsoft and the Surface Line while Apple has allowed it Mac lineup to become stagnant.  Apple recently an update "Refresh" on its Macbook Pro, however, it is hard to justify spending thousands of dollars on technology that is more than a year old.  In addition, the reliability of Macs has received a lot of consumer complaints and negative press recently and that doesn't help when selling systems priced over a thousand if not thousands of dollars.

Windows 10 has been another factor in PC growth.  OEMs and manufacturers have bestowed credit on Microsoft's OS for helping revive the market.

PCs and Macs have different markets and some professionals rely on Macs to work, however,  businesses and enterprises overwhelmingly rely on PCs and the business market is buying PCs again.  

The recent release of Intel Gen 8 processors and less expensive SSDs have provided a significant performance increase that coupled with Windows 10 offer an upgrade experience worth the money.

Windows 10 version 1803 that was just released adds so many features that use to cost you money.  Version 1803 came with a new App that performs video and photo editing a popular application among today's users.

to read about this and more click on 

https://www.zdnet.com/article/why-are-pcs-sales-growing-while-mac-sales-are-crashing/

Apple hits a trillion dollar market cap — watch it move live here

Apple shares hit the historic $1 trillion market value milestone Thursday.

The stock briefly hit the $207.05 per share price that was needed to bring it to the $1 trillion mark before retreating.

The shares have soared since reporting better-than-expected quarterly earnings on Tuesday after the bell. The stock jumped 5.9 percent on Wednesday and has continued higher Thursday.

China's Huawei overtakes Apple as world's 2nd largest smartphone seller

http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2018-08/02/c_137364051.htm

Driving Force - Powerful New Intel Gen 8 workstations!

Driving Force offers a full line of Gen 8 workstations to fit any need.  Whether you are looking at the most economical or a powerful platform to last for years to come, any of these will beat your current system.

For pricing please click on image below.  Thanks!