One of my more recent posts on Computers and Security included using older equipment and air gapping.

So I found it interesting tonight to see it portrayed on  "The Beekeeper," Jason Statham' newest movie.

While the movie is largely fiction - there is also an accurate portrayal of the way people hack peoples computers and steal their money.

It is also accurate that those who run viruses, and call rooms, DO TARGET the elderly, the weak, and anyone they can fool.

How to be safe.  If a security notice pops up on your computer, and someone calls you - turn off the computer, by holding down the power button and then unplugging the computer and if its a laptop remove the battery..  Then note the number and hang up.

Then call someone you trust - and discuss contacting Law Enforcement.   If Law Enforcement cannot help - then call a local to you Computer Services and Repair Company.

Also call your financial institutions and banks to have them manually change your security / passwords. When they ask about the reason tell them - possible fraud.

Other tips for safety.  Never use the same password on all accounts. Never save your account information and passwords on your computer AND most importantly - use strong passwords. 

For important accounts and financial accounts use two factor authentication - which is usually your computer and your cell phone.   Also change your passwords on a regular basis.  Your Bank and Online Financial Companies will also have advice on how to stay safe.    Many banks and financial groups flag and halt illicit activity - if this happens call the phone number on the back of your Credit / Debit Card or the Number to your bank or financial institution.   Do NOT call any numbers suggested in an email or "computer virus" alert.

Your best protection is to "Be Aware" and "Research Computer Security" yourself. Protect yourself and your relatives, including your children, the elderly, your family, your friends and your employees by discussing, passwords, fraud, conmen, and computer security.

Last thing - in the movie a person harms themselves believing nothing could be done to recover their money and photos. This is not true!  Do not harm yourself, or others - contact your financial institutions, law enforcement and private attorneys.   In most cases all the funds can be recovered, or are covered under financial institution security and insurance.

Do not restart your computer until after you have made some of the contacts listed above.  

Regards and Be Safe,

Todd W. Byars
Computer Dudes
Global Operations and Security