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 The CTSI Tech Times
Monthly Updates from Your Business's IT Department
March, 2010 - Vol 2, Issue 3
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| Upcoming Area Events |
3/04/10 - Outback Dinner, supporting Lubbock Boys & Girls Club, Lubbock Civic Center, 6:30pm
3/05/10 - First Friday Art Trail, 6-9pm
3/06/10 - Littlefield Country-Western Opry 7pm
3/06/10 - Old Mill Trade Day in Post
3/13/10 - Meadow Country-Western Jamboree 7pm
3/14/10 - Southwest Symphony Orchestra, Hobbs
3/14/10 - 2am Daylight Savings Time, set clocks ahead one hour
3/17/10 - St. Patrick's Day
4/15/10 - CTSI 25th Anniversary; Client Appreciation Event
To have your event listed, please contact us.
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| Milestones |
03/01/10 - Andrew Fleming completed his 14th year with CTSI.
03/31/10 - John Baucum has been with CTSI for 2 years.
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| From David's Desk... |
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Online Banking: Simple Steps to Protect Yourself
Today's technology makes much of our daily routine easier than what previous generations endured. Along with that comes one caveat: technology advances also require a watchful and discerning eye on the part of the user, especially when it comes to our assets. Incidents of online banking fraud are on the rise globally, but there are steps you can take to avoid becoming a victim.
Generally U.S. banks' own systems have proved difficult to attack, so criminals have turned their attention to getting information directly from online banking customers themselves. The two most commonly attempted scams currently used by online fraudsters are phishing and spyware. Here is some basic information about scamming methods and some tips to help you stymie the swindlers:
Phishing
This is the name given to emails that claim to be from your bank or other trusted institutions but are actually sent to you by fraudsters. They urge you to click on a link that takes you to a fake website identical to the one you would expect to see. You are then asked to verify your personal security information. If you submit this information you are actually giving it to a thief on the other end. The perpetrator then uses the details to access your online bank account and take your money. An easy way to spot phishing emails is that they are usually addressed to "Dear valued customer" instead of using your name.
To avoid phishing scams you should:
-Always be suspicious of emails that are supposedly from your bank.
-Always access internet banking sites by typing the bank's address into your web browser. Never go to a website from a link in an email and then enter personal details.
-Never give your login details in full by email or over the phone - your bank will never request them in this way.
-Make sure your computer has up-to-date antivirus software and a firewall installed.
Spyware
This is a type of computer virus that can be installed on your computer without your knowledge. It is capable of logging your keystrokes, thereby capturing your passwords and other personal information.
To make sure you don't become a victim of spyware, you should:
-Always ensure you have up-to-date antivirus and firewall software installed, and ask for technical support if your computer starts acting oddly.
-Consider using anti-spyware software. You should also download from the internet the latest security updates, known as patches, for your browser and for your operating system (such as Windows).
-You are also encouraged to make sure your browser is set to the highest level of security notification and monitoring. The safety options are not always activated by default when you install your computer.
-Keep your passwords and Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) a secret - don't write them down or tell anyone what they are.
-Maintain control over access to your computer, whether it is at your home or office.
-When you have completed a bank transaction, make certain to log off to break the connection with the bank's computer.
-Never conduct banking transactions while multiple browsers are open on your computer
-Never use your online banking login and password credentials to access any other site as that site might be compromised.
As your trusted technology partner, we will continue to keep you informed of the latest technology news and developments. If you have any questions or concerns about your online security, feel free to contact me or a member of our Technology Consulting Group, and we will be glad to help you.
Until next time,
David D. Baucum
President, CTSI
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| 8 Ways to Help Maintain Your Computer and Devices at Work |
You most likely couldn't do your job without your computer and mobile devices. Every day you use them to work on files, connect with people, and access resources. Keeping them running smoothly is important to working effectively.
So how do you start?
At work your computer and devices are part of a larger network. Keeping them running means you have to work closely with your corporate IT department. Working with them will save you time, save your company money, and help keep the network secure. This article includes tips and best practices for working with your corporate IT department to keep your computer and devices up-to-date and functioning properly.
Who owns the computer?
You use a computer at work, you may take it home, and you might even have a picture of your kids on the computer desktop. The computer, though, isn't yours. It's important to realize that your company owns that computer. They have the right to install patches and updates on a regular basis. By doing so, they can make sure your computer and the network run as smoothly as possible.
"It's common for IT departments to get complaints about patches being put on computers," said Jim DuBois, a general manager for IT at Microsoft. "But it is the best way for companies to make sure the network and computers remain secure."
To further protect their computers, many companies even prevent users from making changes to the settings or software installed on the computer.
Best practices for maintaining your computer
Use these best practices to help maintain and protect the computer you use at work. You should contact your IT department to determine their specific policies.
1. Install all updates required by your IT department. Not installing updates as required by your IT department can expose your company to viruses and other security risks. Some companies even prevent computers from accessing the network if patches aren't installed after a set date. Also, find out whether the IT department wants you to install updates on Microsoft Update . If they do, make it a habit of checking Microsoft Update regularly. You'll save yourself the hassle of the IT department forcing you to install updates when it's not convenient for you.
2. Install only licensed programs. Make sure that you or your company have a license for any software you install on your work computer. Your company can get sued for having software without a license installed on its computers. For example, installing a program your friend bought could present some problems. Software that you've bought a license for is probably fine, but double-check the license to make sure. Sometimes, software bought for home use cannot be installed at work as well.
3. Don't install different versions of software. Even if you prefer the version of software you use at home rather than work, don't install it on your work computer. You could have incompatibility problems with the software your co-workers are using and with your specific line of business applications. Your IT department may also not be able to make any required updates or provide technical support.
4. Let IT know when hardware isn't working. Fixing a broken computer yourself could just cause more problems. Your fixes, for example, could make the computer incompatible with the corporate network. Most IT departments have a helpdesk or technical assistance program designed for this type of work. The IT department may have already seen the same problem and have a known fix. Helping your IT department track common computer problems can also help them decide which brand and make of computer to order in the future.
5. Let IT know when you need something. Giving the IT department reasonable requests and adequate time for planning can help them respond to your needs. Otherwise, you may end up with computer software or hardware you didn't want, which can hinder how effective you are at work.
6. Don't download programs from Internet sites you don't trust. By downloading programs that may not be secure, you put all the computers on the network at risk.
7. Be aware of suspicious e-mails. A virus introduced though e-mail may be disguised as a downloadable file. If an e-mail you receive is from someone you don't know, contains strange text, or otherwise looks suspicious, contact your IT department. If you open it, you could potentially cause problems for you and you co-workers. If it does contain a virus, the IT department can ask other employees in the organization to look for similar e-mails.
8. Use online support resources. Many IT departments have created online internal help sites that could provide an answer to your computer problem. Each day, Help desks typically receive many questions that are already answered at these sites.
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Save the Date
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We are excited to announce the CTSI 25th Anniversary Client Appreciation Event on Thursday, April 15th at Fox & Hound English Pub and Grille, located at 4210 82nd Street from 5pm-8pm. We hope that you will be able to join us for drinks and appetizers. There will be many giveaways; you won't leave empty handed. So mark your calendar and save the date!
Be on the lookout for more details in an invitation by mail in the coming weeks. Or simply ask your CTSI associate and they'll be glad to provide you a personal invitation. RSVP
|
|
Tips of the Month
|
| Some handy time-saving shortcuts for both beginners and experts:
 To open your Start Menu, Ctrl + Esc.
In Word: to select text, Shift + Right Arrow, Shift + Left Arrow,
Shift + Up Arrow, Shift + Down Arrow
Ctrl + S save the current file or document (works in most programs)
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| Staff Spotlight |
|
What is your title and what do you do at CTSI?
I am an Application Developer. I am part of a team that designs and creates websites, web applications, and desktop applications.
How long have you been at CTSI?
- I've worked at CTSI for a year and a half.
Tell us about your family and pets.
- I have a wife, Lori, who is kind enough to put up with me and a 2-year-old golden retriever named Maggie.
What do you do in your free time?
- I like to learn new things, so I enjoy reading. I also like playing basketball and am always up for a board game.
If you weren't working in the business technology sector, what would you be doing?
- I was on my way to becoming a teacher before I decided on web development, so I would probably be teaching in a high school somewhere.
Tell us your favorite things about Lubbock.
- I have a lot of family in the area and, as odd as it sounds, I like the weather.
Tell us one thing that co-workers and clients don't know about you.
|
| Helen's Recipe of the Month |
Helen Burns, CTSI's Purchasing Manager, has been with the company for the past ten years. In addition to her purchasing duties, Helen serves as our unofficial party coordinator. Helen (with help from our administrative assistant, Nancy Clark) makes sure we celebrate every staff member's birthday as well as various holidays by providing a wide range of delectable treats. Without further ado, from Helen's kitchen to you!
CAPIROTADA
Southwest Traditional Lenten Dish
16 slices of bread
Butter or margarine for spreading
4 cups water
2 cups raisins
1 1/2 cup brown sugar
2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
2 cups grated Velveeta (or American) cheese
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.Combine water, raisins,brown sugar, and cinnamon in a medium-size saucepan and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Remove from heat & set aside. Toast bread on both sides, butter generously, and tear into pieces. In a deep baking dish (sprayed with non-stick spray) spread half the torn bread, sprinkle half the toasted almonds, pour half the sugar & raisin mixture moistening all the bread, and cover with half the cheese. Repeat with another layerof ingredients, topping with remaining cheese. Bake uncovered at 350 for 25 minutes and serve warm.
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|
The CTSI Tech Times
Monthly Updates from Your Business's IT Department
March, 2010 - Vol 2, Issue 3
|
|
| |
| Upcoming Area Events |
3/04/10 - Outback Dinner, supporting Lubbock Boys & Girls Club, Lubbock Civic Center, 6:30pm
3/05/10 - First Friday Art Trail, 6-9pm
3/06/10 - Littlefield Country-Western Opry 7pm
3/06/10 - Old Mill Trade Day in Post
3/13/10 - Meadow Country-Western Jamboree 7pm
3/14/10 - Southwest Symphony Orchestra, Hobbs
3/14/10 - 2am Daylight Savings Time, set clocks ahead one hour
3/17/10 - St. Patrick's Day
4/15/10 - CTSI 25th Anniversary; Client Appreciation Event
To have your event listed, please contact us.
|
| Milestones |
03/01/10 - Andrew Fleming completed his 14th year with CTSI.
03/31/10 - John Baucum has been with CTSI for 2 years.
|
|
|
| From David's Desk... |
|
Online Banking: Simple Steps to Protect Yourself
Today's technology makes much of our daily routine easier than what previous generations endured. Along with that comes one caveat: technology advances also require a watchful and discerning eye on the part of the user, especially when it comes to our assets. Incidents of online banking fraud are on the rise globally, but there are steps you can take to avoid becoming a victim.
Generally U.S. banks' own systems have proved difficult to attack, so criminals have turned their attention to getting information directly from online banking customers themselves. The two most commonly attempted scams currently used by online fraudsters are phishing and spyware. Here is some basic information about scamming methods and some tips to help you stymie the swindlers:
Phishing
This is the name given to emails that claim to be from your bank or other trusted institutions but are actually sent to you by fraudsters. They urge you to click on a link that takes you to a fake website identical to the one you would expect to see. You are then asked to verify your personal security information. If you submit this information you are actually giving it to a thief on the other end. The perpetrator then uses the details to access your online bank account and take your money. An easy way to spot phishing emails is that they are usually addressed to "Dear valued customer" instead of using your name.
To avoid phishing scams you should:
-Always be suspicious of emails that are supposedly from your bank.
-Always access internet banking sites by typing the bank's address into your web browser. Never go to a website from a link in an email and then enter personal details.
-Never give your login details in full by email or over the phone - your bank will never request them in this way.
-Make sure your computer has up-to-date antivirus software and a firewall installed.
Spyware
This is a type of computer virus that can be installed on your computer without your knowledge. It is capable of logging your keystrokes, thereby capturing your passwords and other personal information.
To make sure you don't become a victim of spyware, you should:
-Always ensure you have up-to-date antivirus and firewall software installed, and ask for technical support if your computer starts acting oddly.
-Consider using anti-spyware software. You should also download from the internet the latest security updates, known as patches, for your browser and for your operating system (such as Windows).
-You are also encouraged to make sure your browser is set to the highest level of security notification and monitoring. The safety options are not always activated by default when you install your computer.
-Keep your passwords and Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) a secret - don't write them down or tell anyone what they are.
-Maintain control over access to your computer, whether it is at your home or office.
-When you have completed a bank transaction, make certain to log off to break the connection with the bank's computer.
-Never conduct banking transactions while multiple browsers are open on your computer
-Never use your online banking login and password credentials to access any other site as that site might be compromised.
As your trusted technology partner, we will continue to keep you informed of the latest technology news and developments. If you have any questions or concerns about your online security, feel free to contact me or a member of our Technology Consulting Group, and we will be glad to help you.
Until next time,
David D. Baucum
President, CTSI
|
| 8 Ways to Help Maintain Your Computer and Devices at Work |
You most likely couldn't do your job without your computer and mobile devices. Every day you use them to work on files, connect with people, and access resources. Keeping them running smoothly is important to working effectively.
So how do you start?
At work your computer and devices are part of a larger network. Keeping them running means you have to work closely with your corporate IT department. Working with them will save you time, save your company money, and help keep the network secure. This article includes tips and best practices for working with your corporate IT department to keep your computer and devices up-to-date and functioning properly.
Who owns the computer?
You use a computer at work, you may take it home, and you might even have a picture of your kids on the computer desktop. The computer, though, isn't yours. It's important to realize that your company owns that computer. They have the right to install patches and updates on a regular basis. By doing so, they can make sure your computer and the network run as smoothly as possible.
"It's common for IT departments to get complaints about patches being put on computers," said Jim DuBois, a general manager for IT at Microsoft. "But it is the best way for companies to make sure the network and computers remain secure."
To further protect their computers, many companies even prevent users from making changes to the settings or software installed on the computer.
Best practices for maintaining your computer
Use these best practices to help maintain and protect the computer you use at work. You should contact your IT department to determine their specific policies.
1. Install all updates required by your IT department. Not installing updates as required by your IT department can expose your company to viruses and other security risks. Some companies even prevent computers from accessing the network if patches aren't installed after a set date. Also, find out whether the IT department wants you to install updates on Microsoft Update . If they do, make it a habit of checking Microsoft Update regularly. You'll save yourself the hassle of the IT department forcing you to install updates when it's not convenient for you.
2. Install only licensed programs. Make sure that you or your company have a license for any software you install on your work computer. Your company can get sued for having software without a license installed on its computers. For example, installing a program your friend bought could present some problems. Software that you've bought a license for is probably fine, but double-check the license to make sure. Sometimes, software bought for home use cannot be installed at work as well.
3. Don't install different versions of software. Even if you prefer the version of software you use at home rather than work, don't install it on your work computer. You could have incompatibility problems with the software your co-workers are using and with your specific line of business applications. Your IT department may also not be able to make any required updates or provide technical support.
4. Let IT know when hardware isn't working. Fixing a broken computer yourself could just cause more problems. Your fixes, for example, could make the computer incompatible with the corporate network. Most IT departments have a helpdesk or technical assistance program designed for this type of work. The IT department may have already seen the same problem and have a known fix. Helping your IT department track common computer problems can also help them decide which brand and make of computer to order in the future.
5. Let IT know when you need something. Giving the IT department reasonable requests and adequate time for planning can help them respond to your needs. Otherwise, you may end up with computer software or hardware you didn't want, which can hinder how effective you are at work.
6. Don't download programs from Internet sites you don't trust. By downloading programs that may not be secure, you put all the computers on the network at risk.
7. Be aware of suspicious e-mails. A virus introduced though e-mail may be disguised as a downloadable file. If an e-mail you receive is from someone you don't know, contains strange text, or otherwise looks suspicious, contact your IT department. If you open it, you could potentially cause problems for you and you co-workers. If it does contain a virus, the IT department can ask other employees in the organization to look for similar e-mails.
8. Use online support resources. Many IT departments have created online internal help sites that could provide an answer to your computer problem. Each day, Help desks typically receive many questions that are already answered at these sites.
|
|
|
| |
|
Save the Date
|
We are excited to announce the CTSI 25th Anniversary Client Appreciation Event on Thursday, April 15th at Fox & Hound English Pub and Grille, located at 4210 82nd Street from 5pm-8pm. We hope that you will be able to join us for drinks and appetizers. There will be many giveaways; you won't leave empty handed. So mark your calendar and save the date!
Be on the lookout for more details in an invitation by mail in the coming weeks. Or simply ask your CTSI associate and they'll be glad to provide you a personal invitation. RSVP
|
|
Tips of the Month
|
| Some handy time-saving shortcuts for both beginners and experts:
To open your Start Menu, Ctrl + Esc.
In Word: to select text, Shift + Right Arrow, Shift + Left Arrow,
Shift + Up Arrow, Shift + Down Arrow
Ctrl + S save the current file or document (works in most programs)
|
| Staff Spotlight |
|
What is your title and what do you do at CTSI?
I am an Application Developer. I am part of a team that designs and creates websites, web applications, and desktop applications.
How long have you been at CTSI?
- I've worked at CTSI for a year and a half.
Tell us about your family and pets.
- I have a wife, Lori, who is kind enough to put up with me and a 2-year-old golden retriever named Maggie.
What do you do in your free time?
- I like to learn new things, so I enjoy reading. I also like playing basketball and am always up for a board game.
If you weren't working in the business technology sector, what would you be doing?
- I was on my way to becoming a teacher before I decided on web development, so I would probably be teaching in a high school somewhere.
Tell us your favorite things about Lubbock.
- I have a lot of family in the area and, as odd as it sounds, I like the weather.
Tell us one thing that co-workers and clients don't know about you.
|
| Helen's Recipe of the Month |
Helen Burns, CTSI's Purchasing Manager, has been with the company for the past ten years. In addition to her purchasing duties, Helen serves as our unofficial party coordinator. Helen (with help from our administrative assistant, Nancy Clark) makes sure we celebrate every staff member's birthday as well as various holidays by providing a wide range of delectable treats. Without further ado, from Helen's kitchen to you!
CAPIROTADA
Southwest Traditional Lenten Dish
16 slices of bread
Butter or margarine for spreading
4 cups water
2 cups raisins
1 1/2 cup brown sugar
2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
2 cups grated Velveeta (or American) cheese
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.Combine water, raisins,brown sugar, and cinnamon in a medium-size saucepan and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Remove from heat & set aside. Toast bread on both sides, butter generously, and tear into pieces. In a deep baking dish (sprayed with non-stick spray) spread half the torn bread, sprinkle half the toasted almonds, pour half the sugar & raisin mixture moistening all the bread, and cover with half the cheese. Repeat with another layerof ingredients, topping with remaining cheese. Bake uncovered at 350 for 25 minutes and serve warm.
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