Virus Alert: CryptoWall Ransomware

If you attempt to open your MS Word, Excel, etc. documents and they appear corrupt or display an error message, it is possible that your computer has been infected by the CryptoWall virus.

CryptoWall is file-encrypting ransomware that was released around the end of April 2014 that targets all versions of Windows.  The CryptoWall virus is a Trojan Horse that encrypts your computer's data files and holds the user hostage, requesting payment of $500 in Bitcoins to release and decrypt their files. 

If you are not experienced in dealing with this type of virus we suggest contacting an experienced company to deal with the problem.  MBC Solutions is one such company that can help you remove the virus and also suggest a schedule of backups, and anti-virus software to help avoid such issues in the future.

The bottom line is this virus is sophisticated and almost scary-friendly in how it offers to decrypt your files for a price.  The ultimate decision is yours as to whether you pay the ransom or not.  Paying a criminal will validate their actions but there may not be another method of recovering your files. Your decision depends upon any backups you may have and the value of your data files.  An experienced technician can explain your options in greater detail and help you through the process.

As always...software protections, regular backups and avoiding clicking any links in emails are common and required precautions these days.

Learn More: A Technical Overview of the CryptoWall Virus from TechRepublic.

Need Help?”": Contact an Experienced Technician at MBC Solutions.

What Do Your Website Users Really Want?

This article by Paul Boag is an excellent overview that is very factual and important to understand as a business owner.  While the discussion centers on websites, I believe this applies to many areas of your business.

“The truth is people have no interest in using applications or websites. They are tools for a goal. They want to use your website or application for the smallest amount of time. Just enough to achieve the result that they are looking for.

People don’t use Facebook for the user interface. They use it to keep in touch with their friends. They don’t visit your website to see your gorgeous branding or engaging video. They just want to get the information they need and get out.”

Read The Article Here!

I’ve meet many business owners who I would call “Old School” in their vision of what to show customers.  From websites, to print advertising, to billboards.  This “Old School” vision is understandable from the owner’s perspective.  They are paying good money for an advertisement and want to cram as much information into that ad-space as possible.  More bang for the buck…they say.  The reality is that they desire an ad they like and often forget that they should be creating an ad their customers like.  That owner will read their own ad carefully…their customer will only skim.

In this modern world, time is very limited.  Customers want the facts and only the facts, and if you want to live in the customer’s memory, if you want them to remember your message…you need to be short, sweet, simple, repetitive and consistent.

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You Need a Website…and You Need One That Doesn’t Suck

If you own any business and don't have a website, you need to correct that now!  If you don't have a website, you won't be taken seriously.  It is today's equivalent to not having a phone number.  The world today is about being online and if your business isn't...you don't exist, you appear to not care about your customers or your company and you look unprofessional.  It doesn't matter if you don't believe a website is important.  As with most things in business, you don't do it because you like or want it...you do it because your customers want and expect you to have one.  A nice one.  A helpful one.  One they can visit, see who you are and what you do, contact you, call you and judge you based upon the effort you put into presenting them with something beautiful, functional and informational.  If not...you come off looking like you don't care about your customers.  And if your website is junky, customers will believe your product or service is of the same caliber.

Read The Whole Article Here!

Includes:

Your Business Needs a Website!

You Are Not A Website Designer!

Google Doesn't See What You See!

Over 60% of Website Visitors are Using Mobile Devices!

I Don't Like Social Media Either...But That is Where Your Customers Live!

Online Advertising Works When Done Correctly!