Hi.
A little story for you, if you are bored....
I occasional post my services and monitor pleas for help on a web board called Streetlife. Its based around the local community and its been pretty useful, informative, and I've had a little bit of work out of it.
However, my offer of assistance rattled one guys feathers, who, I suspect, I've come across before. It was a few years ago, and it was, and still is, the only time I've been threatened with legal action.
It involves a poor bloke called Peter, a competitor, ... and... Mel !
I've done a bit of editing of names and places, but the rest is verbatim...............
Peter : Anyone recommend someone to fix a computer problem, keep getting Riskware detected apcrtldr.dll message which appears constantly. Looking for a reasonable cost fix to remove this infection. Live in XXXXXXX, many thanks.
Newbie : Try Rob Gardner at Originalscan Computer Repairs on 07960 019234 or 0113 2161651. He is based in Cookridge and is very prompt and helpful.
ME : Wow, fame at last !
Seriously though, if you give me a call, we can go through the issue and hopefully get it resolved.
Domestic charge is £40 per hour,.... but I don't charge for having a chat.
Regards.
Maria : I've used Rob for years. And would again. Never had any complaint. Nice guy.
Competitor : Hi Peter,
I can also sort this out for you. I run XXXXXXX, have been trading for over 4 years and have hundreds of customers in the area including xxxxxxxx. I'm just off xxxxx Road near the cemetery. Please do let me know if you want someone else to chat to and an alternative quote.
Best regards
Peter : Many thanks but phoned TalkTalk and they fixed the problem but will keep your details for future use.
MEL : I had to smile at some of the above comments! I am now retired and live in xxxxxxxx.
I retired from working in the computer industry for over 30-years.
I run on Macintosh's but I am fully conversant with Windoze - and I have Windoze computers as well!
The first essential requirement is to get protection from virus and spyware.
There are plenty ofFREE and fully functional ones available.
Also, programs to remove junk and un-necessary files are required. Again, plenty of excellent - and, againFREE - ones are available. I utilise two on my Windoze PC.
The removal of these 'threats' is so very, very simple and doesn't cost anything. So, why pay someone else to do something that you can do ??
I helped my neighbour when he had problems with his laptop. The cost to him was bugger all. I did take quite a few hours of letting these programs do their thing though. All I did was to start the relevant programs and do nothing else!
So, now you know where to go to for free advice, and I do mean that.
This posting should piss off some of the 'so called' computer specialists.
Kind regards
Competitor : Hi Mel,
thanks for your comments which have not ****** me off!
I agree there are plenty of free programs that are very good, but some people do not want to or cannot, download, install and run them. Furthermore some types of infections disable security software, including the expensive paid for market leaders, and can compromise data. Not all threats are easily detected by commonly used tools.
I provide free software for home users whenever possible, depending on the clients requirements.
What was your specialism and when did you retire Mel?
Cheers
ME : Put it this way......
Throwing modesty to the wind, sometimes it can take several programs to remove an infection... And I know what I'm doing.
Even though a single run can appear to clear an infection, I always run another prog just to make sure, and more often than not there are residuals to clear up. And it doesn't stop there.
Yes, there are free programs available, as my learned colleague from XXXXXX mentioned.
Personally, most users either forget or are reluctant to manually run these programs on the regular basis they require.
Really, they should be running, scanning and more importantly updating by default,...... But of course, that costs.
I'm pretty sure the idea is to prevent getting infected in the first place, as opposed to having a repair utility on hand for the day the machine stops working.
I run a managed Antivirus system for £4 a month, which includes me monitoring, scanning, updating and sentencing infected files. And an awful lot of people are more than happy for someone with a bit of experience to look after it for them.
I've only met one gent in XXXXXXXXX who proclaimed 30 years experience, who was a friend of a couple running a business off their laptop.
I think they took a dim view of my suggesting they stop the kids downloading infectious junk
on the same machine as their clients details.
Their laptops had also had the license numbers removed, which apparently had been supplied by this gentleman. The same guy who rang me up the previous evening to ask my help on getting his broadband going.
This was a couple of years ago though, and probably not the previous poster.
MEL : Hi Competitor,
I am glad that you are not ****** off with what I posted - obviously, you are one of the genuine guys. There are too many cowboys around.
Yeah, I fully appreciate what you are saying. Mind you, if good infection detection software is running, then the infection will be quarantined.
I would never, ever entertain the likes of - Sofos or Symantec - for example. I know from first hand experience as to how they 'spread-eagle' the OS !!
I started in the computer industry in 1980 - repairing equipment down to component level! This, unfortunately, doesn't happen now as it it cheaper to get a replacement module. That really annoys me - but that is the way forward.
I do not wish to under cut you in anyway, but I fix for free (well, a Stella would be appreciated) - providing there is no hardware replacement --- which is very rare.
Up to the point when I retired (March 2014), I was in a repair workshop - at a very crap company - and I fixed anything that came through the door - ranging from whatever you care to think of .. computerwise! I have (and I am proud of) very extensive computer information - stored in the grey cells. Hand's on experience beats the hell out of sitting behind a desk ... and learning! Mind you, I do have qualifications.
Cheers
MEL : Hi Rob,
Who are you?
ME : "Try Rob Gardner at Originalscan Computer Repairs on 07960 019234 or 0113 2161651. He is based in Cookridge and is very prompt and helpful."
2nd post down.
MEL : Hi Rob,
Who?
ME : Rob Gardner
Former Welder, Leeds University Graduate, Gas Turbine Engineer, Development Metallurgist and unashamed geek.
Been running my own computer repair business for 12 years with a clientele achieved largely through word of mouth recommendation.... And I do a bit of work for charity.
Oh.... Size 10 shoes and the sense of humour comes free,..... as does most of my advice as shown in previous postings.
Hi.
To put this in perspective, I would advise any computer user having problems to ....
1. Make sure you have a backup of your important data.
A USB hard drive is a good idea but do NOT leave it plugged in, as viruses can hop around them.
2. Make sure you have a copy of any serial numbers of any software you have installed.
3. Do NOT Google for any telephone help lines.
I've known far too many people who have googled for, ie, "Kaspersky help lines", and have wound up paying some foreign call centre hundreds of pounds.
4. Ask any well-meaning family or friends for any help by all means, but remember, they are unlikely to have the appropriate recovery software, backup facilities or "finger on the pulse" to cover themselves, not to mention Insurance or any professional comeback
Are they aware of specific Microsoft updates which crash your machine ?
For example, An AVG update released last week recently crashed computers which used Quickbooks accounting software.
Removing conduit malware from XP machines via the normal add/remove programs can occasionally crash your machine, as the removal clears the root drive.
A particular nasty strain has been kicking around for a while called Cryptolocker, ...which encrypts your files. Removing that virus is a BAD idea (yes, that's right), until you have recovered those files.
Freeware antivirus software is all well and good up to a point, but there is a reason legit Computer technicians pay hundreds of pounds for their software packages.....
Think about it.
5. Treat any website offering free antivirus software with suspicion. A number of these are "clone sites", which resemble the original but include malware in the download. Sometimes the web address differs from the original by including spaces in the name.
6. If you DO download some software, don't hop through the installation screen without looking.
There are (unfortunately) normally a number of "FREE ADDONS", which I recommend you untick before proceeding.
In some cases, these options are hidden so beware.
7. Do NOT use download managers or any program advertised to speed up your computer. iLivid download manager is a particularly horrible one. That can open the flood gates.
8. Coupon toolbars are quite popular, and an easy way to get your machine infected. Mostly sponsored by malware, as are most "Free" online games,.... and don't even get me started on Gambling sites !....
There are lots more, but I've bored you enough already. Have a nice day.
PETER : Hi Mel, I seem to have started something and the solution was silly simple in the end. I use TalkTalk and have their protection system which works fine if I had set it properly . It detected the Riskware but was set to block it, not remove it so once set to remove, problem solved. Well I have once again learned something. We have one thing in common you and I we are both retired and live in xxxxxxx but I seem to be getting to the stage of needing a grandchild to even switch the computer on.
Regards Peter.
MEL : Oh ...... a few people seem to be annoyed by my posting .......
Doesn't bother me at all as I DO know what I am talking about.
Peter, there is a button to switch the computer on - but I know what you mean!
I run on Apple Macintoshes - as I used to be an Apple Accredited Service Engineer for about 20 years. I have a few PC's as well but rarely use them. There is a relevant need for them - I hasten to add.
I never throw any of my Macintoshes away - and I must have about 10 - and they all work!
Regards
MEL : Robert G,
Some things you have said are very sensible and I totally agree.
One or two you mentioned - they are a definiteNO NO. I am quite surprised that you said that!
ME : Erm....I think Apologies to Peter are in order here for hijacking his thread.
"I have a few PC's as well but rarely use them".
Your words.
Anyway.
I would value your opinion on the points you have an issue on.
If I'm wrong, I'd like to know.
I'm not infallible and welcome any opportunity to broaden my expertise.
MEL : Puzzled here! I don't have any issues about anything.....
---------------
It was at this point, i left the conversation as it was apparent he had lost the ability to remember his own words.
AAAAARRRRRHHHHH !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Better.now.
A little story for you, if you are bored....
I occasional post my services and monitor pleas for help on a web board called Streetlife. Its based around the local community and its been pretty useful, informative, and I've had a little bit of work out of it.
However, my offer of assistance rattled one guys feathers, who, I suspect, I've come across before. It was a few years ago, and it was, and still is, the only time I've been threatened with legal action.
It involves a poor bloke called Peter, a competitor, ... and... Mel !
I've done a bit of editing of names and places, but the rest is verbatim...............
Peter : Anyone recommend someone to fix a computer problem, keep getting Riskware detected apcrtldr.dll message which appears constantly. Looking for a reasonable cost fix to remove this infection. Live in XXXXXXX, many thanks.
Newbie : Try Rob Gardner at Originalscan Computer Repairs on 07960 019234 or 0113 2161651. He is based in Cookridge and is very prompt and helpful.
ME : Wow, fame at last !
Seriously though, if you give me a call, we can go through the issue and hopefully get it resolved.
Domestic charge is £40 per hour,.... but I don't charge for having a chat.
Regards.
Maria : I've used Rob for years. And would again. Never had any complaint. Nice guy.
Competitor : Hi Peter,
I can also sort this out for you. I run XXXXXXX, have been trading for over 4 years and have hundreds of customers in the area including xxxxxxxx. I'm just off xxxxx Road near the cemetery. Please do let me know if you want someone else to chat to and an alternative quote.
Best regards
Peter : Many thanks but phoned TalkTalk and they fixed the problem but will keep your details for future use.
MEL : I had to smile at some of the above comments! I am now retired and live in xxxxxxxx.
I retired from working in the computer industry for over 30-years.
I run on Macintosh's but I am fully conversant with Windoze - and I have Windoze computers as well!
The first essential requirement is to get protection from virus and spyware.
There are plenty ofFREE and fully functional ones available.
Also, programs to remove junk and un-necessary files are required. Again, plenty of excellent - and, againFREE - ones are available. I utilise two on my Windoze PC.
The removal of these 'threats' is so very, very simple and doesn't cost anything. So, why pay someone else to do something that you can do ??
I helped my neighbour when he had problems with his laptop. The cost to him was bugger all. I did take quite a few hours of letting these programs do their thing though. All I did was to start the relevant programs and do nothing else!
So, now you know where to go to for free advice, and I do mean that.
This posting should piss off some of the 'so called' computer specialists.
Kind regards
Competitor : Hi Mel,
thanks for your comments which have not ****** me off!
I agree there are plenty of free programs that are very good, but some people do not want to or cannot, download, install and run them. Furthermore some types of infections disable security software, including the expensive paid for market leaders, and can compromise data. Not all threats are easily detected by commonly used tools.
I provide free software for home users whenever possible, depending on the clients requirements.
What was your specialism and when did you retire Mel?
Cheers
ME : Put it this way......
Throwing modesty to the wind, sometimes it can take several programs to remove an infection... And I know what I'm doing.
Even though a single run can appear to clear an infection, I always run another prog just to make sure, and more often than not there are residuals to clear up. And it doesn't stop there.
Yes, there are free programs available, as my learned colleague from XXXXXX mentioned.
Personally, most users either forget or are reluctant to manually run these programs on the regular basis they require.
Really, they should be running, scanning and more importantly updating by default,...... But of course, that costs.
I'm pretty sure the idea is to prevent getting infected in the first place, as opposed to having a repair utility on hand for the day the machine stops working.
I run a managed Antivirus system for £4 a month, which includes me monitoring, scanning, updating and sentencing infected files. And an awful lot of people are more than happy for someone with a bit of experience to look after it for them.
I've only met one gent in XXXXXXXXX who proclaimed 30 years experience, who was a friend of a couple running a business off their laptop.
I think they took a dim view of my suggesting they stop the kids downloading infectious junk
on the same machine as their clients details.
Their laptops had also had the license numbers removed, which apparently had been supplied by this gentleman. The same guy who rang me up the previous evening to ask my help on getting his broadband going.
This was a couple of years ago though, and probably not the previous poster.
MEL : Hi Competitor,
I am glad that you are not ****** off with what I posted - obviously, you are one of the genuine guys. There are too many cowboys around.
Yeah, I fully appreciate what you are saying. Mind you, if good infection detection software is running, then the infection will be quarantined.
I would never, ever entertain the likes of - Sofos or Symantec - for example. I know from first hand experience as to how they 'spread-eagle' the OS !!
I started in the computer industry in 1980 - repairing equipment down to component level! This, unfortunately, doesn't happen now as it it cheaper to get a replacement module. That really annoys me - but that is the way forward.
I do not wish to under cut you in anyway, but I fix for free (well, a Stella would be appreciated) - providing there is no hardware replacement --- which is very rare.
Up to the point when I retired (March 2014), I was in a repair workshop - at a very crap company - and I fixed anything that came through the door - ranging from whatever you care to think of .. computerwise! I have (and I am proud of) very extensive computer information - stored in the grey cells. Hand's on experience beats the hell out of sitting behind a desk ... and learning! Mind you, I do have qualifications.
Cheers
MEL : Hi Rob,
Who are you?
ME : "Try Rob Gardner at Originalscan Computer Repairs on 07960 019234 or 0113 2161651. He is based in Cookridge and is very prompt and helpful."
2nd post down.
MEL : Hi Rob,
Who?
ME : Rob Gardner
Former Welder, Leeds University Graduate, Gas Turbine Engineer, Development Metallurgist and unashamed geek.
Been running my own computer repair business for 12 years with a clientele achieved largely through word of mouth recommendation.... And I do a bit of work for charity.
Oh.... Size 10 shoes and the sense of humour comes free,..... as does most of my advice as shown in previous postings.
Hi.
To put this in perspective, I would advise any computer user having problems to ....
1. Make sure you have a backup of your important data.
A USB hard drive is a good idea but do NOT leave it plugged in, as viruses can hop around them.
2. Make sure you have a copy of any serial numbers of any software you have installed.
3. Do NOT Google for any telephone help lines.
I've known far too many people who have googled for, ie, "Kaspersky help lines", and have wound up paying some foreign call centre hundreds of pounds.
4. Ask any well-meaning family or friends for any help by all means, but remember, they are unlikely to have the appropriate recovery software, backup facilities or "finger on the pulse" to cover themselves, not to mention Insurance or any professional comeback
Are they aware of specific Microsoft updates which crash your machine ?
For example, An AVG update released last week recently crashed computers which used Quickbooks accounting software.
Removing conduit malware from XP machines via the normal add/remove programs can occasionally crash your machine, as the removal clears the root drive.
A particular nasty strain has been kicking around for a while called Cryptolocker, ...which encrypts your files. Removing that virus is a BAD idea (yes, that's right), until you have recovered those files.
Freeware antivirus software is all well and good up to a point, but there is a reason legit Computer technicians pay hundreds of pounds for their software packages.....
Think about it.
5. Treat any website offering free antivirus software with suspicion. A number of these are "clone sites", which resemble the original but include malware in the download. Sometimes the web address differs from the original by including spaces in the name.
6. If you DO download some software, don't hop through the installation screen without looking.
There are (unfortunately) normally a number of "FREE ADDONS", which I recommend you untick before proceeding.
In some cases, these options are hidden so beware.
7. Do NOT use download managers or any program advertised to speed up your computer. iLivid download manager is a particularly horrible one. That can open the flood gates.
8. Coupon toolbars are quite popular, and an easy way to get your machine infected. Mostly sponsored by malware, as are most "Free" online games,.... and don't even get me started on Gambling sites !....
There are lots more, but I've bored you enough already. Have a nice day.
PETER : Hi Mel, I seem to have started something and the solution was silly simple in the end. I use TalkTalk and have their protection system which works fine if I had set it properly . It detected the Riskware but was set to block it, not remove it so once set to remove, problem solved. Well I have once again learned something. We have one thing in common you and I we are both retired and live in xxxxxxx but I seem to be getting to the stage of needing a grandchild to even switch the computer on.
Regards Peter.
MEL : Oh ...... a few people seem to be annoyed by my posting .......
Doesn't bother me at all as I DO know what I am talking about.
Peter, there is a button to switch the computer on - but I know what you mean!
I run on Apple Macintoshes - as I used to be an Apple Accredited Service Engineer for about 20 years. I have a few PC's as well but rarely use them. There is a relevant need for them - I hasten to add.
I never throw any of my Macintoshes away - and I must have about 10 - and they all work!
Regards
MEL : Robert G,
Some things you have said are very sensible and I totally agree.
One or two you mentioned - they are a definiteNO NO. I am quite surprised that you said that!
ME : Erm....I think Apologies to Peter are in order here for hijacking his thread.
"I have a few PC's as well but rarely use them".
Your words.
Anyway.
I would value your opinion on the points you have an issue on.
If I'm wrong, I'd like to know.
I'm not infallible and welcome any opportunity to broaden my expertise.
MEL : Puzzled here! I don't have any issues about anything.....
---------------
It was at this point, i left the conversation as it was apparent he had lost the ability to remember his own words.
AAAAARRRRRHHHHH !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Better.now.
