So, the 14th of October 2025 is the official Windows 10 End of Life.
Don’t let the Fearmongers force you to lash out on a new computer.
If you are an everyday type of user, browsing the net, checking a few emails & doing a bit of shopping, as long as you have a decent anti-virus (preferably a paid version) you should be absolutely fine for the next 2-4 years. By then you’ll probably be looking forward to your next computer (Windows 12,13…)
Of course, if you are part of a large organisation or a power user things are different, with compliance issues and such.
Lot’s of perfectly good older computers can still be upgraded to windows 11, even if they say that they can’t….
Give us a call to discuss your options, or drop by for a free check over to see what’s available for your trusty steed.
For more computer services, pop in to see us at Frolic House ( between Newtown Medical Practice and Driving Test Centre ) | Call 01686 610 106 | Message 0783 222 7823
Yet another one of those evil scam calls. This time, it was a fake BT Service Call. Thankfully my client didn’t hand over any quids or details, but the scammer locked the computer with a hidden password & encrypted all of his files, when he ended the call. Very malicious!
It took a while to extract & de-crypt all those gigabytes, but thankfully everything important was recovered…Phew! Full re-install of windows & scan of the recovered files, and we’re done.
Malicious is right! 😡 It’s a reminder that these scammers don’t just want your money; they want to cause chaos. I’m just glad we could recover the important stuff this time.
If you’re ever unsure about a ‘service call,’ just hang up. If you need a hand securing your tech or want a quick check-up, give me a shout or swing by the counter. 🏢🛡️
I’m not one to usually rush into the latest updates, as I like to see if the world still works before jumping in. Understanding how a Microsoft Patch / Update can affect your system is important before deciding to install it right away.
However, there’s an urgent update from Microsoft that addresses some VERY important security issues, and has had my inbox inundated this morning by some large tech companies urging the importance of applying this fix.
From what I’ve read, I’m updating my systems now (after a full backup, of course) and would advise you to do the same.
Just go to “Windows Update” via “Settings” and check/install like the pic below:
Apple is now warning users in 98 countries of potential mercenary spyware attacks.
The message sent to the affected users says:
“Apple detected that you are being targeted by a mercenary spyware attack that is trying to remotely compromise the iPhone associated with your Apple ID.”
In the same message, Apple says that it is very likely that the person in question is being specifically targeted because of what they do or who they are. And, although there is a certain margin of error, the user should take this warning seriously.
Mercenary spyware is used by governments to target people like journalists, political activists, and similar targets, and involves the use of sophisticated tools like Pegasus. Pegasus is one of the world’s most advanced and invasive spyware tools, known to utilize zero-day vulnerabilities against mobile devices.
On the website that explains Apple threat notifications and protection against mercenary spyware, it specifically mentions Pegasus:
“According to public reporting and research by civil society organizations, technology firms, and journalists, individually targeted attacks of such exceptional cost and complexity have historically been associated with state actors, including private companies developing mercenary spyware on their behalf, such as Pegasus from the NSO Group.”
Apple has sent out similar notifications multiple times a year since 2021 but doesn’t disclose how it determines who to send them to, since that might aid attackers in evading future detection.
Amnesty International urges those that have received such a notification to take it seriously.
Amnesty’s Security Lab offers digital forensic support to potential victims like human rights defenders, activists, journalists and members of civil society.
If you are a member of civil society, and you have received an Apple notification, you can contact Amnesty International and request forensic support using the Get Help form.
Whether you’ve received that notification or not, every iPhone user should make sure they have the latest updates, protect the device with a passcode, use multi-factor authentication and a strong password for Apple ID, only install apps from the Apple Play store, use a mobile security product, and be careful what they open or tap on.
People that have reason to believe they might be individually targeted by mercenary spyware attacks, can enable Lockdown Mode on their Apple devices for additional protection.
“Lockdown Mode” does the following:
Blocks most message attachments
Blocks incoming FaceTime calls from people you have not called previously
Blocks some web technologies and browsing features
Excludes location from shared photo’s and removes Shared Albums
Blocks wired connections when the device is locked
Blocks auto-joining non-secure WiFi networks
Blocks incoming invitations from people you have not previously invited
Blocks installation of configuration profiles you may require for work or school
How to turn on Lockdown Mode on iPhone or iPad
Open the Settings app.
Tap Privacy & Security.
Scroll down, tap Lockdown Mode.
Tap Turn On Lockdown Mode.
Read what it does and tap Turn On Lockdown Mode if that is what you want.
Tap Turn On & Restart, then enter your device passcode.
🛡️ Is Your Digital Life Under Lock and Key?
While most of us won’t be targeted by state-level mercenary spyware, the basic principles of digital defense apply to everyone. If your iPhone or computer contains irreplaceable data—from family photos to business accounts—now is the time to ensure it’s safe.
At Bluesdigital, we don’t just fix hardware; we protect your digital world. If you’re worried about security, need help setting up Lockdown Mode, or want to secure your data with a “fail-safe” backup system, we are your local experts for Newtown computer services.
Don’t wait for a warning notification to act.
Data Recovery: If the worst has already happened, we can help retrieve your vital files.
Secure Backups: We’ll set up a robust system so your data survives even if your device is compromised.
Secure your tech today: ☎️ Call: 01686 610 106 📱 Text: 0783 222 7823 📍 Visit us: Frolic House, Newtown (Right between the Medical Practice & Driving Test Centre)
Oh dear…Major IT outages are hitting industries across the world, and in NewtownToo! (Morrisons, Nidec) With airlines, broadcasters and supermarkets amongst the many who are affected.
This is happening after the Banking issues on the 28th of last month, messing with transactions & the last Microsoft Azure/Bing explosion we reported on here, back in May this year.
If you are off shopping, it might be worth taking a little cash today
All Bluesdigital systems are currently working:
Payment Systems & Banking ✔️
Web & Email Hosting Services ✔️
Mobile & Fibre Internet Services ✔️
Print Services ✔️
UPDATE: 22-07-2024
Looks like things are slowly returning to normal. I’m still hearing of a few problems from customers using the English NHS and access to patient records, along with some Airport/Travel delays, but overall, pretty good considering the initial impact of one AntiVirus program update.
We’ve got some great deals on our fav’ Anti-Virus, Malwarebytes Premium.
Keep your tech safe! 🛡️✨
Standard security isn’t always enough for today’s threats. We’ve got some fantastic deals on our favourite protection: Malwarebytes Premium. It’s lightweight, powerful, and catches what others miss! 🚫🦠
For the best Newtown computer services and advice on keeping your devices secure, give us a shout. We can get you set up in no time!
Get in touch:
☎️ Call: 01686 610 106
📱 Text: 0783 222 7823
📍 Visit us: Frolic House, Newtown (Between the Medical Practice & Driving Test Centre)
I just caught this “Netflix” scam email hitting my inbox. At a quick glance, it looks pretty authentic, but once you look closer, the cracks start to show. 🕵️♂️
How to spot the fake:
The Grammar: Keep an eye out for awkward phrasing and spelling errors—legitimate companies usually get these right.
The Link: If you hover over the button (don’t click!), the link goes to a dodgy-looking scam site, not Netflix.com.
The Sender: The email address it came from was a random string of characters—definitely not an official Netflix domain.
Scammers are getting better, but they still make mistakes. If an email feels “off,” it probably is!
Is your tech protected? 🛡️
If you’ve accidentally clicked a suspicious link or you’re worried that your computer might have picked up something nasty, bring it into our Newtown computer shop.
We offer full security health checks, virus removal, and expert advice to keep your personal data safe. Don’t let the scammers win—pop into Frolic House and we’ll make sure your security is watertight.
Get in touch: ☎️ Call: 01686 610 106 📱 Text: 0783 222 7823 📍 Visit us: Frolic House, Newtown (Right between the Medical Practice & Driving Test Centre)
It’s a bit of a Grumpy Old Man topic, but the “Subscription” based revenue stream explosion over the last few years, kinda grinds my gears. The best deals are pretty much always for new subscribers, leaving current customers of anti-virus subscriptions to pay full whack or more!
My latest grump is with AVG and their Anti-Virus Subscription
A good customer of mine has been with them for many years, and she is currently paying £160 for a two-year subscription. It’s bad enough that they prey on the nervous by bombarding them with pop-ups, employing scare tactics about “Hackers” and the like attacking them, so that they can upsell even more doubtful security “add-ons”. Shame on you, AVG. You used to be so good.
What I would advise is buying a non-subscription version from a friendly computer shop or Amazon. That way, you get the best price, and they don’t have your card details to “Auto-Renew”
My personal fav’s are:
1: Malwarebytes
2: Kaspersky
3: BitDefender
🛡️ Take Control of Your Security (and Your Wallet)
Don’t let “big tech” scare you into paying over the odds. If your anti-virus is constantly pestering you with pop-ups or your subscription feels like a ransom, it’s time for a change.
As your local computer shop in Newtown, we believe in honest security that protects your PC without draining your bank account. We can help you ditch the expensive “auto-renewals” and get you set up with a reliable, straightforward security solution that puts you back in the driving seat.
Pop in for a Security Health Check:
Fair Pricing: We’ll help you find the best protection without the hidden “loyalty tax.”
No Pressure: We give you the facts, not the scare tactics.
Local Support: If you have a question, you can talk to a real person, not a bot.
Visit us at Frolic House: ☎️ Call: 01686 610 106 📱 Text: 0783 222 7823 📍 Find us: Frolic House, Newtown (Between the Medical Practice & Driving Test Centre)
