Tag Archives: Apple

Apple iMessage Breach Last Month

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Internet trolls can breach any type of system if it is not properly secured. Emails and software are just two ways they can infiltrate your pc without your awareness.

The motivations for these attacks range from stealing data to financial gain. They also crash business computers in order to shut them down. One breach, in particular, occurred last month against the software giant, Apple.

Apple’s iMessage Security Breach

Apple has put out a new security update to fix a flaw that caused a software breach for months, The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported Monday (Sept. 13).

NSO Group, an Israeli cybersecurity firm, has been exploiting a vulnerability to silently infect iPhones using iMessage since February, WSJ reported, citing research group Citizen Lab, which looks into cyberattacks on “journalists and dissidents.”

The intrusion was ominous to Citizen Lab because it was a “zero click” attack, referring to an attack in which the user doesn’t need to click a link or open a document to be attacked, according to the report.

John Scott-Railton, one of the Citizen Lab researchers, told WSJ that “anyone with iMessage” could be infected unknowingly. He added that the software was “rare and probably expensive,” and that it likely was developed with a substantial amount of work.

Source: Pymnts.com

What can you do?

You can take steps to improve your cyber-defenses, such as making sure your important files and data are backed up to secure cloud storage. We recommend Carbonite online backup solutions which will safeguard your data against any type of attack or dilemma.


If you are needing assistance with any malware issues, please give us a call at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities.  This blog post is brought by our staff at Arlington Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Arlington, TX please call the local office at (817) 756-6008.

Child Safety Features Coming to iOS

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Apple is currently working on a feature for iPhone, iPad, and Macs’ Message App. This particular one will solely focus on child safety. When receiving or sending inappropriate graphic photographs, it will alert youngsters and their parents.

When a child attempts to view a photo flagged as sensitive in the Messages app, they will be alerted that the photo may contain private body parts, and that the photo may be hurtful. Depending on the age of the child, there will also be an option for parents to receive a notification if their child proceeds to view the sensitive photo or if they choose to send a sexually explicit photo to another contact after being warned.

Source: MacRumors
Controversial Feature

While many users are happy about this extra step of protection, others are not. According to an Apple Privacy Letter, “On August 5th, 2021, Apple Inc. announced new technological measures meant to apply across virtually all of its devices under the umbrella of “Expanded Protections for Children”. While child exploitation is a serious problem, and while efforts to combat it are almost unquestionably well-intentioned, Apple’s proposal introduces a backdoor that threatens to undermine fundamental privacy protections for all users of Apple products.““

It’s uncertain how much privacy is lost due to this upcoming child safety feature. The pros and cons seem to possibly go back and forth.

Helpful tip: When users ask Siri how they may report CSAM (Child Sexual Abuse Material) or child exploitation, they will be directed to materials explaining where and how to submit a report.

For help with computer security issues, call us at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you by our staff at the Cypress Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Cypress, TX please call or text the local office at (281) 860-2550.

Update to Safari 15

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If you have macOS, be sure to update it to the latest version of the Safari browser. This particular update includes security and performance enhancements.

Safari 15 has a new design with rounder, more defined tabs with transparency support, and a couple of features, like a small tab bar alternative that can be switched on or off.

According to Apple, here’s what it features:

“Safari 15 delivers faster performance, improved security, and the following new features:

       • Tab Groups help you save and organize your tabs and easily access them across devices

       • Redesigned tabs have a rounder and more defined appearance and take on the color of the webpage

       • Compact tab bar option shows more of your web page on screen

       • HTTPS upgrade automatically switches sites from HTTP to more secure HTTPS when available”

To install, simply open up System Preferences and then to Software Update. It doesn’t require a Restart, thankfully.

For help with any computer issues, call us at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you by our staff at the Pasadena Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Pasadena, TX please call or text the local office at (281) 860-2550.

Why is your MacBook’s Fans Running?

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If you have a MacBook, you will want to read up on this.

Fun Fact: A MacBook Pro fan should always be available. It should not, however, be too loud or operate at a high pace all of the time. If it is at maximum RPM (typically about 6000 on a Macbook Pro), this suggests that there is software on your Mac that is straining the CPU or GPU.

Here are a few ways you can remedy this situation:

-Reboot your MacBook. If the fan is always spinning at full power, try restarting it.

-Remove Flash in your browser. Flash is currently disabled by default in Firefox. Flashcontrol is a Chrome extension that allows you to deactivate Flash instances (it still allows you to view Flash on a per-site basis as needed). This is one of the most common sources of CPU/GPU stress, and it will undoubtedly boost the fan speed because Flash is so demanding on hardware.

-Clear your browser history, and if you have multiple tabs open, close them.

Launch Activity Monitor to check which programs are consuming the most CPU power. You can also check which applications are consuming the most energy. Certain apps tend to cause the fans to speed up since the temperature of your CPU/GPU rises when you use them.

For help updating, restoring or dealing with any MacBook issues, call us at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you from our staff at the Denver Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Denver, CO please call or text the local office at (720) 441-6460.

How to Use Dictate on a Mac

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Dictation, Apple’s fully featured accessibility tool, is simple to use. It also does a good job of interpreting your voice. And not everyone enjoys typing. Fortunately, Apple’s software allows you to say what you want to type instead of typing it.

“Do you want to enable dictation?”

To quickly enable Dictation on your Mac, head over to your System Preferences. Next, click Keyboard. Once there, click on the Dictation tab. You will be able to turn it on and select your language and a shortcut.

After you’ve enabled Dictation, begin speaking what you want to put in to see it appear on your screen. This also implies that you must dictate punctuation. Apple recommends dictating in small intervals of 40 seconds or less. You can talk far more quickly than your Mac can receive.

To stop dictating you can either click your shortcut button, click done under the microphone, or simply click return.

While your Mac is analyzing your dictated words, they show underlined. After you have finished dictating, the reformat themselves, as well as any words that your Mac has queried.

Things you need to know about Dictation

Dictation connects with Apple servers in order to transform your speech to text. As a result, it is never totally private. Dictation files can be saved and reviewed by Apple. They do this to enhance dictation, but you can turn it off in Security & Privacy of System Settings.

To utilize Dictation on a MacBook, you must have an active Internet connection. Apple uses linguistic data to analyze your speech on its servers. You will be unable to utilize Dictation if you do not have an internet connection.

Hope this helps make work or school a bit easier!

If you are having issues with your computer and would like some assistance, please give us a call at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities.  This blog post is brought to you from our staff at the Arvada Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Arvada, CO please call the local office at (720) 441-6460 or schedule an appointment at www.arvadacomputerrepairservice.com.

Apple Announces Event

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This new event, like WWDC and last year’s fall events, will be controlled online, with no members of the media invited to attend in person.

Apple appears to be able to provide pre-recorded portions for each new product that is announced. Apple said today that it will conduct a special event on September 14th.

Their main focus on this event will be surrounding the iPhone 13, the AirPods 3, and the Apple Watch series 7.

The event is likely to be the first of several in the first few months of 2021, following Apple’s request to unveil numerous products in three events over three months in 2020.

Rumors suggest that there will be at least two Apple events this autumn, most likely in the month of September.

For any Apple inquiries, call us at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you from our staff at the Arvada Computer Repair Service. If you need better SEO or computer repair in Arvada, CO please call or text the local office at (720) 441-6460.

How to Know What OS Your Mac is Utilizing

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While this may seem like a simple, unneeded bit of information, knowing what operating system your Mac computer is using can help when you’re needing certain aspects of features – which often requires a certain version. If you have the wrong version, it may not work for you.

The OS software controls your entire computer, including memory and hardware devices like printers and drivers. It works with the CPU (central processing unit) to make sure your computer runs the best it can. The software and the hardware go hand-in-hand.

Here’s how to find out what OS your Mac uses:

  1. Go to the Apple Menu Icon
  2. Click on “About This Mac”

From there, you’ll see the overview of information, including the name and version. There are a plethora of names, including Catalina, Mojave, and High Sierra.

In order to get the most out of your Mac, make sure that your operating system is up to date with the newest version. This will allow security to be on top of its game. Simply click on the Software Update button and follow the prompts.

If you ever have an issue with any macOS updates, give us a call at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you by our staff at the Atlanta Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Atlanta, GA please call or text the local office at (678) 695-8120.

Ventilating Your Computer

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Computers require ventilation and fans to ensure its hardware’s longevity. Overheated components can cause the PC to crash and fail. This could result in loss of data and personal information.

Dust Buildup

Over time, dust builds in computer cases and even laptops. This causes obstructing fans and restricting air movement. Unfortunately, trapping heat and preventing your PC from adequately cooling itself could cause even bigger problems. Clean your computer’s casing on a regular basis.

Now, if dust isn’t clogging it but it’s still overheating, the fan may not be working properly. It may need replaced, or it might have just come unplugged.

Another tip to remember is to keep the room clutter-free and cool. Make sure nothing is blocking the vents or fans. A warm environment could spell disaster for your computer. Humidity often becomes a culprit of PC issues.

Prolonged exposure to high humidity corrodes the components inside your computer, similar to the way damp air on a rainy day rusts metal left outdoors. When the computer’s metal and electronic pieces corrode, they can lose their conductivity, resulting in short circuits or complete computer failure. Computers should be kept in areas where the humidity level is around 45-50%. Keep them away from humidifiers and damp areas like bathrooms to prevent corrosion.

Source: AnytimeHVAC

Temperature Changes

Like the inside, it’s best not to leave your device out in the sun. Doing so can also ruin the battery. Sources say to keep the temperature within 70-80 degrees. Apple says their devices include an automatic regulation, shown below:

iPhones come with a temperature sensor, so if the device overheats it sends a notification to the user. It immediately pauses any phone activity until the temperature drops.

For inquiries with any computer issues, call us at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you from our staff at the Frisco Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Frisco, TX please call or text the local office at (469) 299-9005.

Mac Users Can Use iPad as Second Display

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If you feel that your Mac needs something extra to handle your overloaded work space, look no further. MacOS Catalina users can use their iPad as a second display with an incredibly handy feature called Sidecar.

The Sidecar feature requires certain system requirements, which include using macOS Catalina and iOS 13 on your iPad.

Source: Apple Support

For your Mac to use Sidecar, connecting/disconnecting is easy. Simply click on the AirPlay icon and allow it to connect/disconnect to your iPad. From there you can move any open windows to it. Works like a charm! The quicker way to move a Window over is the drop down displayed through the green full-screen button (right next to the red and orange buttons). The options include “Enter Full Screen”, Tile Window to Left of Screen”, “Tile Window to Right of Screen”, and “Move to iPad Pro”. Not only is it quick, but this will also resize to your iPad display automatically.

For help with any MacOS problems, call us at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you from our staff at the Frisco Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Frisco, TX please call or text the local office at (469) 299-9005.

MacBook Temperature Tips

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Basic measures should be taken to safeguard your equipment’s hardware. MacBook users may notice an increase of warmth coming from their device as a result of daily use. Thankfully, MacBooks include sensors to detect overheating in certain components. It then turns on fans to automatically cool them down.

The importance of these factors rely on avoiding malfunctions and crashes. If the computer overheats, damage to it could destroy any saved important files and/or documents. No one wants that to happen.

Apple says to use Activity Monitor to check CPU activity when your device is warmer than normal. Be sure your software is updated to the latest version.

Also, keep the computer away from heat. If you must take your devices outside, keep them away from direct sunlight. Allow your equipment to gradually cool down to avoid overheating from extended time in the sun. Don’t attempt to cool it down rapidly.

Use your Mac notebook where the ambient temperature is between 50° and 95° F (10° and 35° C). Don’t leave your Mac notebook in your car, because temperatures in parked cars can exceed this range. You should also use your Mac notebook where the relative humidity is between 0% and 95% (noncondensing).

Source: Apple

For inquiries about Apple devices, call us at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you from our staff at the Denver Computer Repair Service, if you need computer repair in Denver, CO please call or text the local office at (720) 441-6460.