Here are our 5 must-do jobs to clean up your tech:

1. Clean your Hardware – Remove crumbs and dust from your PC or laptop – you can use compressed air to help blast the debris out from nooks and crannies (be sure to follow the instructions). Use a damp microfibre cloth to clean the casing, screen, smartphone and tablet.
2. Cut the Clutter – Remove unused apps (if you are unsure which apps you should leave you can check here). Freeing up space by deleting unwanted apps and software will speed up your device and help it last longer.
3. Have a Sort out – Go through your files and photos, delete duplicates, old screenshots and any that are blurry and get them organised into folders – be sure to back them up to an external drive. Print your faves and put them up to enjoy!
4. Clear the Cache – When you visit a website or open an app for the first time your device collects data and stores it in order to make it quicker to load in the future. Over time this cached data can cause your devices to run slower so it makes sense to periodically clear the cache.
5. Update Your Operating System and Antivirus – Make sure your devices are running the latest operating system – any known bugs and security issues will get fixed and your devices will run more efficiently. Antivirus is a non negotiable – make sure it’s up to date and running to protect your devices from phishing, hacks and viruses.

Have fun clearing out some garbage and give your devices a well deserved spruce up.

If you need any help cleaning your laptop, PC, smartphone or tablet then we are always on hand. Contact Ben here: https://www.filegenie.co.uk/get-in-touch.html

But an increase in online shopping means we’re at more risk of falling for scams and the National Cyber Security Centre is warning shoppers to be extra vigilant as fraudsters employ artificial intelligence (AI) to dupe victims. ​

This month we’ve put together a helpful list of dos and don’ts to help you stay safe when shopping online during the festive season.

Make Sure Your Device is Secure
However you shop online – whether on your smartphone, tablet or PC, always make sure your device is up to date with the latest operating system. This will ensure you are protected against any security or privacy weaknesses. If you haven’t already, then install a reputable antivirus software and remember to check for updates regularly.

Be Careful Where you Shop
Generally, you’re safer when shopping on sites for well-known big brands – they should have robust security systems to help prevent data breaches. This doesn’t mean you should avoid small businesses, but you do need to take a bit more care- check the authenticity of website links by searching the web address manually (don’t click on links you’ve been sent from 3rd parties). Google has a handy URL checker to help you verify the safety of a link- simply copy and paste the link into the checker. Look at reviews and feedback from trusted sources such as consumer websites like Which? and Trustpilot.

Use a Credit Card to Pay for Goods
Paying with a credit card gives you extra protection if things go wrong. Under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act you are covered by credit card protection if you use your credit card for purchases for single items costing over £100 and under £30000.

Debit card transactions are not covered under Section 75, but they do protect purchases under £100 via chargeback. Do not agree to pay for goods by bank transfer.

When you are completing a purchase online always check the site is secure in the browser address bar. Although this doesn’t actually protect your purchase it does ensure you are using a secure connection, vital when you are inputting sensitive data online!

Be Vigilant
Scammers and fraudsters will be upping their game as we head towards December so expect an increase in spammy emails, questionable texts about missed deliveries and dodgy ads on social media. Last year Which? reported that 1 in 6 were targeted by scam ads.

When Things Go Wrong 
If you order a product or service and things aren’t quite right, then in the first instance you should try to resolve it with the retailer. If you need to take things further then check out this useful guide from the Citizens Advice Bureau. It has all the information you need when trying to claim refunds when you pay by PayPal or card.

If you accidentally click a dodgy link then don’t panic – run your antivirus software to do a thorough check of your device and contact a professional IT technician for further advice.

How old is your computer?
The average lifespan of a computer is 4 years so if your machine is older than that then you might start to see signs of wear and tear. Good general maintenance and cleaning will stretch its lifespan a little but after a certain time it will struggle to keep up and you will need to replace it.
 
Have you maintained your computer?
If you’ve neglected to keep on top of the maintenance and cleaning side of things with your computer then this will definitely reduce its life. Dust builds up on the components and fan can cause overheating which will damage the computer so always try to keep your computer clean and dust free.
 
Is the fan working overtime?
While a bit of heat is normal when the computer is running, significant heat and a very noisy fan indicate the computer is overheating. This could be another sign you need to look for a replacement machine.
 
Can you update it to the latest operating system?
If your computer can’t support the latest operating system then you could be in for trouble- new software will often not support older operating systems.
 
Is it running out of memory?
If you're having issues such as not being able to run two applications at the same time or your computer is sluggish and constantly crashes then you might find your computer doesn’t have enough RAM or is running out of room in the hard drive. Upgrading to more RAM or switching out the hard drive can remedy this but it might only be a temporary fix if the machine is old.
 
Is it slow to start up and shut down?
Another sign it might be time for an upgrade is if it’s taking an age to boot up or shut down your machine. Over time, computers slow down and while you might be able to improve some issues with some general maintenance or upgrading the hard drive to an SSD if the computer is too old then it is probably time to replace it.
 
Can it run the latest software programmes?
If your computer can’t run new software then that is a warning sign that it is too old and needs updating. Anti virus software providers often stop supporting older versions of your PC leaving you vulnerable to viruses and malware.
 
Is it reliable?
If you can’t rely on your computer to handle the day to day tasks then it sounds like you should be looking to replace it. Of course, there may be an easy solution that a computer specialist would be able to remedy but if it is costing you time and money then it might be worth upgrading to a newer model.
 
Would it cost more to upgrade or repair than to replace?
If the cost to repair or upgrade would be more than a new machine then the only right answer is to replace the computer. A new computer should be seen as an investment for your business and don’t forget it is a genuine business expense.

Never underestimate the value of a reliable computer for your business - if a new PC will cost slightly more than an upgrade but will save you time and mean you can get back to work quicker then it is worth taking into account when deciding whether to repair or replace. 
 
File genie can help with any concerns you have with your PC and can advise on maintenance, cleaning and antivirus protection.
 
Contact Ben for further help.