Delete Personal Information Properly When Selling Your Computer

This seems like a no-brainer when it comes to selling your computer, whether it be a PC or a Mac. No one wants any of their personal information compromised and fall into the hands of the wrong person.

But according to Kim Komando, a blogger named Josh Frantz spent roughly around $600 on different used devices for security research. What he found was absolutely startling.

“Frantz posted what he discovered on his rapid7 blog — and it was shocking! Of the 85 devices he bought, only two were correctly wiped. Most of the devices still had tons of information on them.

With help from a script he wrote, Frantz found 214,019 images, 148,903 emails and 3,406 documents. From all that, he was able to see email addresses, dates of birth, Social Security numbers and credit card numbers.”

Source: Kim Komando

If you are ready to sell any device you have, make sure you use apps, such as Eraser, or Permanent Eraser to delete any and all information that could easily be stolen. You can also look up apps in the App Store to give you options of which disk eraser works best for you.

These devices aren’t limited to just computers. Phones, printers, tablets and other electronic devices acquire certain information that you would not want leaked. Take the appropriate steps to remove the goods, so the goods don’t become tainted when you sell your device.


If you are having security problems or any other issue 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.

Widespread Computer Issues- Revisited

Back in 2013, we shared this blog post, explaining the most known issues in the computer world. This is simply a re-post, in hopes to remind users of a few computer issues and how to fix them.

What’s the strange WHIRRING NOISE coming from inside your PC? Most likely this is a sign of an overtaxed or dying FAN. Your fan may have come loose or may have become clogged with dirt and dust, decreasing its effectiveness and requiring it to work harder than it should have to. Thus, it is vital to clean out any dirt and debris that may obstruct the computer’s ventilation.

A non-functional fan can potentially cause OVERHEATING as well. All components of a computer demand appropriate and sufficient ventilation and cooling, as they generate heat during operation. When you are dealing with any kind of odd computer noise it is of utmost importance to perform a backup of all valuable, irreplaceable files saved on the system’s hard drive.

Although clicking sounds are the predominant, ominous indicators of a HARD DRIVE CRASH, failing to acknowledge other strange noises as a sign of a potentially serious issue could result in catastrophic data loss. There are many possible causes for hard drive failure, including overheating, faulty air filter, power surges, violent vibration, static electricity, mechanical failure and virus infection.

Your PC’s longevity is top priority!

If you’re needing help with computer 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.

Computer is Running Slow

Computer performance is quite important, especially since more and more people work remotely. So, if yours is running slower than normally, you may find one or more of these culprits.

Too many opened programs

Multiple programs running at the same time can cause issues to the speed of your computer. It results in a loss in processing power. To check this, open up the Task Manager app in the Start Menu. From there, you can end unnecessary tasks.

Outdated Windows Update

Microsoft releases Windows Updates to keep your computer running as smooth and securely as possible. If you’re running an outdated Windows version, search for Check for updates in your Settings.

You may have a virus

No one chooses to acquire viruses on their PC. Unfortunately, it happens often. Malware can cause computer performance to noticeably drop. Virus & threat protection is easily accessible in the Windows Security of the Settings app. This scans your PC and lets you know if any action is necessary.

Low Disk Space

Freeing up space on your PC will potentially boost the speed. Open Storage settings can be found under Storage in the Settings app. From there, you will be able to how much space you actually have.

For help troubleshooting PC 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 Mesa Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Mesa, AZ please call the local office at (480) 240-2950.

Computer Issues Due to Internet

While browsing the internet, your device is continually downloading data, images, and occasionally additional applications, allowing you to fully utilize the web. Nonetheless, when accessing the Internet, it is critical to be conscious of both your privacy and your security. Every digital device that is linked to the Internet has the potential to be infected with obtrusive spyware (adware & malware) and phishing. Malicious software can be installed secretly on any computer without the owner’s knowledge.

Unfortunately, there are many Spyware traps on the Internet. Open an apparently innocent online page, click on a false hyperlink, a pop-up, or a clickable graphic, and you may have unintentionally opened the door to spyware-laden websites that jeopardize your web safety and privacy with just one click.

While adware, in its worst form, can cause your system to slow down and finally freeze owing to the junk it has amassed on your computer, malware and viruses can take you down a more perilous road. They can gain control of your device and do harmful operations on your computer such as modifying settings, gathering personal data, capturing keystrokes to steal passwords and other important information, stealing files, and spreading the virus via email to your contacts.

What can be done?

Firewalls and antivirus software are important precautions that each internet user should adopt since they are effective instruments against intrusive spyware. They will remove any problematic stuff identified on your machine.

Windows security baselines provide Microsoft-recommended security configurations which reduce Windows systems’ attack surface and increase the overall security posture of enterprise endpoints.

“A security baseline is a group of Microsoft-recommended configuration settings that explains their security impact,” as Microsoft explains. “These settings are based on feedback from Microsoft security engineering teams, product groups, partners, and customers.”

The Windows 10 21H2 security baseline is now available for download via the Microsoft Security Compliance Toolkit, and it includes Group Policy Object (GPO) backups and reports, the scripts needed to apply settings to the local GPO, as well as Policy Analyzer rules.

Source: Bleeping Computer

Whether you need diagnostics for your computer, virus removal or just advice on problems with your computer, Karls Technology Computer Repair is here to help!


For help updating, restoring, or dealing with any 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 Pembroke Pines Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Pembroke, FL please call or text the local office at (754) 241-1655.

How To Turn on Windows 10 Night Light

When you lay awake at night, one thing we habitually snag to avoid boredom are our devices. But this in turn ruins our sleep habit with the blue light. Windows 10 has a practical feature, called Night Light, which removes blue light and displays a warmer screen.

To enable Night Light:
  • Start Menu
  • Settings
  • System
  • Display
  • turn on the switch under Night Light

You can use the Night light settings, which display options of the strength of Night Light, along with scheduling. Window Support adds that, “Night light isn’t available if your device uses certain drivers (DisplayLink or Basic Display).”

If you are needing help with Windows 10 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 to you from our staff at the Plano Computer Repair Service, if you need computer repair in Plano, TX please call the local office at (469) 299-9005.

Forgot your Wi-Fi Password?Use MacOS Keychain!

If you are currently using MacOS and haven’t heard of Keychain Access yet, you’re about to! This handy software feature is only available on Macs and it stores any personal information you allow it to – including website info, credit card numbers, passwords, etc. A pop-up will show when any passwords or other types of access information is needed. The pop-up gives you the option to save the data.

One of the perks of Keychain is you can store even stronger passwords to keep any and all accounts more secure. You don’t have to remember needed information because the Keychain feature keeps it safe and only available to you.

To find Keychain Access to view all of your stored information, Apple shares how to do this in Catalina:

  1. In the Keychain Access app on your Mac, if you don’t see a list of keychains, choose View > Show Keychains.
  2. Select the keychain that you want to view.
  3. To see more information about an item, double-click it.

For help with any Apple 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.

Safety Tips for Online Shopping

Every year, thousands of online shoppers are scammed out of thousands of dollars. When shopping this holiday season, use these simple safety tips:

-Before making a purchase, check out the company’s website and social media pages.

-Check the URL of each website to make sure it is genuine and safe. In order to make a secure purchase from a website, the URL must begin with “HTTPS.”

Unfortunately, online criminals often use Facebook to sell items. Make certain the individual you’re working with is who they claim they are before you conduct business with them. Before making a purchase on an online marketplace or auction site, make sure to check the site’s feedback rating.

In countries where such agreements are prohibited, it is best to avoid sellers who claim to be authorized dealers or agents of the manufacturer. Also, watch out for vendors who publish an auction or ad, but when you inquire about the item, respond with something similar to, “I’m out of town.”


For help with 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 Oro Valley Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Oro Valley, AZ, please call the local office at (520) 526-9940.

Computer Terminology To Know

When it comes to computers, it’s imperative to have a bit of knowledge of its terms and their meanings behind them. While there’s a plethora of hardware and software technology terms to fully comprehend computers as a whole, there are basic acronyms and words to help you better understand your computer. Here are a few:

URL, as we all know is simply a web address. But the acronym is known as Uniform Resource Locator. It can also be known as Universal Resource Locator.

SSH is known as Secure Shell. This protocol gives the administrator secure access and control over their servers over the internet. If unknown sources attempt to hack into the server, the code will jumble up to confuse the source.

ELI5 is an acronym in technology known as “Explain Like I’m 5”. It means to simplify certain complex topics.

BSOD, or Blue Screen of Death is an error that shows up on your monitor as a blue screen. This unfortunate error usually indicates your system has crashed.

IP Address is also known as Internet Protocol Address. This is a series of numbers which are identified to a local network or device. The identification connects to your online activities.

Cache/Cookies seem like intriguing terms for the computer world. They’re not harmful, but these files are created and saved by websites you visit. In addition, the websites can track visits. Thankfully, these cache/cookies can be cleared when certain issues ensue, such as pages not loading.

CPU is the Central Processing Unit that pertains to the memory and control of the computer. This hardware allows the user to utilize the programs and apps installed.

UI, or User Interface, can be applied to a visual display of a computer as a whole (monitor, keyboard, mouse, etc.). It can also mean apps and the internet and how users engage with those products and services.

VPN is also called Virtual Private Networking. This network allows users to acquire privacy while they’re online. It gives security and peace of mind when you are on a public Wi-Fi connection.

OS is known as the Operating System software. For example, Windows 10 and MacOS are both operating systems. The software connects with the hardware, keeping your PC working the best it can for you.

More terminology will be added throughout the year, so check back in!


For any computer related 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 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.

Revamp of Notepad for Windows 11

For more than 30 years, Notepad has served as Windows’ simple and quick text editor.

Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel now have access to a new Notepad app, and Microsoft plans to include it in the final version of Windows after all the bugs and issues have been worked out.

We are very excited to introduce to all of you the redesigned Notepad for Windows 11, which includes a number of changes we think the community will enjoy! First, you will notice a completely updated UI that aligns with the new visual design of Windows 11, including rounded corners, Mica, and more. We know how important Notepad is to so many of your daily workflows, so we designed this modern spin on the classic app to feel fresh, but familiar.

Source: Windows Blog
Dark Mode on Windows 11. Source: Windows Blog

Designed for Windows 11, this updated version of Notepad is able to adapt to your aesthetic preferences as well as alter fonts to make it easier to read.


If you need computer repair, computer service, or have any technology problem, 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 Littleton Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Littleton, CO, please call our Littleton office at (720) 441-6460.

Windows 11 Getting Weather Widget

The weather widget has been reintroduced by Microsoft.

Windows 10 users are familiar with the ‘News and Interests’ widget. By design, when hovered over on the taskbar, it emphasizes a full weather report. It also shares breaking news and sports coverage, and other random information that may be customized to suit the user’s needs.

On their announcement of the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22518, Amanda Langowski shares the plan for the widget.

“We are trying out showing the Widgets entry point on the left side of your taskbar with live weather content. You can also open the Widgets board by simply hovering over the entry point.”

Source: Windows Blog
Source: Windows Blog

Note for Windows Insiders: The preview may carry bugs that can affect your device. To become part of the Windows Insiders Program and try out upcoming features before anyone else, sign up here! Be sure to read the Important Notice before agreeing to join, as it adds a variety of risks to your computer.

Voice access is also included in this preview release, allowing you to operate key Windows 11 features with your voice alone.


If you are needing help with Microsoft 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 to you by our staff at the Las Vegas Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Las Vegas, NV please call the local office at (702) 800-7850.