Is Hollywood the new Harpy of bogus viruses?

There I was minding my own business, doing research for my next article, visiting a very secure web page (tomshardware.com, the geek authority for computer hardware) to get news on the new Intel 10th generation CPU and boom, I was hit with a screen lockup. Darn.

We have a name for these types of attacks, the Harpy – because of the annoying, repeating message of the browser “infection.”

The message says you have an infected network and you must call a number to correct the issue. Letting them into your computer to “fix” something that, in actuality, is not an issue is a user error.

If you call their number and allow admittance to your computer, these actors now have access to all your accounts. That’s when a real infection begins, so don’t let them in.

In Greek and Roman mythology, a harpy is a half-human woman and half-bird with nasty talons (to hook you into a false belief and purloin your valuables).

The computer attack displays an official-looking warning message and requests your user name and password. Our new name for this type of attack is Hollywood, because the message is a fake imitation, just like Hollywood.

During the attack, a message flashes on your screen that looks official. It quotes the registry entry key that has been corrupted and admonishes you to call a Microsoft 800 number to fix it. It also locks your browser. I called the number – total scam. Hollywood is all about actors playing a part.

Relax, don’t worry. You are not infected, but your browser is locked. Unlock it by using Task Manager. Locate the Windows 10 logo in the lower left. Right click it and select Task Manager. In processes, locate your browser, right click and select end task. Reopen your browser. It should be corrected.

If not, you’re missing a simple setting. Call your local tech and have them fix it. A simple, one-minute fix.

OK, now back to Intel’s new 10th generation CPU. It isn’t out yet. Sorry for the tease.

However, the i9 CPU announced in May is available. It is truly amazing, with burst speeds topping 5GHz and 8 cores. The moniker of i9-9900K is the beastie of the group, best utilized for gaming, virtual reality, rendering, photo editing and video.

This CPU is compatible with some existing computers, so upgrades may be right for you. If you’re unsure, ask your professional tech before you attempt an upgrade. Or purchase a new computer with the i9 built in.

The i9 is about bragging rights. So go fast and brag. What’s wrong with that?

Bargains this year will be on computers that support 7th and 8th generation Intel CPU’s. Look for i7-7900K or i8-8900K. Older generations may be adequate for general purposes, but don’t expect performance in comparison to new computers.

They may also lack support for some SSD drives. For example, M.2 NVMe may not be supported. Call a pro and get answers before you purchase.

Forget the actors and do the right thing.

William Claney is an independent tech writer and former owner of Computers USA in the Clayton Station. Email questions or comments to willclaney@gmail.com.