Author: Creative Programs and Systems - page 51

Malicious Authenticator App Stealing Bank Information

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An Android app posing to provide two-factor authentication in the Google Play store has turned out to be malicious. With over 10,000 phones affected, the app was available for 15 days.

The malicious app, called 2FA Authenticator, is no longer available on the Google Play Store. The app description read, “A secure authenticator for your online services, while also including some features missing in existing authenticator apps, like proper encryption and backups.”

In reality, the app was stealing financial information by copying an open-source code from a well-known legitimate app (Aegis Authenticator) and then copying malicious code into their own app. The 2FA Authenticator app was able to pass through the Google Play Store’s security checks but turned malicious once installed on an Android user’s phone or tablet.

Most apps ask for user permission once installed on the smartphone or device. The 2FA Authenticator app requested “critical permission,” which allowed it to execute a number of tasks such as:

  • Disabling keyboard lock
  • Disabling password security
  • Downloading third-party apps (and updates)
  • Running in the background after the app is closed
  • Placing an overlay on other apps
  • Having complete access to user data

Once the 2FA Authenticator app is installed, a Remote Access Trojan (RAT) is downloaded and installed. This trojan, called Vultur, records screens and keystrokes to capture details entered into banking apps. In return, criminals can quickly empty bank accounts, cryptocurrency wallets, and more.

If you or someone you know has installed the 2FA Authenticator app, uninstall it immediately. Contact your banking or financial provider quickly to ensure your accounts have not been compromised and change your passwords.

Hackers got your data? We can help get it back. Contact the virus professionals at Creative Programs and Systems today.

Founded in 1994, Creative Programs and Systems provides professional results for all computer needs. We design, create, and code an array of custom software programs and websites; offer top-notch digital marketing services including enhanced Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and paid advertising; repair and provide support for computers of both residential and professional nature; build custom systems and servers, and offer secure data backups. Need assistance or want to learn more? Call us at 810-224-5252 or e-mail info@cpsmi.com.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Creative Programs and Systems

Home Equity 101

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The word “equity” is synonymous with home loans, but many people aren’t fully aware of what the term means. Have questions? We’ve got answers. Read on to learn everything you need to know about home equity.

Home equity is an asset; a part of your property that you own, it can fluctuate based on the property’s market value and how much of the loan balance remains. Your home is considered collateral for the loan given to you through the mortgage company.

To calculate home equity, subtract the overall property value by your loan balance. For example, if the loan balance is $150,000 and the property value is $500,000, the equity totals $350,000. Your Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio is an equation used by lenders and can affect loan terms. LTV is a percentage calculated by dividing the loan balance by the property’s appraised value.

Equity can be accessed and used toward buying a new home or borrowed against and used for a cash-out refinance, Home Equity Line of Credit, or HELOC. Accumulated equity can be used to help fund retirement through a reverse mortgage.

To build equity, the property value needs to be increased while debt decreases. Significant improvements such as kitchen or bathroom remodels, new heating/cooling, landscape enhancements, smart home devices, new roof, etc., can add to the value of your home. Basic routine maintenance can also help in markets with increased redevelopment or job opportunities, as potential buyers are more likely.

Making monthly payments will steadily reduce your debt and build equity. If you make extra principal payments, your mortgage debt can be lowered even further. To pay less in interest over the life of the loan, you can swap a 30-year fix-rate or adjustable-rate mortgage for a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage. However, keep in mind this will increase your monthly payments.

Are you ready to invest in your home’s equity? Contact EB Mortgage today to get started.

EB Mortgage is a locally owned mortgage company with experts in new home purchase, refinancing, and commercial loans. Our wholesale rates can’t be beaten. We offer more products, more options, and more solutions. Our “3C” Process is simple: complete our pre-approval request, consider options based on your requirements, and choose the offer that suits your needs best. Call us at 616-228-8797 or e-mail contact@ebwmtg.com today.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

EB Mortgage

Signs Your Landscaping is Outdated

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The goal of commercial landscaping should be to look crisp, sharp, and organized with a touch of color. The overall aesthetic is welcoming, and the shrubbery guides visitors to the appropriate area. As the greenery grows, it’s imperative to provide proper maintenance on turf, landscape beds, and entryways.

After about 20 or 30 years, commercial landscaping can get tapped out, reaching its life expectancy. Generally, this is due to changes in light, water, shade, dirt, and more. As certain areas become heavily trekked or nearby trees overtake an area, etc., there are some telltale signs your landscaping needs a refreshing overhaul.

Sun vs. Shade
Certain plants enjoy sunshine, while others prefer shade. When nearby trees or shrubs grow and change the amount of sun or shade each plant gets can stunt their growth or even kill the plants. The solution is to move or replace plants, shuffling based on priority and overall aesthetic.

Safety or Liability
Commercial property owners should always be conscious of potential accidents that could result in costing valuable time and money. Dead trees or dying branches, un-shoveled or icy pathways, plant matter blocking pathway nightlights, and more. Commercial landscape contractors can do a simple property assessment, which can pinpoint safety hazards. After a property walkthrough outlining safety or liability hazards, plans can be made to eliminate them.

Turf Troubles
Though grass is everywhere, it can be temperamental if not planted in the correct environment. Sun and shade are essential aspects of grass growth, as is wear-and-tear from high-traffic areas. Replacing turf, maintaining or replacing surrounding plants, and more can immensely enhance your commercial property.

Two’s a Crowd
Large, overgrown plants are indicators that the landscape is outdated. Replacing a few shrubs or trees with smaller, lower-maintenance variations will lighten the landscape and make it look much younger. 

Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees
Overgrown trees and shrubs can be expensive, not to mention an eyesore. The scraggly branches can become a safety hazard and pruning or maintenance is usually more intensive with older trees. To keep your maintenance costs down, replace the outdated, half-dead trees with fresh, bright, lively ones.

Your landscape is a prospective client’s first impression of your business. Increase curb appeal with the team at T&T Property Maintenance. Contact us today to refresh your commercial property just in time for spring.

T&T Property Maintenance has been visualizing, creating, and maintaining commercial properties since 1997. We offer a vast number of services for our clients, including lawn and landscape maintenance, irrigation set up and repair, fertilization, weed and pest control, snow plowing and salting, and tree trimming and stump grinding. We are licensed with the Michigan Department of Agriculture, so you can rest assured we will do the job right – every time. We work with commercial businesses of any size and offer our services in seasonal or yearly packages, and a la carte. For over 20 years, we believe a satisfied customer is the only kind of customer. Check out our website, call, or e-mail us today to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

T&T Property Maintenance

How a Snow Cave Could Save Your Life

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

You might think it is substantially easier to find shelter in warm weather, but did you know snow caves can actually protect you in chilly, frigid temperatures? Snow caves can be excellent shelters and are generally made from deep snow, usually at the bottom of a hill.

Despite being freezing cold inside, snow caves are usually warmer than outside air temperatures, especially when considering windchill. If built correctly, a snow cave can sustain significantly warmer temperatures inside when compared to the exterior.

Snow caves can be intelligently constructed with an entrance tunnel leading to a small chamber with a domed roof. The chambers are usually big enough for two to four people and can showcase snow “benches” built into the floor.

To keep warm air in the dome, the roof is kept as low as possible, allowing it to support heavy snow weight from above. It is best to ensure the chamber is built on a slight incline compared to the entrance. When heat is trapped inside, the slight elevation helps it stay contained rather than floating down to the floor and escaping through the entrance tunnel.

Snow caves are wonderful insulators, maintaining a significantly higher temperature than outdoor temperatures, and can also prevent windburn.

Proper winter clothing is still required to maintain comfort within a snow cave. Keep survival kits with sleeping bags, gloves, blankets, ground pads (yoga mat), etc., to get the most warmth you can out of the cave.

When snow falls, it’s imperative to know how to construct a snow cave if you run into an emergency.

Looking for cold-weather gear? We have what you need! Check out our online store today.

Wolf Survival Gear is a hub for all your prepping and survival needs. We are a trusted resource for concerned families, avid hunters, or serious preppers. Make us your one-stop-shop and prepare now, before you’ll need it later. Visit our website or e-mail us today for more information.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Wolf Survival Gear

Exploring Landscaping, Hardscaping, and Softscaping

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Landscaping companies might throw around the terms “hardscaping” and “softscaping” often, but do you know what they mean? They are often used interchangeably but, in reality, are quite different.

Landscape
This term refers to virtually everything on your property; softscaping and hardscaping included. For this reason, landscape companies typically specialize in both softscaping and hardscaping as well. Landscape might encompass a couple of planting beds or large retaining walls, a deck with plants, or more.

Softscape
Grass, shrubs, trees, mulch, flowers, etc., are all considered softscape materials. Softscape designs are generally used to accentuate any hardscaping features on the premises. The organic compounds that can easily be ripped out of the earth, trimmed, or need regular watering are categorized as softscapes.

Hardscape
While softscape includes organic compounds, hardscape is the opposite: inorganic material that is usually built by a contractor and/or has a long lifespan. Common hardscape examples include patios, walkways, outdoor lighting, driveways, outdoor kitchens, retaining walls, and more. Whether the designs are functional or decorative, hardscapes are made from concrete, flagstone, stone, brick, plastic, wood, etc., and can sometimes even have electronic components.

Don’t let the cold temperatures fool you – spring is right around the corner! Think ahead and start planning your commercial landscape now.

Let the experts at T&T Property Maintenance help you design the ultimate commercial landscape using softscaping and hardscaping to suit your needs. Contact us today to learn more.

T&T Property Maintenance has been visualizing, creating, and maintaining commercial properties since 1997. We offer a vast number of services for our clients, including lawn and landscape maintenance, irrigation set up and repair, fertilization, weed and pest control, snow plowing and salting, and tree trimming and stump grinding. We are licensed with the Michigan Department of Agriculture, so you can rest assured we will do the job right – every time. We work with commercial businesses of any size and offer our services in seasonal or yearly packages, and a la carte. For over 20 years, we believe a satisfied customer is the only kind of customer. Check out our website, call, or e-mail us today to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

T&T Property Maintenance

Solar Growing for American Utility Grid

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According to the 2021 Utility-Scale Solar Report published by the Lawrence Berkeley National Library, large solar installations delivering energy to the electrical grid are on the upswing.

During 2020, the sector boasted 14 gigawatts (GW), equivalent to 73 percent of all new solar power. Solar power was the second-largest source of electricity-generating capacity additions in 2020 for projects of all sizes. Wind power was first, at 42 percent, and natural gas third, with 19 percent.

The study said, “It was the year with the greatest utility-scale solar capacity expansion in the United States so far, representing a year-over-year growth of 65 percent.”

The report stated, “Utility-scale PV is well-represented throughout the nation, with the exception of upper-Midwestern states in the ‘wind belt. Recent recipients of new utility-scale solar projects in the north—Idaho and Minnesota—did not add new capacity in 2020, while Montana, the Dakotas, Iowa, New Hampshire, and West Virginia still await their first utility-scale solar projects.”

Strong growth in the utility-scale solar pipeline is anticipated, as 460 GW of solar projects in the queue existed at the end of 2020.

The authors wrote, “Solar – both standalone and in hybrid form – is by far the largest resources within these queues, roughly equal to the amount of wind, storage, and natural gas combined.”

Are you exploring solar panels for your home or business? Contact State Electric today to add some green energy to your utilities.

State Electric Company is a leader in the electrification of the nation. Our highly educated and experienced team of professionals uses industry-leading software technology and has partnered with manufacturers to deliver affordable solutions for all your electrical needs. State Electric Co. is also an exclusive distributor for Enel X JuiceBox EV chargers for residential and commercial use. We are fully licensed, insured, and bonded to install charging stations for homes, offices, hotels, and more. With our extensive knowledge in renewable energy, our team provides customers – large or small – with efficient electrical solutions. Contact us today to learn how we can safely and affordably meet your energy needs.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

State Electric Co.

Dried Goji Berries Can Prevent Age-Related Vision Loss

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A small, randomized trial by the University of California, Davis, found that people who regularly eat a small serving of dried goji berries might see prevention or delay of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in healthy, middle-aged people.

Affecting over 170 people globally and roughly 11 million throughout the United States, AMD is the leading cause of vision loss in elderly people.

Glenn Yiu, a co-author of the study and associate professor in the Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, said, “AMD affects your central field of vision and can affect your ability to read or recognize faces.”

Research concluded that 13 study participants ages 45 to 65 increased the density of protective eye pigments after eating 28 grams (a handful) of goji berries five times per week for 90 days. Eating goji berries increased eye pigments lutein and zeaxanthin, which filter out harmful blue light, provide support through antioxidant protection, and protect aging eyes.

Lead author Xiang Li, a doctoral candidate in the Nutritional Biology Program, said, “Lutein and zeaxanthin are like sunscreen for your eyes. The higher the lutein and zeaxanthin in your retina, the more protection you have. Our study found that even in normal healthy eyes, these optical pigments can be increased with a small daily serving of goji berries.”

Goji berries are commonly used in Chinese medicine to “brighten” eyes through lutein and zeaxanthin. Dietary supplements containing Vitamin C, Vitamin E, zinc, copper, lutein, and zeaxanthin are used to treat intermediate stages of AMD.

“Our study shows goji berries, which are a natural food source, can improve macular pigments of healthy participants beyond taking high-dose nutritional supplements,” said Yiu. “The next step for our research will be to examine goji berries in patients with early-stage AMD.”

Rohr Eye & Laser Center offers the most advanced technology available to provide personalized and extraordinary care to our patients. Whether your goal is to maintain or improve your natural vision, we are here to help you. Call us at 877-579-0202 or visit https://www.michiganlasik.com/ to schedule an appointment today.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Michigan Lasik

PFAS Will Soon Be Regulated by EPA

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Polyfluoroalkyl and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are commonly known as “forever chemicals” due to their inability to break down naturally through time. These toxic chemicals have been found in water supplies in communities statewide. It is in the blood of 99.9 percent of all inhabitants on Earth.

Until now, there have not been any stringent standards for PFAS. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will soon regulate these human-made toxins that pose severe and life-threatening health risks for millions of people. In 2016, a recommended (yet unenforceable) health advisory limit was set at 70 parts per trillion for PFAS in drinking water. Now, scientists are saying those levels are unsafe for human health. With the new standards set by the EPA, local water utility companies will encounter consequences if they do not follow them.

PFAS can be found in much more than water; they have been used for decades in Teflon pans, fire retardants, cosmetics, dental floss, food packaging, clothing, cleaning supplies, and much more. With the new regulations, manufacturers will be required to provide specific data about the chemicals they use to create their products.

By 2023, the Defense Department will complete preliminary evaluations of possible PFAS contamination in roughly 700 different installations. The Food and Drug Administration, as well as the Agriculture and Health and Human Services departments, are both researching the health effects of PFAS.

EPA Administrator Michael Regan said, “This is a really bold set of actions for a big problem. This strategy really lays out a series of concrete and ambitious actions to protect people. There are concrete steps that we are taking that move this issue forward in a very aggressive way.”

PFAS can lead to infertility risks, thyroid disease, cancer, developmental problems in children, and much more. A 2016 study by scientists at Harvard University found that drinking water supplies for more than six million Americans had highly unsafe levels of PFAS.

The study’s lead author, Xindi Hu, said, “Virtually all Americans are exposed to these chemicals. They never break down. Once they are released into the environment, they are there.”

Robert Bilott, an environmental attorney whose story was made famous by the movie “Dark Waters,” when he successfully sued DuPont on behalf of plaintiffs exposed to PFAS in Ohio and West Virginia, said, “I do believe that in this term, we will make significant progress on this issue. I hate to be cynical, but I’ve been seeing this for 20 years. It’s massively overdue. It’s decades overdue. This is a huge public health threat, and it’s something that has just gone on way too long.”

More than likely, you have PFAS in your drinking water. Contact the water purification experts at Reynolds today – we can ensure your water is clean, pure, and safe from chemicals.

Reynolds Water Conditioning was established in 1931 and is Michigan’s oldest water conditioning treatment company. Still owned and operated by the Reynolds family, we take pride in providing the highest quality products at a cost-effective price. If your tap water lacks the quality you deserve, contact us today at www.reynoldswater.com or call 800-572-9575.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Reynolds Water

Signs of Mice in the House

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Mice are the most common rodent found in peoples’ homes. Using whatever materials they can find to make their nests, these pests invade homes by squeezing through tiny holes and voids within walls or other areas. They can also gnaw through drywall and insullation with ease.

Mice prefer to snack on grains, fruits, seeds, crackers, nuts, and other dried goods. Depending on what’s available, mice will chow down on just about anything, including insects, food scraps, and more.

Numerous issues can result in a home due to the presence of mice. From physical damage to your cabinets, electrical wiring, insulation, papers, boxes, and other materials to health hazards, mice should be removed from your infrastructure as soon as possible. Mice carry microbes and pathogens which can be transmitted to humans, such as hantavirus. They can also trigger asthma in humans if allergic.

Foraging for food isn’t the only reason mice infiltrate your home; they are also looking to build nests and raise their pups. Mice can reproduce swiftly, as females can give birth up to six babies every three weeks.

Especially during the cold winter months, mice can cause extensive damage to a home. Moreover, mice can get into your garage and climb in your vehicles to stay warm, chewing and nesting near the engine.

Do you think you have a mouse in your house? Here are some signs:

  • Damaged or chewed-through food boxes or food with nibble/teeth marks
  • Nests made from shredded napkins, boxes, papers, etc., found in drawers, closets, and more
  • Tiny, thin oval feces droppings
  • Electrical damage within walls or under the hood of your car
  • Oily marks on walls or tiny footprints on the floor

If you spot one or more of these signs, you might have a mouse problem. Take action by cleaning up crumbs, storing leftovers, sealing holes, removing nests, etc. To remove them altogether, you will need to call a professional.

At Northern Pest, our techs are expertly trained and ready to remove rodents from your home or business. Contact us to get rid of mice invaders today!

Northern Pest is a local, family-owned and operated insect and wild animal control company spanning six counties in Michigan’s central upper peninsula. We’ll help you find the least-invasive and most cost-effective plan to handle any irritating pest problem affecting your home or business. We are licensed and insured to provide pest control services, building maintenance, and repair work caused by wildlife damage. As a comprehensive animal and insect control company, Northern Pest is honored to give our customers peace of mind by providing solutions for troublesome wildlife. Contact us today at www.northernpest.com or call 906-553-4841 to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Northern Pest

Hand Injuries Resulting from Smartphones

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The world is at our fingertips with help from smartphones. With this novel invention, we can easily connect with family, friends, read recipes, browse through photos, play games, control other electronics, watch movies, and more. Now that smartphones have been around for quite some time, we’re seeing some common injuries in the hand which are directly caused by these devices.

Text Claw
Though this condition has been around since the typewriter era, text claw is a growing issue with people who use their smartphones to communicate. Text claw is marked by cramping and pain in the fingers. The typical treatment for text claw is to immobilize the hand and fingers with a brace, massage, or stretch the area.

Cellphone Elbow
Similar to those who complain of carpal tunnel after using keyboards excessively, smartphone users are susceptible to cubital-tunnel syndrome. Those who use their smartphone to watch a video and hold it in the air for two or more hours might experience pain in the elbow, numbing, tingling, etc., in the forearm and hand, which are all telltale signs of cellphone elbow. Switching hands is an easy solution, along with using a pillow or pad to prop up your smartphone.

Smartphone Pinkie
Smartphones are sometimes large, bulky, and awkward for some people to get a good grip on. Add to that the fact that most people do not want to drop or lose their smartphones; they’re holding on to them reasonably tightly. This grip can cause calluses on certain fingers, along with numbness or painful pinky fingers. To treat this issue, change the position of your hand and try to shift your grip often.

Cuts and Glass Slivers
Quite possibly the most apparent problems with smartphones, cracked screens or cameras can cause small lesions in the hand. Tiny slivers of glass can break off and puncture your skin; these tiny shards can also end up in your pocket, purse, or bed, creating another potential injury site. If broken or cracked, replace your smartphone whenever possible, as well as take advantage of screen protectors.

Texting Thumb
While texting, do you use all your fingers or just your thumbs? Most people use their thumbs to text or scroll through their phones, leading to texting thumb, trigger thumb, or arthritis. To remedy this situation, change your behavior by using a stylus to text, voice-to-text, or use more of your other fingers.

Hand, wrist, and elbow problems can result from ignoring smartphone hand injuries. If you suspect something is brewing in your hand or wrist, contact the experts at Michigan Hand & Wrist today.

Michigan Hand & Wrist was founded in 2001 with the mission to provide the highest-quality care for patients seeking surgical or non-surgical hand or upper extremity relief. Our goal is to exhaust all non-operative measures before discussing or moving on to surgical interventions. We offer on-site physical therapy from therapists committed to improving your quality of life. Our individualized treatments are modern, progressive, and exceptional. Contact us today at www.michiganhandandwrist.com or call 248-596-0412.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

MI Hand & Wrist