Why we say “No” to virus investigations

It is not unusual for customers ask us how they got a virus on their computer.  Normally we warn the customer about opening unexpected email attachments, only visiting trusted websites, and buying good anti-virus software.  Sometimes, we get pressed a little harder for specific answers about “where” or “how” and we have to say “NO.”   The Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1702, Section 104 states: “ A person acts as an investigations company for the purposes of this chapter if the person:…”, subsection (b) continues: “obtaining or furnishing information includes information obtained or furnished through the review and analysis of, and the investigation into the content of, computer-based data not available to the public.”  In plain English, something lawyers don’t speak, the Code specifies that investigating any data on your … Continue reading →

“Hi, I’m Hal. How May I Help You?”

Hal, the schizophrenic computer from 2001 A Space Odyssey is not what you would think of as a candidate for Employee of the Month.  But, so many companies today are depending on computers to deliver their customer experience, and are successful at it. The latest example of machine-over-mind is at your local Jack In The Box.  I dropped in for lunch and was surprised to see an order kiosk in the lobby, ingraciously pushed up against the counter.  I carefully side-stepped the machine and placed my order with the pleasant, human-female behind the counter. After collecting my food I sat so I had an unobstructed view of the counter.  I watched customers come in and most avoided the kiosk, but one couple walked right up to … Continue reading →