Edmonds Judd

Postscript

Postscript

Computer virus scams

There can be very few of us who have not been rung with the caller saying they’ve noticed your computer has a virus. They give you directions on where to look on your computer, and then helpfully suggest that you download some software and sign up to a service that is meant to keep your computer safe.

And of course there is no virus, but you’ve lost your money and your computer may have been hacked.

To protect yourself from computer virus scams, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs has some advice:

  • If someone calls you to say your computer has a virus, simply hang up the phone – even though your mother always told you that was rude.
  • If the caller becomes aggressive or unpleasant, don’t talk back, just hang up the phone.
  • As a result of the scam, if you’ve already downloaded some software, immediately unplug your computer from the internet.
  • You should also run spyware and antivirus programs and change all your passwords, using a different computer. If in doubt, take your computer to a technician to be ‘cleaned’. And don’t use it in the meantime.
  • If you’ve signed up to a service contract which you believe to be a scam, contact your bank or credit card provider immediately. You may be able to get a chargeback.

Getting organised for a new employee

Planning for a new employee isn’t just making sure they have a desk and chair. The Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment (MBIE) has compiled a checklist for employers to carry out before your new person starts. Not only does being prepared make your new employee feel more welcome, but it also makes them more efficient from Day One.

  • Set up equipment: Have a desk and chair ready, business cards and stationery, telephone, car, toolkit, safety equipment and so on.
  • IT: Get passwords and access, as well as an email address, arranged the week before.
  • Tell your insurance company: your insurer will want to know you’ve a new employee. It’s all about protecting your business.
  • Establish an employee file: This is required by law. Amongst other things it will contain your offer letter, the signed employment agreement, emergency contacts, visa details if relevant, etc
  • Payroll: You’ll need their IRD number, KiwiSaver details, bank account number, tax code, etc so you can set up your payroll in *
  • Share your company policies: It’s important that your new employee understands your company policies (start and finish times, breaks, annual leave, etc) and adheres to them.
  • Health and safety: It’s vital that your new employee is aware of your health and safety practices, understands safety procedures around equipment, knows the evacuation procedures, etc.
  • Workplace equipment and tools: Ensure there’s access to the tools and equipment they need to do their job, ensure they have swipe cards and so on.

MBIE’s website is very business-friendly, check it out at www.mbie.govt.nz


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