Let me tell you something. I don't know everything there is to know about the Internet. . However, I do know how to protect my computer. It's really not that hard. If you follow some basic rules, you will know how to protect your computer also. Every day there are new viruses and new things to look for out for on the Internet so let's go over a few basic rules.
1. Your browser. Like it or not, some of the most popular browsers aren't the safest browsers to use when surfing the Internet. In fact, some of the most popular browsers can definitely lead to some big problems down the line. My personal choice is Firefox. Firefox is truly an advanced browser. The best part about Firefox is that it is free. That's right, ironically, a free browser is the safest browser to use at the current time. Firefox is constantly being upgraded and its security is top of the line
2. Your passwords. I know it is very easy to use the same password over and over. Heck I still do it often times, but it can turn into a very big security problem. If you aren't careful you could open yourself up to a large security issue. If someone were to guess your password, they would be able to access many different types of accounts of yours.
3. Filter. There are all sorts of new filters on the market today for web browsing and using the Internet in general. This article isn't long enough for me to get into all the specifics of the different types of filters that are available for your computer. Just take a look around the Internet, or do a web search on Google or Yahoo, and you will be able to find many different types of filter software for sale. Filter software can be especially handy if you have children around and want to keep them from seeing different types of web sites.
This is just the tip of the iceberg. There are literally hundreds of other things, you can do to protect your computer and its users. Stop by our site today and take a look at a different Internet protection resources that we have available for you.
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
Protect your computer. It's not as hard as you might think.
Tuesday, April 29, 2014
Sunday, April 27, 2014
Internet Monitoring, Safety And Security
Internet monitoring is a necessary part of having internet service. Whether you allow your children to surf the web or if you have the need to monitor employees, effective programs can be used to help you to do this simply. There are many aspects that can be monitored and the results can be delivered to you privately. No one needs to know that you are using internet monitoring technologies either.
There are many options when it comes to internet monitoring. No matter what your need is in these products, you can expect to use high tech gadgets and software. But, they are simplistic to use. Many software programs that monitor internet usage will tell you such things as how long the individual was online as well as what websites they visited, who they chatted with in instant messages, as well as anything that they input into the web. Emails can be tracked as well as a number of other things.
Why should you use internet monitoring? If you are not sure your employees are using their time on the job for job related tasks, this can help you know for sure. If you are unsure of who your spouse is chatting with at night, consider the use of these monitoring solutions. Do you know if someone is stalking your child as they play games on the web? If they use instant message software, find out who they are talking to and what they are saying. Internet monitoring is really a necessary part of keeping people safe and your business under control. Effective internet monitoring software products can be purchased and installed quickly and discreetly. Be in the know.
There are also many information portals now devoted to the subject and we recommend reading about it at one of these. Try googling for “internet monitoring” and you will be surprised by the abundance of information on the subject. Alternatively you may try looking on Yahoo, MSN or even a decent directory site, all are good sources of this information.
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
Internet monitoring is a necessary part of having internet service. Whether you allow your children to surf the web or if you have the need to monitor employees, effective programs can be used to help you to do this simply. There are many aspects that can be monitored and the results can be delivered to you privately. No one needs to know that you are using internet monitoring technologies either.
There are many options when it comes to internet monitoring. No matter what ...
There are many options when it comes to internet monitoring. No matter what your need is in these products, you can expect to use high tech gadgets and software. But, they are simplistic to use. Many software programs that monitor internet usage will tell you such things as how long the individual was online as well as what websites they visited, who they chatted with in instant messages, as well as anything that they input into the web. Emails can be tracked as well as a number of other things.
Why should you use internet monitoring? If you are not sure your employees are using their time on the job for job related tasks, this can help you know for sure. If you are unsure of who your spouse is chatting with at night, consider the use of these monitoring solutions. Do you know if someone is stalking your child as they play games on the web? If they use instant message software, find out who they are talking to and what they are saying. Internet monitoring is really a necessary part of keeping people safe and your business under control. Effective internet monitoring software products can be purchased and installed quickly and discreetly. Be in the know.
There are also many information portals now devoted to the subject and we recommend reading about it at one of these. Try googling for “internet monitoring” and you will be surprised by the abundance of information on the subject. Alternatively you may try looking on Yahoo, MSN or even a decent directory site, all are good sources of this information.
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
Internet monitoring is a necessary part of having internet service. Whether you allow your children to surf the web or if you have the need to monitor employees, effective programs can be used to help you to do this simply. There are many aspects that can be monitored and the results can be delivered to you privately. No one needs to know that you are using internet monitoring technologies either.
There are many options when it comes to internet monitoring. No matter what ...
Friday, April 25, 2014
Instant Messaging and P2P Vulnerabilities for Health Organizations
Because of HIPAA legislation, health organizations have to be particularly careful about the vulnerability of the patient data they maintain. Exposing patient data to the Internet through IM exchanges or P2P file sharing can jeopardize their compliance with a variety of state and federal regulations. The popularity of IM and P2P protocols has penetrated every aspect of our society including those organizations entrusted with sensitive data such as health records. The opportunity for data to be exposed to eyes outside an organization has increased whether such exposure is intentional or not and organizations bound by HIPAA regulations are required to protect their patient data or suffer the consequences.
Often in hospital situations, employees on different shifts are sharing workstations. Many of them may be communicating with family and friends, outside the organization, via Instant Messaging or P2P and can unknowingly download a malicious agent that can damage not only individual workstations, but entire networks. Because many people may have access to the same computer, this activity is difficult to trace and can occur with alarming ease.
When a malicious program is downloaded, it can exploit a back door in the system and proliferate across the network. Depending on the nature of the parasitic code, patient information may be accessed and transmitted from behind the firewall to a designated IP address or it may launch an attack against the host network. These types of attacks can bring the network down. Even short downtime can cause significant financial and data loss.
<b>Public Communications</b>
Adding more complexity to the situation, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the National Association of Securities Dealers Inc. (NASD) identify Instant Messaging traffic as communications with the public that companies must save and monitor. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires even those instant messages that are casual and personal to be saved and recorded as formal correspondence.
Many companies capture and store the data as required by law. Because this information can be used as legal evidence, there are several instances where data contained on message boards and via IMs were submitted to support or defeat a case being adjudicated. Imagine if medical advice were contained in an IM, even something as innocuous as advising Tylenol for a feverish child. Such correspondence could be used to make a medical malpractice case against a nurse or physician.
<b>Network Security</b>
IM and P2P also expose end-user equipment to worms, viruses and other backdoor software that -once introduced, can infect a network and inflict damage on a wide scale. Employee abuse of their computer privileges can be the silent destroyer of networks. Whether it is a dramatic problem such as denial of service or the downloading of backdoor worms and viruses, the misuse can be dangerous and damaging and ultimately undermines network security.
Managers of network security need to take advantage of hardware appliance solutions in order to fully protect their networks from employee abuse and misuse. The damage to productivity and profits of a company are only the tip of the iceberg. Introducing a filtering option that does not have a single point of failure, or cause latency in network traffic is critical. Equally important, a solution that doesn’t need to share memory or processing power with another device is the best choice to protect networks against security breaches and legal liability and to help preserve the corporation’s good reputation.
<b>Legal Liabilities</b>
P2P and IM file sharing can be dangerous applications that quickly devour bandwidth and jeopardize company finances because companies can be held liable for employee actions such as downloading copyrighted song material. In addition, P2P and IMs can contain malicious software that downloads and installs itself into the host network; a company’s computers and networks may be used to launch denial of service (DoS) attacks on other companies and networks.
There is an established legal precedent that will hold a company liable in part for the damages inflicted on another company if their computers or networks were used to stage the attack. Because of this legal precedent, the danger to a host network is not just the loss of bandwidth and subsequent breakdown in communications, but also the legal liabilities involved can result in damage to a company or organization’s reputation, and even threaten its financial stability.
It’s important to note that the damage to an organization’s reputation can be more costly in the long run, especially if the organization is supposed to be secure and web savvy or if security vulnerabilities can threaten to expose sensitive data such as health records. For hospitals, health insurance and dedicated health care providers, such damage can result in a loss of business over time that devastates their long term prospects and when combined with -short term fines, can even mean going out of business or experiencing a takeover by another health care company.
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
Instant messaging and P2P file sharing present very critical vulnerabilities to health organizations who must be careful to protect patient data.
Often in hospital situations, employees on different shifts are sharing workstations. Many of them may be communicating with family and friends, outside the organization, via Instant Messaging or P2P and can unknowingly download a malicious agent that can damage not only individual workstations, but entire networks. Because many people may have access to the same computer, this activity is difficult to trace and can occur with alarming ease.
When a malicious program is downloaded, it can exploit a back door in the system and proliferate across the network. Depending on the nature of the parasitic code, patient information may be accessed and transmitted from behind the firewall to a designated IP address or it may launch an attack against the host network. These types of attacks can bring the network down. Even short downtime can cause significant financial and data loss.
<b>Public Communications</b>
Adding more complexity to the situation, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the National Association of Securities Dealers Inc. (NASD) identify Instant Messaging traffic as communications with the public that companies must save and monitor. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires even those instant messages that are casual and personal to be saved and recorded as formal correspondence.
Many companies capture and store the data as required by law. Because this information can be used as legal evidence, there are several instances where data contained on message boards and via IMs were submitted to support or defeat a case being adjudicated. Imagine if medical advice were contained in an IM, even something as innocuous as advising Tylenol for a feverish child. Such correspondence could be used to make a medical malpractice case against a nurse or physician.
<b>Network Security</b>
IM and P2P also expose end-user equipment to worms, viruses and other backdoor software that -once introduced, can infect a network and inflict damage on a wide scale. Employee abuse of their computer privileges can be the silent destroyer of networks. Whether it is a dramatic problem such as denial of service or the downloading of backdoor worms and viruses, the misuse can be dangerous and damaging and ultimately undermines network security.
Managers of network security need to take advantage of hardware appliance solutions in order to fully protect their networks from employee abuse and misuse. The damage to productivity and profits of a company are only the tip of the iceberg. Introducing a filtering option that does not have a single point of failure, or cause latency in network traffic is critical. Equally important, a solution that doesn’t need to share memory or processing power with another device is the best choice to protect networks against security breaches and legal liability and to help preserve the corporation’s good reputation.
<b>Legal Liabilities</b>
P2P and IM file sharing can be dangerous applications that quickly devour bandwidth and jeopardize company finances because companies can be held liable for employee actions such as downloading copyrighted song material. In addition, P2P and IMs can contain malicious software that downloads and installs itself into the host network; a company’s computers and networks may be used to launch denial of service (DoS) attacks on other companies and networks.
There is an established legal precedent that will hold a company liable in part for the damages inflicted on another company if their computers or networks were used to stage the attack. Because of this legal precedent, the danger to a host network is not just the loss of bandwidth and subsequent breakdown in communications, but also the legal liabilities involved can result in damage to a company or organization’s reputation, and even threaten its financial stability.
It’s important to note that the damage to an organization’s reputation can be more costly in the long run, especially if the organization is supposed to be secure and web savvy or if security vulnerabilities can threaten to expose sensitive data such as health records. For hospitals, health insurance and dedicated health care providers, such damage can result in a loss of business over time that devastates their long term prospects and when combined with -short term fines, can even mean going out of business or experiencing a takeover by another health care company.
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
Instant messaging and P2P file sharing present very critical vulnerabilities to health organizations who must be careful to protect patient data.
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
Identity theft basics
Identity theft is one of the latest buzzword within our society in recent times. Identity theft refers to hiding one’s original identity and illegally misusing someone else’s identity. The person pretending to be someone else tries to make money at the cost of others and makes an abusive use of fake identity. The occurrence of this form of crime has increased partly due to the expansion in our communication network where people interact or know about only the existence of other person but have not met them person. Since one does not recognize the other person by physical appearance it is easier for identity thieves to step into others shoe and gather vital information for their own selfish motives. Identity theft can also occur from distance when someone may call or communicate with any other person just to gather some confidential information and then misuse the data provided.
Emergence of Internet apart from providing many facilities and being a blessing for people has also added a lot to this already existing crime.
With more and more business houses using Internet and computerized networks for their official workings increased amount of significant data are now found on web. Apart from the obtaining vital statistics of any corporate house or any important individual information, identity thieves do disguise to fool others and obtain some critical information like the credit card number or the social security number. Theft of credit card number and social security number can result in a great loss and trauma for the victim. As the culprit could use the credit card for withdrawing money from others account and also the crimes committed by the thief can be attributed to the victim since the thief was using a fake identity of other person.
This increasing form of crime has raised concern of many and people are now finding ways to combat such malicious actions that cause loss to innocent citizens. Apart from following the general instructions and relying on social systems to prevent such crimes certain individual effort is also required to protect one from identity thieves. One must be cautious not to provide any confidential information on Internet or any other public communication systems that can be accessed by anyone. Only after perfectly confirmed verification some information may be shared if it’s very urgent. Also one should not rely on anyone else without careful verification of the identity of the other person.
It’s a matter of great regret that such identity thieves many a times bank upon the sentiments of good citizens and fool them to make some easy money. Many such cases of false identity have been reported in recent past where people pretend to be someone in great need of help and when some virtuous person comes forward to help them they just breach others and make personal profits at the expense of others.
Recently when the world was struck by an unfortunate natural disaster of tsunami help from entire world poured in through all means. Government organizations of countries struck by this calamity had set websites to make people aware of the damages incurred and collect help from them if they could contribute to the well-being of victims. Following the genuine websites many fraudulent websites were also hosted at the same time to bank upon people’s sentiments for personal interests. Such incidents and many others make it a moral responsibility of every citizen to come forward and assist in curbing this social crime.
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
Identity theft is one of the latest buzzword within our society in recent times. Identity theft refers to hiding one’s original identity and illegally misusing someone else’s identity
Emergence of Internet apart from providing many facilities and being a blessing for people has also added a lot to this already existing crime.
With more and more business houses using Internet and computerized networks for their official workings increased amount of significant data are now found on web. Apart from the obtaining vital statistics of any corporate house or any important individual information, identity thieves do disguise to fool others and obtain some critical information like the credit card number or the social security number. Theft of credit card number and social security number can result in a great loss and trauma for the victim. As the culprit could use the credit card for withdrawing money from others account and also the crimes committed by the thief can be attributed to the victim since the thief was using a fake identity of other person.
This increasing form of crime has raised concern of many and people are now finding ways to combat such malicious actions that cause loss to innocent citizens. Apart from following the general instructions and relying on social systems to prevent such crimes certain individual effort is also required to protect one from identity thieves. One must be cautious not to provide any confidential information on Internet or any other public communication systems that can be accessed by anyone. Only after perfectly confirmed verification some information may be shared if it’s very urgent. Also one should not rely on anyone else without careful verification of the identity of the other person.
It’s a matter of great regret that such identity thieves many a times bank upon the sentiments of good citizens and fool them to make some easy money. Many such cases of false identity have been reported in recent past where people pretend to be someone in great need of help and when some virtuous person comes forward to help them they just breach others and make personal profits at the expense of others.
Recently when the world was struck by an unfortunate natural disaster of tsunami help from entire world poured in through all means. Government organizations of countries struck by this calamity had set websites to make people aware of the damages incurred and collect help from them if they could contribute to the well-being of victims. Following the genuine websites many fraudulent websites were also hosted at the same time to bank upon people’s sentiments for personal interests. Such incidents and many others make it a moral responsibility of every citizen to come forward and assist in curbing this social crime.
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
Identity theft is one of the latest buzzword within our society in recent times. Identity theft refers to hiding one’s original identity and illegally misusing someone else’s identity
Monday, April 21, 2014
Identity Theft's Young Victims: How to Protect Your Children's Identities
When we think of identity theft, children are probably not the first victims we might imagine. Unfortunately, more and more kids are being targeted for this crime, and the culprits may not be who you think. Right now, approximately 4% of all identity theft cases involve children, which means roughly 400,000 kids a year are having their futures ruined without their knowledge. 1
In an article on MSNBC.com, a 24-year old man explained that by the age of 10, his identity had been used to accumulate almost $250,000 in debt and to commit a felony. Another victim, a 9-year old boy, received a collection notice for a $2,000 debt.
Unlike most identity theft victims, however, these two individuals know exactly who was responsible for committing this crime: their fathers. According to the article, almost two-thirds of all child-related identity theft cases are committed by family members.
A child becomes a victim, in most cases, because someone else uses their social security number and name to open a credit card or to have utilities turned on. While the information can be used in other ways, those are two of the most common. And, because children aren't interested in their credit history until they turn 18 or older, most never even realize the crime has been committed until years after the theft started.
There are some ways to protect your child against potential identity theft:
Keep their social security number locked up in a secure location – If criminals don't have access to your child's social security number, they can't steal it. Never carry their card in your purse or wallet where it could easily be lost or stolen. Never share the number with another family member or anyone else who does not have a professional need to know.
Ask to not have their SSN listed on insurance cards – Many insurance companies list social security numbers on their cards. If yours does, then contact them and ask to use a different number.
Do not allow your child to know his or her SSN until its necessary – Young children have no reason to know their social security numbers or to have access to their SSN card. Keep those documents safe and private until your child needs them. Children are often tempted to reveal more than they should to friends, family members, even strangers.
Check their credit report – While a yearly check of their report may not be necessary unless you suspect a problem, it's a good idea to periodically check your child's credit reports for activity. Your child shouldn't have anything listed at all, but if anything does show up contact the credit bureau and the listed creditors immediately.
Additionally, if you are a parent you should NEVER use your child's social security number fraudulently. Not only are you committing a crime, but you are also making your child's life more difficult. Furthermore, if you know or suspect that someone is wrongly using their child's personal information, then you should contact the authorities. Don't sit idly by while they ruin that child's future.
If you want more information on preventing, detecting, or rectifying identity theft problems for children and adults, then you need to read Identity Theft: A Resource Guide from PCSecurityNews.com. The ebook is available at http://www.pcsecuritynews.com/identity_theft.html
1. Novotny, Monica. “Robbing the Cradle.” Countdown with Keith Olberman. MSNBC.com
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
Did you know that someone could be using your child's identity? Read on to learn how to protect it and keep it from happening.
In an article on MSNBC.com, a 24-year old man explained that by the age of 10, his identity had been used to accumulate almost $250,000 in debt and to commit a felony. Another victim, a 9-year old boy, received a collection notice for a $2,000 debt.
Unlike most identity theft victims, however, these two individuals know exactly who was responsible for committing this crime: their fathers. According to the article, almost two-thirds of all child-related identity theft cases are committed by family members.
A child becomes a victim, in most cases, because someone else uses their social security number and name to open a credit card or to have utilities turned on. While the information can be used in other ways, those are two of the most common. And, because children aren't interested in their credit history until they turn 18 or older, most never even realize the crime has been committed until years after the theft started.
There are some ways to protect your child against potential identity theft:
Keep their social security number locked up in a secure location – If criminals don't have access to your child's social security number, they can't steal it. Never carry their card in your purse or wallet where it could easily be lost or stolen. Never share the number with another family member or anyone else who does not have a professional need to know.
Ask to not have their SSN listed on insurance cards – Many insurance companies list social security numbers on their cards. If yours does, then contact them and ask to use a different number.
Do not allow your child to know his or her SSN until its necessary – Young children have no reason to know their social security numbers or to have access to their SSN card. Keep those documents safe and private until your child needs them. Children are often tempted to reveal more than they should to friends, family members, even strangers.
Check their credit report – While a yearly check of their report may not be necessary unless you suspect a problem, it's a good idea to periodically check your child's credit reports for activity. Your child shouldn't have anything listed at all, but if anything does show up contact the credit bureau and the listed creditors immediately.
Additionally, if you are a parent you should NEVER use your child's social security number fraudulently. Not only are you committing a crime, but you are also making your child's life more difficult. Furthermore, if you know or suspect that someone is wrongly using their child's personal information, then you should contact the authorities. Don't sit idly by while they ruin that child's future.
If you want more information on preventing, detecting, or rectifying identity theft problems for children and adults, then you need to read Identity Theft: A Resource Guide from PCSecurityNews.com. The ebook is available at http://www.pcsecuritynews.com/identity_theft.html
1. Novotny, Monica. “Robbing the Cradle.” Countdown with Keith Olberman. MSNBC.com
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
Did you know that someone could be using your child's identity? Read on to learn how to protect it and keep it from happening.
Saturday, April 19, 2014
Identity Theft – Who is phishing for your information?
There’s a new type of internet piracy called phishing (pronounced fishing). Internet thieves are fishing for your personal information. They’re looking for ways to trick you into giving out your Social Security Number, credit card number and other personal information that they can use to their advantage. You could become a victim of identity theft that could take years to clear your financial history and personal reputation. But understanding how these internet thieves work, will help you to protect yourself from becoming a victim.
How do these thieves get your information?
Typically, you might receive an email from a company that you are familiar with that looks real. It has the company logo, they may call you by name, and the tone of the email is that they are looking out for your best interests. This email will warn you of some imminent danger to your account or credit card and that you need to take action immediately or you will suffer dire consequences. There will be a link (underlined writing usually in blue) for you to click on that will take you to their website. And guess what? The website they take you to will look like the real thing with the company logo and all.
Next, you will be asked to verify your account, password, or credit card information. If you ever find yourself here, STOP! Do nothing. Do not fill in any personal information. Immediately exit from this website and delete the phony email that you received.
How to know that this is a phishing email.
If you did not email this company asking for information about your account or for help with a problem, be suspicious. If you are still not sure because it looks so real, call the company yourself and ask. You can find these phone numbers on your monthly statement. If it is after hours and no one is there to take your call, wait until the next day when you can reach someone. Don’t fall for the imminent danger message and feel that you have to take action immediately. Phishers are hoping that you will take immediate action – don’t panic and let them trick you into clicking on their link.
What can you do?
Never give someone your password over the internet or phone when it is an unsolicited request. Your credit card company knows what your password and credit card number is. They don’t need to ask you for it.
Likewise, your bank knows what your account number and social security number, they won’t ask you to repeat it verbally over the phone.
Review all of your monthly statements every month as soon as they arrive. Check for charges that you never made. If your statement is ever late in arriving in the mail, call and ask why. Protect yourself from these would-be thieves. Don’t let them take your identity! Please remember to Bookmark www.wheatgrass-fountain-of-youth.info now! Thanks for visiting.
Brought to you by http://www.PrePaid-Legal-Help-4U.com where you have complete legal protection 24/7 for less than $1 a day!
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
There’s a new type of internet piracy called phishing (pronounced fishing). Internet thieves are ‘fishing’ for your personal information. They’re looking for ways to trick you into giving out your Social Security Number, credit card number and other personal information that they can use to their advantage. But understanding how these internet thieves work, will help you to protect yourself from becoming a victim.
How do these thieves get your information?
Typically, you might receive an email from a company that you are familiar with that looks real. It has the company logo, they may call you by name, and the tone of the email is that they are looking out for your best interests. This email will warn you of some imminent danger to your account or credit card and that you need to take action immediately or you will suffer dire consequences. There will be a link (underlined writing usually in blue) for you to click on that will take you to their website. And guess what? The website they take you to will look like the real thing with the company logo and all.
Next, you will be asked to verify your account, password, or credit card information. If you ever find yourself here, STOP! Do nothing. Do not fill in any personal information. Immediately exit from this website and delete the phony email that you received.
How to know that this is a phishing email.
If you did not email this company asking for information about your account or for help with a problem, be suspicious. If you are still not sure because it looks so real, call the company yourself and ask. You can find these phone numbers on your monthly statement. If it is after hours and no one is there to take your call, wait until the next day when you can reach someone. Don’t fall for the imminent danger message and feel that you have to take action immediately. Phishers are hoping that you will take immediate action – don’t panic and let them trick you into clicking on their link.
What can you do?
Never give someone your password over the internet or phone when it is an unsolicited request. Your credit card company knows what your password and credit card number is. They don’t need to ask you for it.
Likewise, your bank knows what your account number and social security number, they won’t ask you to repeat it verbally over the phone.
Review all of your monthly statements every month as soon as they arrive. Check for charges that you never made. If your statement is ever late in arriving in the mail, call and ask why. Protect yourself from these would-be thieves. Don’t let them take your identity! Please remember to Bookmark www.wheatgrass-fountain-of-youth.info now! Thanks for visiting.
Brought to you by http://www.PrePaid-Legal-Help-4U.com where you have complete legal protection 24/7 for less than $1 a day!
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
There’s a new type of internet piracy called phishing (pronounced fishing). Internet thieves are ‘fishing’ for your personal information. They’re looking for ways to trick you into giving out your Social Security Number, credit card number and other personal information that they can use to their advantage. But understanding how these internet thieves work, will help you to protect yourself from becoming a victim.
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
Identity Theft – Who is ‘phishing’ for your information?
There’s a new type of internet piracy called ‘phishing’ (pronounced ‘fishing’). Internet thieves are ‘fishing’ for your personal information. They’re looking for ways to trick you into giving out your Social Security Number, credit card number and other personal information that they can use to their advantage. You could become a victim of identity theft that could take years to clear your financial history and personal reputation. But understanding how these internet thieves work, will help you to protect yourself from becoming a victim.
How do these thieves get your information?
Typically, you might receive an email from a company that you are familiar with that looks ‘real’. It has the company logo, they may call you by name, and the tone of the email is that they are looking out for your best interests. This email will warn you of some imminent danger to your account or credit card and that you need to take action immediately or you will suffer dire consequences. There will be a link (underlined writing usually in blue) for you to click on that will take you to their website. And guess what? The website they take you to will look like the real thing with the company logo and all.
Next, you will be asked to ‘verify’ your account, password, or credit card information. If you ever find yourself here, STOP! Do nothing. Do not fill in any personal information. Immediately exit from this website and delete the phony email that you received.
How to know that this is a ‘phishing’ email.
If you did not email this company asking for information about your account or for help with a problem, be suspicious. If you are still not sure because it looks so ‘real’, call the company yourself and ask. You can find these phone numbers on your monthly statement. If it is after hours and no one is there to take your call, wait until the next day when you can reach someone. Don’t fall for the ‘imminent danger’ message and feel that you have to take action immediately. ‘Phishers’ are hoping that you will take immediate action – don’t panic and let them trick you into clicking on their link.
What can you do?
Never give someone your password over the internet or phone when it is an unsolicited request. Your credit card company knows what your password and credit card number is. They don’t need to ask you for it.
Likewise, your bank knows what your account number and social security number, they won’t ask you to repeat it verbally over the phone.
Review all of your monthly statements every month as soon as they arrive. Check for charges that you never made. If your statement is ever late in arriving in the mail, call and ask why. Protect yourself from these would-be thieves. Don’t let them take your identity! Please remember to Bookmark www.wheatgrass-fountain-of-youth.info now! Thanks for visiting.
Brought to you by http://www.PrePaid-Legal-Help-4U.com where you have complete legal protection 24/7 for less than $1 a day!
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
There’s a new type of internet piracy called ‘phishing’ (pronounced ‘fishing’). Internet thieves are ‘fishing’ for your personal information. They’re looking for ways to trick you into giving out your Social Security Number, credit card number and other personal information that they can use to their advantage. You could become a victim of identity theft that could take years to clear your financial history and personal reputation. But understanding how these internet thieves work, will help you
How do these thieves get your information?
Typically, you might receive an email from a company that you are familiar with that looks ‘real’. It has the company logo, they may call you by name, and the tone of the email is that they are looking out for your best interests. This email will warn you of some imminent danger to your account or credit card and that you need to take action immediately or you will suffer dire consequences. There will be a link (underlined writing usually in blue) for you to click on that will take you to their website. And guess what? The website they take you to will look like the real thing with the company logo and all.
Next, you will be asked to ‘verify’ your account, password, or credit card information. If you ever find yourself here, STOP! Do nothing. Do not fill in any personal information. Immediately exit from this website and delete the phony email that you received.
How to know that this is a ‘phishing’ email.
If you did not email this company asking for information about your account or for help with a problem, be suspicious. If you are still not sure because it looks so ‘real’, call the company yourself and ask. You can find these phone numbers on your monthly statement. If it is after hours and no one is there to take your call, wait until the next day when you can reach someone. Don’t fall for the ‘imminent danger’ message and feel that you have to take action immediately. ‘Phishers’ are hoping that you will take immediate action – don’t panic and let them trick you into clicking on their link.
What can you do?
Never give someone your password over the internet or phone when it is an unsolicited request. Your credit card company knows what your password and credit card number is. They don’t need to ask you for it.
Likewise, your bank knows what your account number and social security number, they won’t ask you to repeat it verbally over the phone.
Review all of your monthly statements every month as soon as they arrive. Check for charges that you never made. If your statement is ever late in arriving in the mail, call and ask why. Protect yourself from these would-be thieves. Don’t let them take your identity! Please remember to Bookmark www.wheatgrass-fountain-of-youth.info now! Thanks for visiting.
Brought to you by http://www.PrePaid-Legal-Help-4U.com where you have complete legal protection 24/7 for less than $1 a day!
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
There’s a new type of internet piracy called ‘phishing’ (pronounced ‘fishing’). Internet thieves are ‘fishing’ for your personal information. They’re looking for ways to trick you into giving out your Social Security Number, credit card number and other personal information that they can use to their advantage. You could become a victim of identity theft that could take years to clear your financial history and personal reputation. But understanding how these internet thieves work, will help you
Sunday, April 13, 2014
Identity Theft: Stop It Now!
You may be a victim of identity theft and not even know it. Thieves may have secured important information about you and are using it without you knowing what they are doing. By the time you discover their nasty deeds, much damage may have already been done. While you may not be held responsible for their antics, the aggravation and recurring pain you will go through in restoring your good name can be intense. Let’s take a look at some ways you can stop identity theft now.
<b>Protect your social security number.</b> There are very few people in life who really need to know your social security number. Besides government entities and certain creditors, no one should be asking you for that information. If they do, politely refuse or instruct them to mail their request to you in writing.
<b>Block telemarketers.</b> Make certain that your phone number is registered on “do not call” registries to keep telemarketers at bay. You control your phone; get <i>caller i.d.</i> to avoid those who slip through the loopholes in the law.
<b>Chop it up.</b> Important documents you no longer need <i>should not</i> be tossed in the trash without going through a shredder first. Purchase a unit that shreds your paper into small diamonds to ensure that no thief will piece back together important information and make you an easy victim of identity theft.
<b>Examine your monthly statements.</b> With consumers charging just about anything including their gas, food, store, and online purchases, it can be easy to skim through monthly credit card statements without paying attention to every line. Crafty thieves are hoping that you will do just that! Examine each line and respond to anything that doesn’t look legitimate. If you have a dispute, follow the instructions from your credit card supplier on how to contest something that is not right. Usually, in order to maintain your rights, you have to register your dispute in writing.
<b>Guard your mail.</b> Having a mailbox on the street is an easy way for thieves to drive up, take your mail, and cruise away. In some neighborhoods, it is simply better to use a secured post office box than to risk thieves riding off with your mail. If you suspect that someone has stolen your mail, notify your local postmaster. The United States Postal Service has a crack team of investigators who are heavily involved in battling identity theft through mail fraud.
<b>Shield your computer.</b> By running the most current internet security programs, regularly updating your various passwords, and only buying goods through a secure site [which are those with an “s” in their web address: https], you can limit the opportunities for thieves to steal your information.
<b>Order your free credit reports.</b> Beginning in September 2005, the 3 major credit reporting agencies – Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union – are now required to allow consumers to receive one free copy of their personal credit report every year. Some consumers, in order to stay on top of their credit history, order a copy every 4 months from a different agency. Examine your credit reports closely and take the necessary steps to amend all errors.
If you know that you are a victim of identity theft, notify your local police department and file a report with them. In addition, contact all 3 credit reporting agencies and ask that a “fraud alert” be placed in your credit file.
You must take aggressive action to counter this widespread problem and to ensure that your good name and credit record are properly restored. Fight back: you can win the identity theft battle!
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
Protect your credit rating and your good name by guarding against identity theft. By being proactive, you can ensure that thieves stay away from important personal information that they want to use against you!
<b>Protect your social security number.</b> There are very few people in life who really need to know your social security number. Besides government entities and certain creditors, no one should be asking you for that information. If they do, politely refuse or instruct them to mail their request to you in writing.
<b>Block telemarketers.</b> Make certain that your phone number is registered on “do not call” registries to keep telemarketers at bay. You control your phone; get <i>caller i.d.</i> to avoid those who slip through the loopholes in the law.
<b>Chop it up.</b> Important documents you no longer need <i>should not</i> be tossed in the trash without going through a shredder first. Purchase a unit that shreds your paper into small diamonds to ensure that no thief will piece back together important information and make you an easy victim of identity theft.
<b>Examine your monthly statements.</b> With consumers charging just about anything including their gas, food, store, and online purchases, it can be easy to skim through monthly credit card statements without paying attention to every line. Crafty thieves are hoping that you will do just that! Examine each line and respond to anything that doesn’t look legitimate. If you have a dispute, follow the instructions from your credit card supplier on how to contest something that is not right. Usually, in order to maintain your rights, you have to register your dispute in writing.
<b>Guard your mail.</b> Having a mailbox on the street is an easy way for thieves to drive up, take your mail, and cruise away. In some neighborhoods, it is simply better to use a secured post office box than to risk thieves riding off with your mail. If you suspect that someone has stolen your mail, notify your local postmaster. The United States Postal Service has a crack team of investigators who are heavily involved in battling identity theft through mail fraud.
<b>Shield your computer.</b> By running the most current internet security programs, regularly updating your various passwords, and only buying goods through a secure site [which are those with an “s” in their web address: https], you can limit the opportunities for thieves to steal your information.
<b>Order your free credit reports.</b> Beginning in September 2005, the 3 major credit reporting agencies – Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union – are now required to allow consumers to receive one free copy of their personal credit report every year. Some consumers, in order to stay on top of their credit history, order a copy every 4 months from a different agency. Examine your credit reports closely and take the necessary steps to amend all errors.
If you know that you are a victim of identity theft, notify your local police department and file a report with them. In addition, contact all 3 credit reporting agencies and ask that a “fraud alert” be placed in your credit file.
You must take aggressive action to counter this widespread problem and to ensure that your good name and credit record are properly restored. Fight back: you can win the identity theft battle!
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
Protect your credit rating and your good name by guarding against identity theft. By being proactive, you can ensure that thieves stay away from important personal information that they want to use against you!
Identity Theft - IRS Warns Public about Email Scams
The IRS has been the subject of an email scam campaign. They are informing the public to be on the lookout for email indicating they are coming from the Agency. Since the IRS does not send unsolicited emails asking for your personal information, you must assume these emails are written to trick you into giving out financial and personal information you should not be disclosing to the public.
The IRS has noticed an increase in the number of scams. Since November 99 scams have been identified. During the tax filing season, forty were identified. In June an additional twenty surfaced. Many are originating outside of the United States. Some of the countries are Argentina, Aruba, Australia, Austria, Canada, Chile, China, England, Japan, Italy, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, Poland, Singapore and Slovakia. Some have come from the United States.
The IRS will not send you an email requesting personal information of any kind. They won’t try to trick you into disclosing bank account numbers, pin numbers, or credit card information. Since this information can be used for identity theft, you must be aware of everything you do on and offline.
If you give out your personal information, it can then be used to steal your identity and perhaps your financial assets. The IRS has established an email box for you to send suspicious email you receive which appears to have come from the IRS. The email address is : phising@irs.gov. The IRS will investigate your email to determine if it fits into the scam category.
If you experience Identity Theft, the Federal Trade Commission has a consumer web site at http://www.consumer.gov/idtheft/index.html. As in all aspects of life, do your due diligence before providing personal information to anyone you do not know.
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
Identity Theft is prevalent. The IRS will not contact you requesting personal or financial information.
The IRS has noticed an increase in the number of scams. Since November 99 scams have been identified. During the tax filing season, forty were identified. In June an additional twenty surfaced. Many are originating outside of the United States. Some of the countries are Argentina, Aruba, Australia, Austria, Canada, Chile, China, England, Japan, Italy, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, Poland, Singapore and Slovakia. Some have come from the United States.
The IRS will not send you an email requesting personal information of any kind. They won’t try to trick you into disclosing bank account numbers, pin numbers, or credit card information. Since this information can be used for identity theft, you must be aware of everything you do on and offline.
If you give out your personal information, it can then be used to steal your identity and perhaps your financial assets. The IRS has established an email box for you to send suspicious email you receive which appears to have come from the IRS. The email address is : phising@irs.gov. The IRS will investigate your email to determine if it fits into the scam category.
If you experience Identity Theft, the Federal Trade Commission has a consumer web site at http://www.consumer.gov/idtheft/index.html. As in all aspects of life, do your due diligence before providing personal information to anyone you do not know.
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
Identity Theft is prevalent. The IRS will not contact you requesting personal or financial information.
Friday, April 11, 2014
How to Protect Your Files From a Computer Virus
How safe is your computer? Could you be in danger of getting a virus on your system? Just how real is the danger? What steps should you take if any?
While visiting with a one of my students, I became aware that her anti-virus software was over seventeen months old and had never been updated. Upon informing her that she should update her anti-virus software regularly, she was totally surprised. Furthermore she had no concept how essential this was to ensure her system's safety. Therefore I thought it wise to write about some of the precautions you should take to avoid becoming infected with a computer virus.
While there are many 'virus' hoaxes, and please do not pass any of these hoaxes on as these may actually contain viruses, computer viruses do pose a very real danger. Therefore I've listed a few preventative measures that you should take to ensure computer safety.
1. Do install an anti-virus software program and update it often as there are new viruses discovered everyday. I update my anti-virus database daily. At least weekly should be a goal. If you are not updating perpetually, it is like having an insurance policy and never paying the premiums. In no time at all it would be worthless.
2. Be wary of email from strangers. Never open an email with an attachment from a source that is unknown or suspicious. Virus containing emails can be very persuasive in the subject line. Do not let your curiosity be aroused.
I prefer an anti-virus program that has the ability to check all email sent and received. If you update it often, this should keep you safe, although nothing is 100% secure. There are good programs that offer a free version for personal use. These programs generally allow continual updates. Some may require that you register again at the end of year, but the software and updates will still be free.
Two such programs are:
AVG anti-virus, Free edition
http://grisoft.com
Free avast! 4 Home Edition
http://www.avast.com/eng/avast_4_home.html
For more options and reviews on programs you can do a search on google for free anti-virus.
3. Do exercise caution when downloading files from the Internet. Be sure to download from well known and reputable sources. Ascertain that your anti-virus software is set to scan files while you are downloading. I have that feature enabled in my anti-virus program and it scans all files when I am in the process of downloading, and it has on occasion prevented me from downloading a file that was infected or posed a potential danger. These programs work so take advantage of the security your anti-virus will provide by using all of the safety features.
4. New viruses creep upon a daily basis. It is important to back up your important files regularly. CD’s and DVD’s hold a large amount of information. Take advantage of this and store your valuable information and computer programs on these removable disks. In the event that a virus should ever invade your system and your files become corrupted you will be able to replace them with your backup copies.
5. Lastly apply the little rule, 'When in doubt do without'. If you are uncertain, whether it is with an unknown source in your email or a web site that offers a download, then best not to take a chance. No email message or free software is worth the damage to your computer files and the time and expense of repairing your PC. Do not be fooled, computer viruses do affect everyone.
The Internet offers us an array of software, services, entertainment and education that is beneficial. There is no reason to fear the web, it can be safe and secure. Yet it would be unrealistic to assume that there is no danger of computer viruses. There are unscrupulous persons who desire to do you harm. By observing these few guidelines you can minimize any threat of a virus attacking your computer.
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
New viruses creep up every day. A computer virus can completly wipe out your hard drive. Some viruses are next to impossible to get rid of. This article will take you through the steps that will minimize the chances of getting a virus and losing your valuable information.
While visiting with a one of my students, I became aware that her anti-virus software was over seventeen months old and had never been updated. Upon informing her that she should update her anti-virus software regularly, she was totally surprised. Furthermore she had no concept how essential this was to ensure her system's safety. Therefore I thought it wise to write about some of the precautions you should take to avoid becoming infected with a computer virus.
While there are many 'virus' hoaxes, and please do not pass any of these hoaxes on as these may actually contain viruses, computer viruses do pose a very real danger. Therefore I've listed a few preventative measures that you should take to ensure computer safety.
1. Do install an anti-virus software program and update it often as there are new viruses discovered everyday. I update my anti-virus database daily. At least weekly should be a goal. If you are not updating perpetually, it is like having an insurance policy and never paying the premiums. In no time at all it would be worthless.
2. Be wary of email from strangers. Never open an email with an attachment from a source that is unknown or suspicious. Virus containing emails can be very persuasive in the subject line. Do not let your curiosity be aroused.
I prefer an anti-virus program that has the ability to check all email sent and received. If you update it often, this should keep you safe, although nothing is 100% secure. There are good programs that offer a free version for personal use. These programs generally allow continual updates. Some may require that you register again at the end of year, but the software and updates will still be free.
Two such programs are:
AVG anti-virus, Free edition
http://grisoft.com
Free avast! 4 Home Edition
http://www.avast.com/eng/avast_4_home.html
For more options and reviews on programs you can do a search on google for free anti-virus.
3. Do exercise caution when downloading files from the Internet. Be sure to download from well known and reputable sources. Ascertain that your anti-virus software is set to scan files while you are downloading. I have that feature enabled in my anti-virus program and it scans all files when I am in the process of downloading, and it has on occasion prevented me from downloading a file that was infected or posed a potential danger. These programs work so take advantage of the security your anti-virus will provide by using all of the safety features.
4. New viruses creep upon a daily basis. It is important to back up your important files regularly. CD’s and DVD’s hold a large amount of information. Take advantage of this and store your valuable information and computer programs on these removable disks. In the event that a virus should ever invade your system and your files become corrupted you will be able to replace them with your backup copies.
5. Lastly apply the little rule, 'When in doubt do without'. If you are uncertain, whether it is with an unknown source in your email or a web site that offers a download, then best not to take a chance. No email message or free software is worth the damage to your computer files and the time and expense of repairing your PC. Do not be fooled, computer viruses do affect everyone.
The Internet offers us an array of software, services, entertainment and education that is beneficial. There is no reason to fear the web, it can be safe and secure. Yet it would be unrealistic to assume that there is no danger of computer viruses. There are unscrupulous persons who desire to do you harm. By observing these few guidelines you can minimize any threat of a virus attacking your computer.
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
New viruses creep up every day. A computer virus can completly wipe out your hard drive. Some viruses are next to impossible to get rid of. This article will take you through the steps that will minimize the chances of getting a virus and losing your valuable information.
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
How to Check Your Credit Report for Evidence of Identity Theft
Imagine finding the home of your dreams. It's the perfect location, the perfect style, even the perfect price. Excitedly, you start the loan application process. You know this part of the process will be easy since you've always paid your bills on time and only have one credit card which you pay off every month in full. To your surprise, however, your application is refused because multiple credit cards have been taken out in your name, maxed out, and never paid. Your credit is ruined, and your dream home will never be a reality thanks to an identity thief.
This scenario may be hypothetical, but similar situations happen to people all over the country daily. Many people are victims of identity theft and don't even realize it until they need to use their credit for something, such as buying a car or a home. However, it doesn't have to be that way. If you check your credit reports yearly, you can make sure that no unauthorized activities are ruining your credit.
Now that you can receive a copy of your credit report free, the only possible excuse for not monitoring it is that you can't understand how to read it and that's what we're going to discuss now.
The credit report is divided into four parts. The first part contains your personal information, such as name, social security number, and employer. You may want to check over this part for mistakes, but if you're interested in catching identity theft activity you won't find the evidence here.
Instead, one of your focuses should be on the second part of the report. This is your credit history, which includes a list of all your creditors. For each account, you'll find the date the account opened, the type of account it is, the amount the account was originally for, the amount still owed, the amount of the payments, the status of the account, and your payment history. Go over each entry in this section of your report carefully. If you find any accounts which you do not remember opening, make note of them. If any information, such as amount owed, on the accounts does not match your expectations, then make a note of that also.
Once you've reviewed the credit history portion, you'll find the public records section. Again, this probably won't be of much use to you if you're tracking down identity theft evidence because it includes liens, bankruptcies, etc. However, do make sure the information in this section is accurate. Some lenders believe that almost 80% of all credit reports do contain some types of errors and since this section is important you want it to be accurate.
The last section – the Inquiry section – should also be evaluated carefully. You see, each time you or a potential creditor checks your credit report, a note of that inquiry is made in this section. Victims of identity theft are likely to see a number of inquiries, which he or she cannot account for. Now do keep in mind that there are two types of inquiries reported in this section. The “soft” inquiries, as they are called, refer to inquiries made by potential creditors that you did not request. For example, a credit card company may check your credit history before sending you an offer for a gold card. The “hard” inquiries are the ones you need to be interested in because these are the inquires that you supposedly requested. If there's anything on that report you don't agree with, then make a note of it.
Once you have checked your report, contact the credit bureau and the creditors about any mistakes or discrepancies you notice. If you think you've been a victim of identity theft and need to know what steps to take next or if you want more suggestions on how not to become a victim, you need to read Identity Theft: A Resource Guide from PCSecurityNews.com. The ebook is available at http://www.PCSecurityNews.com.
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
How often do you review your credit report? Inside this article you will learn exactly how often you should be checking it and what to look for to recognize evidence of Identity Theft.
This scenario may be hypothetical, but similar situations happen to people all over the country daily. Many people are victims of identity theft and don't even realize it until they need to use their credit for something, such as buying a car or a home. However, it doesn't have to be that way. If you check your credit reports yearly, you can make sure that no unauthorized activities are ruining your credit.
Now that you can receive a copy of your credit report free, the only possible excuse for not monitoring it is that you can't understand how to read it and that's what we're going to discuss now.
The credit report is divided into four parts. The first part contains your personal information, such as name, social security number, and employer. You may want to check over this part for mistakes, but if you're interested in catching identity theft activity you won't find the evidence here.
Instead, one of your focuses should be on the second part of the report. This is your credit history, which includes a list of all your creditors. For each account, you'll find the date the account opened, the type of account it is, the amount the account was originally for, the amount still owed, the amount of the payments, the status of the account, and your payment history. Go over each entry in this section of your report carefully. If you find any accounts which you do not remember opening, make note of them. If any information, such as amount owed, on the accounts does not match your expectations, then make a note of that also.
Once you've reviewed the credit history portion, you'll find the public records section. Again, this probably won't be of much use to you if you're tracking down identity theft evidence because it includes liens, bankruptcies, etc. However, do make sure the information in this section is accurate. Some lenders believe that almost 80% of all credit reports do contain some types of errors and since this section is important you want it to be accurate.
The last section – the Inquiry section – should also be evaluated carefully. You see, each time you or a potential creditor checks your credit report, a note of that inquiry is made in this section. Victims of identity theft are likely to see a number of inquiries, which he or she cannot account for. Now do keep in mind that there are two types of inquiries reported in this section. The “soft” inquiries, as they are called, refer to inquiries made by potential creditors that you did not request. For example, a credit card company may check your credit history before sending you an offer for a gold card. The “hard” inquiries are the ones you need to be interested in because these are the inquires that you supposedly requested. If there's anything on that report you don't agree with, then make a note of it.
Once you have checked your report, contact the credit bureau and the creditors about any mistakes or discrepancies you notice. If you think you've been a victim of identity theft and need to know what steps to take next or if you want more suggestions on how not to become a victim, you need to read Identity Theft: A Resource Guide from PCSecurityNews.com. The ebook is available at http://www.PCSecurityNews.com.
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
How often do you review your credit report? Inside this article you will learn exactly how often you should be checking it and what to look for to recognize evidence of Identity Theft.
Monday, April 7, 2014
How can Government ask for security unless it deploys on its own websites…….
As government and public sectors are upgrading towards Internet, higher technologies, and electronic transactions to achieve their mission and objectives, they will have to have security as a part of this as they cannot neglect the importance of SSL certificates as they help in handling the online security risks.
Why Government Sector needs SSL?
E-governance refers to online government operations such as online voting, remote access to government networks for communication, coordination and collaboration purposes, online filing of tax returns etc.
• To meet privacy, security and safety standards for their various online operations
• SSL certificates are globally accepted for the authentication and hence can be used for secure remote access to government networks.
• SSL is the necessity as reputation of Public Sectors’ relies on the privacy and integrity.
• SSL certificates are must to deliver secure online information and services.
• SSL ensures the protection of privacy of personal and sensitive data.
• With SSL you can share confidential information over an intranet with out the fear of hacking.
• Secured Socket Layer helps in increased public visibility and accountability towards Government.
• Digital certificates reduces the risks of citizens and taxpayers information by maintaining privacy.
• SSL eliminates the chances of online fraud and identity theft.
Before asking citizens to participate in and adapt to various online systems, it is very important for the Government to follow the standards and take care of its online security. SSL certificates are as important as public votes and support for the Government to survive.
Consequences of not deploying an SSL Certificate on a Public Sector / Government website –
• The Government institution/organization will lose credibility if it does not take appropriate security measures. The public sector plays a very important role in the overall economy and direction of a country. It is important that the citizens of a country trust and believe in its government bodies and other public sector institutions.
• Technologizing the public sector is a dream come true for most advocates of technology, since technology increases efficiencies. It is very difficult to get people to use such online systems, if effective security measures are not used.
• The public sector is likely to deal with extremely sensitive information in domains such as defence and national security. The security of such information is of paramount importance for the country and cannot be compromised at any cost. This is one of the highest levels of security requirement.
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
An SSL certificate on the public sector websites shows its concern and care for its citizens and visitors. Successful E-Government and can be achieve through the digital technology of encryption with SSL Certificates.
Why Government Sector needs SSL?
E-governance refers to online government operations such as online voting, remote access to government networks for communication, coordination and collaboration purposes, online filing of tax returns etc.
• To meet privacy, security and safety standards for their various online operations
• SSL certificates are globally accepted for the authentication and hence can be used for secure remote access to government networks.
• SSL is the necessity as reputation of Public Sectors’ relies on the privacy and integrity.
• SSL certificates are must to deliver secure online information and services.
• SSL ensures the protection of privacy of personal and sensitive data.
• With SSL you can share confidential information over an intranet with out the fear of hacking.
• Secured Socket Layer helps in increased public visibility and accountability towards Government.
• Digital certificates reduces the risks of citizens and taxpayers information by maintaining privacy.
• SSL eliminates the chances of online fraud and identity theft.
Before asking citizens to participate in and adapt to various online systems, it is very important for the Government to follow the standards and take care of its online security. SSL certificates are as important as public votes and support for the Government to survive.
Consequences of not deploying an SSL Certificate on a Public Sector / Government website –
• The Government institution/organization will lose credibility if it does not take appropriate security measures. The public sector plays a very important role in the overall economy and direction of a country. It is important that the citizens of a country trust and believe in its government bodies and other public sector institutions.
• Technologizing the public sector is a dream come true for most advocates of technology, since technology increases efficiencies. It is very difficult to get people to use such online systems, if effective security measures are not used.
• The public sector is likely to deal with extremely sensitive information in domains such as defence and national security. The security of such information is of paramount importance for the country and cannot be compromised at any cost. This is one of the highest levels of security requirement.
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
An SSL certificate on the public sector websites shows its concern and care for its citizens and visitors. Successful E-Government and can be achieve through the digital technology of encryption with SSL Certificates.
Saturday, April 5, 2014
How bad guys hack into websites using SQL Injection
SQL Injection is one of the most common security vulnerabilities on the web. Here I'll try to explain in detail this kind of vulnerabilities with examples of bugs in PHP and possible solutions.
If you are not so confident with programming languages and web technologies you may be wondering what SQL stay for. Well, it's an acronym for Structured Query Language (pronounced "sequel"). It's "de facto" the standard language to access and manipulate data in databases.
Nowadays most websites rely on a database (usually MySQL) to store and access data.
Our example will be a common login form. Internet surfers see those login forms every day, you put your username and password in and then the server checks the credentials you supplied. Ok, that's simple, but what happens exactly on the server when he checks your credentials?
The client (or user) sends to the server two strings, the username and the password.
Usually the server will have a database with a table where the user's data are stored. This table has at least two columns, one to store the username and one for the password. When the server receives the username and password strings he will query the database to see if the supplied credentials are valid. He will use an SQL statement for that that may look like this:
SELECT * FROM users WHERE username='SUPPLIED_USER' AND password='SUPPLIED_PASS'
For those of you who are not familiar with the SQL language, in SQL the ' character is used as a delimiter for string variables. Here we use it to delimit the username and password strings supplied by the user.
In this example we see that the username and password supplied are inserted into the query between the ' and the entire query is then executed by the database engine. If the query returns any rows, then the supplied credentials are valid (that user exists in the database and has the password that was supplied).
Now, what happens if a user types a ' character into the username or password field? Well, by putting only a ' into the username field and living the password field blank, the query would become:
SELECT * FROM users WHERE username=''' AND password=''
This would trigger an error, since the database engine would consider the end of the string at the second ' and then it would trigger a parsing error at the third ' character. Let's now what would happen if we would send this input data:
Username: ' OR 'a'='a
Password: ' OR 'a'='a
The query would become
SELECT * FROM users WHERE username='' OR 'a'='a' AND password='' OR 'a'='a'
Since a is always equal to a, this query will return all the rows from the table users and the server will "think" we supplied him with valid credentials and let as in - the SQL injection was successful :).
Now we are going to see some more advanced techniques.. My example will be based on a PHP and MySQL platform. In my MySQL database I created the following table:
CREATE TABLE users (
username VARCHAR(128),
password VARCHAR(128),
email VARCHAR(128))
There's a single row in that table with data:
username: testuser
password: testing
email: testuser@testing.com
To check the credentials I made the following query in the PHP code:
$query="select username, password from users where username='".$user."' and password='".$pass."'";
The server is also configured to print out errors triggered by MySQL (this is useful for debugging, but should be avoided on a production server).
So, last time I showed you how SQL injection basically works. Now I'll show you how can we make more complex queries and how to use the MySQL error messages to get more information about the database structure.
Lets get started! So, if we put just an ' character in the username field we get an error message like
You have an error in your SQL syntax; check the manual that corresponds to your MySQL server version for the right syntax to use near '''' and password=''' at line 1
That's because the query became
select username, password from users where username=''' and password=''
What happens now if we try to put into the username field a string like ' or user='abc ?
The query becomes
select username, password from users where username='' or user='abc ' and password=''
And this give us the error message
Unknown column 'user' in 'where clause'
That's fine! Using these error messages we can guess the columns in the table. We can try to put in the username field ' or email=' and since we get no error message, we know that the email column exists in that table. If we know the email address of a user, we can now just try with ' or email='testuser@testing.com in both the username and password fields and our query becomes
select username, password from users where username='' or email='testuser@testing.com' and password='' or email='testuser@testing.com'
which is a valid query and if that email address exists in the table we will successfully login!
You can also use the error messages to guess the table name. Since in SQL you can use the table.column notation, you can try to put in the username field ' or user.test=' and you will see an error message like
Unknown table 'user' in where clause
Fine! Let's try with ' or users.test=' and we have
Unknown column 'users.test' in 'where clause'
so logically there's a table named users :).
Basically, if the server is configured to give out the error messages, you can use them to enumerate the database structure and then you may be able to use these informations in an attack.
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
SQL injections are one of the most common vulnerability around the internet today. There are literally thousands of vulnerable websites around. This article explains how these attacks work.
If you are not so confident with programming languages and web technologies you may be wondering what SQL stay for. Well, it's an acronym for Structured Query Language (pronounced "sequel"). It's "de facto" the standard language to access and manipulate data in databases.
Nowadays most websites rely on a database (usually MySQL) to store and access data.
Our example will be a common login form. Internet surfers see those login forms every day, you put your username and password in and then the server checks the credentials you supplied. Ok, that's simple, but what happens exactly on the server when he checks your credentials?
The client (or user) sends to the server two strings, the username and the password.
Usually the server will have a database with a table where the user's data are stored. This table has at least two columns, one to store the username and one for the password. When the server receives the username and password strings he will query the database to see if the supplied credentials are valid. He will use an SQL statement for that that may look like this:
SELECT * FROM users WHERE username='SUPPLIED_USER' AND password='SUPPLIED_PASS'
For those of you who are not familiar with the SQL language, in SQL the ' character is used as a delimiter for string variables. Here we use it to delimit the username and password strings supplied by the user.
In this example we see that the username and password supplied are inserted into the query between the ' and the entire query is then executed by the database engine. If the query returns any rows, then the supplied credentials are valid (that user exists in the database and has the password that was supplied).
Now, what happens if a user types a ' character into the username or password field? Well, by putting only a ' into the username field and living the password field blank, the query would become:
SELECT * FROM users WHERE username=''' AND password=''
This would trigger an error, since the database engine would consider the end of the string at the second ' and then it would trigger a parsing error at the third ' character. Let's now what would happen if we would send this input data:
Username: ' OR 'a'='a
Password: ' OR 'a'='a
The query would become
SELECT * FROM users WHERE username='' OR 'a'='a' AND password='' OR 'a'='a'
Since a is always equal to a, this query will return all the rows from the table users and the server will "think" we supplied him with valid credentials and let as in - the SQL injection was successful :).
Now we are going to see some more advanced techniques.. My example will be based on a PHP and MySQL platform. In my MySQL database I created the following table:
CREATE TABLE users (
username VARCHAR(128),
password VARCHAR(128),
email VARCHAR(128))
There's a single row in that table with data:
username: testuser
password: testing
email: testuser@testing.com
To check the credentials I made the following query in the PHP code:
$query="select username, password from users where username='".$user."' and password='".$pass."'";
The server is also configured to print out errors triggered by MySQL (this is useful for debugging, but should be avoided on a production server).
So, last time I showed you how SQL injection basically works. Now I'll show you how can we make more complex queries and how to use the MySQL error messages to get more information about the database structure.
Lets get started! So, if we put just an ' character in the username field we get an error message like
You have an error in your SQL syntax; check the manual that corresponds to your MySQL server version for the right syntax to use near '''' and password=''' at line 1
That's because the query became
select username, password from users where username=''' and password=''
What happens now if we try to put into the username field a string like ' or user='abc ?
The query becomes
select username, password from users where username='' or user='abc ' and password=''
And this give us the error message
Unknown column 'user' in 'where clause'
That's fine! Using these error messages we can guess the columns in the table. We can try to put in the username field ' or email=' and since we get no error message, we know that the email column exists in that table. If we know the email address of a user, we can now just try with ' or email='testuser@testing.com in both the username and password fields and our query becomes
select username, password from users where username='' or email='testuser@testing.com' and password='' or email='testuser@testing.com'
which is a valid query and if that email address exists in the table we will successfully login!
You can also use the error messages to guess the table name. Since in SQL you can use the table.column notation, you can try to put in the username field ' or user.test=' and you will see an error message like
Unknown table 'user' in where clause
Fine! Let's try with ' or users.test=' and we have
Unknown column 'users.test' in 'where clause'
so logically there's a table named users :).
Basically, if the server is configured to give out the error messages, you can use them to enumerate the database structure and then you may be able to use these informations in an attack.
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
SQL injections are one of the most common vulnerability around the internet today. There are literally thousands of vulnerable websites around. This article explains how these attacks work.
Thursday, April 3, 2014
How To Shop Safely Online For Any Occasions
Here are several things to keep in mind when shopping online for any special occasions.
Pay with a Credit Card and Protect Your Passwords: Credit cards offer you the most protection as a consumer. Never send cash! If you pay by credit card, your transaction is protected by the Fair Credit Billing Act. This limits your liability for any unauthorized charges
to only $50.
Understand the Return Policy: Determine the company�s refund and return policies before you place any order. Generally, any item that has been engraved or personalized in any way, will not qualify for the store�s Return Policy. Some countries don't have the same return policies as we do here in North America, so know where you shop and always read their return policy if has any.
Shop with Security: When online, look for a symbol of an unbroken key or padlock of the bottom of your Web browser window to ensure that your transmission is protected. Always enter the url manually to your browser instead of clicking links thru emails messages to ensure maximum security.
Print all Transaction Records: Make sure to print or save electronically any records related to your online transactions. This will help you keep track of shipping dates, shipping and handling fees, and other details of your transaction. Take as much info as possible including names, their title and phone numbers in case of
disputes.
File a Complaint
If you suspect the business may have broken the law, file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission. You can call the FTC toll-free at 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357) or file a complaint online at www.ftc.gov. or report it to your local Better Business Bureau.
Check the Site�s Privacy Policy: The company�s privacy policy should let you know what personal information the company is collecting, why, and how the information is going to be used. Be cautious if you're asked to supply personal information, such as your Social Security number or personal bank account information to conduct a transaction. When you shop online, you should never ever have to provide any sensitive information such as your Social Security Number, if they do, shop somewhere else.
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
Here are few simple tips on how to shop safely online.
Pay with a Credit Card and Protect Your Passwords: Credit cards offer you the most protection as a consumer. Never send cash! If you pay by credit card, your transaction is protected by the Fair Credit Billing Act. This limits your liability for any unauthorized charges
to only $50.
Understand the Return Policy: Determine the company�s refund and return policies before you place any order. Generally, any item that has been engraved or personalized in any way, will not qualify for the store�s Return Policy. Some countries don't have the same return policies as we do here in North America, so know where you shop and always read their return policy if has any.
Shop with Security: When online, look for a symbol of an unbroken key or padlock of the bottom of your Web browser window to ensure that your transmission is protected. Always enter the url manually to your browser instead of clicking links thru emails messages to ensure maximum security.
Print all Transaction Records: Make sure to print or save electronically any records related to your online transactions. This will help you keep track of shipping dates, shipping and handling fees, and other details of your transaction. Take as much info as possible including names, their title and phone numbers in case of
disputes.
File a Complaint
If you suspect the business may have broken the law, file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission. You can call the FTC toll-free at 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357) or file a complaint online at www.ftc.gov. or report it to your local Better Business Bureau.
Check the Site�s Privacy Policy: The company�s privacy policy should let you know what personal information the company is collecting, why, and how the information is going to be used. Be cautious if you're asked to supply personal information, such as your Social Security number or personal bank account information to conduct a transaction. When you shop online, you should never ever have to provide any sensitive information such as your Social Security Number, if they do, shop somewhere else.
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
Here are few simple tips on how to shop safely online.
Tuesday, April 1, 2014
How To Recognize Ebay Scams
Shopping and selling on eBay can be one of the most rewarding experiences on the Internet. However you need to be careful of scam artists who will try to take advantage of you through various types of fraud. If you do get scammed on eBay there are ways you can get your money back. However, it is very difficult to ever catch the fraud artist and it is a lot simpler if you can recognize and avoid frauds from the beginning.
One of the scams that are very common today is fake e-mails that appear to originate from eBay or PayPal or even your bank. Keep in mind that anybody can spoof any e-mail address and send an e-mail that appears to be from somebody else. It is even possible to spoof an e-mail coming from the president of the United States. So when you see any e-mail in your inbox that comes from eBay or PayPal and asks you to log in to confirm your password the chances are that this is a scam. E-mails that you receive of this type will have eBay letterheads or PayPal letterheads and will direct you to a link that appears to be eBay or PayPal. However, if you look closely at the bottom of your browser you’ll generally see that the domain these links point to is not actually an eBay or PayPal domain. It just looks like eBay’s web site, but it is actually a scam site asking you to confirm your password. Once you put in your username and password the fraud artist has it. One of the more popular tactics being used right now is to send a fake payment notification from PayPal suggesting that you have paid for something which you did not buy. The e-mail and includes a link right in the center that says “dispute this charge”, and once you click on that link you are taken to a page that looks like PayPal but is actually a fraudulent web site designed to get you to enter your username and password.
One of the easiest ways to protect yourself on eBay is to use PayPal for all transactions. PayPal is a wholly-owned subsidiary of eBay, and so transactions that are paid for via PayPal can be easily disputed. Since it is in eBay’s interest to maintain a secure shopping environment they are generally very quick to resolve disputes that originate by PayPal. If you buy an item and are not satisfied with it and feel like the seller did not deliver what he promised, it is far easier to dispute that transaction fee with PayPal because eBay can reverse the funds themselves. If you purchased by money order or credit card or some other payment method, eBay does not have the opportunity to reverse charges without going through a third-party.
Whether you are buying or selling items is a good idea to stick with PayPal. If you are selling items it is a good idea to only except PayPal as a payment option. The last thing you need is to get a bad check, or have your buyer dispute his credit card charge. If you have fulfilled your end of the seller’s bargain, then all you’ll need to do is prove that to PayPal and eBay without involving a third-party. Generally speaking, if a buyer is unhappy with a product that you sold and does not consider the product to be in the condition advertised, then you should demand that the product be returned before you issue a refund.
In order to sell on eBay effectively you need to learn how to use reserve pricing. One of the most common schemes on eBay is for someone using multiple accounts to place a low bid and a high bid simultaneously under different aliases. This ties up your auction at the high bid price and allows of the fraud to be carried out when the high bid buyer declines to pay and you are confronted with a low second bid. This scam is effective because the seller feels obligated to sell the item to the second-highest bidder once the auction has fallen through with the top bidder. Placing a reserve is essential to avoid this kind of scam so be sure to set a reserve price at the point where you would not sell the product for any less.
It is worthwhile to note right on your auction page that you reserve the right to back out of selling an item if you suspect fraud. While it is easy to get scammed as a buyer it is even easier to get scammed as a seller. Sellers generally have more experience and can recognize these scams, but you should be aware of the pitfalls of selling upfront before you start selling items on eBay.
EBay is a very safe and secure way to shop if you use it wisely and remain aware of how fraud occurs. It is important to always report suspicious activity directly to the eBay or PayPal. Since they have a vested interest in assuring that reliable transactions occur without fraud you can be sure that they will do their best to prevent illegal fraudulent activity.
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
Shopping and selling on eBay can be one of the most rewarding experiences on the Internet. However you need to be careful of scam artists who will try to take advantage of you through various types of fraud. If you do get scammed on eBay there are ways you can get your money back. However, it is very difficult to ever catch the fraud artist and it is a lot simpler if you can recognize and avoid frauds from the beginning.
One of the scams that are very common today is fake ...
One of the scams that are very common today is fake e-mails that appear to originate from eBay or PayPal or even your bank. Keep in mind that anybody can spoof any e-mail address and send an e-mail that appears to be from somebody else. It is even possible to spoof an e-mail coming from the president of the United States. So when you see any e-mail in your inbox that comes from eBay or PayPal and asks you to log in to confirm your password the chances are that this is a scam. E-mails that you receive of this type will have eBay letterheads or PayPal letterheads and will direct you to a link that appears to be eBay or PayPal. However, if you look closely at the bottom of your browser you’ll generally see that the domain these links point to is not actually an eBay or PayPal domain. It just looks like eBay’s web site, but it is actually a scam site asking you to confirm your password. Once you put in your username and password the fraud artist has it. One of the more popular tactics being used right now is to send a fake payment notification from PayPal suggesting that you have paid for something which you did not buy. The e-mail and includes a link right in the center that says “dispute this charge”, and once you click on that link you are taken to a page that looks like PayPal but is actually a fraudulent web site designed to get you to enter your username and password.
One of the easiest ways to protect yourself on eBay is to use PayPal for all transactions. PayPal is a wholly-owned subsidiary of eBay, and so transactions that are paid for via PayPal can be easily disputed. Since it is in eBay’s interest to maintain a secure shopping environment they are generally very quick to resolve disputes that originate by PayPal. If you buy an item and are not satisfied with it and feel like the seller did not deliver what he promised, it is far easier to dispute that transaction fee with PayPal because eBay can reverse the funds themselves. If you purchased by money order or credit card or some other payment method, eBay does not have the opportunity to reverse charges without going through a third-party.
Whether you are buying or selling items is a good idea to stick with PayPal. If you are selling items it is a good idea to only except PayPal as a payment option. The last thing you need is to get a bad check, or have your buyer dispute his credit card charge. If you have fulfilled your end of the seller’s bargain, then all you’ll need to do is prove that to PayPal and eBay without involving a third-party. Generally speaking, if a buyer is unhappy with a product that you sold and does not consider the product to be in the condition advertised, then you should demand that the product be returned before you issue a refund.
In order to sell on eBay effectively you need to learn how to use reserve pricing. One of the most common schemes on eBay is for someone using multiple accounts to place a low bid and a high bid simultaneously under different aliases. This ties up your auction at the high bid price and allows of the fraud to be carried out when the high bid buyer declines to pay and you are confronted with a low second bid. This scam is effective because the seller feels obligated to sell the item to the second-highest bidder once the auction has fallen through with the top bidder. Placing a reserve is essential to avoid this kind of scam so be sure to set a reserve price at the point where you would not sell the product for any less.
It is worthwhile to note right on your auction page that you reserve the right to back out of selling an item if you suspect fraud. While it is easy to get scammed as a buyer it is even easier to get scammed as a seller. Sellers generally have more experience and can recognize these scams, but you should be aware of the pitfalls of selling upfront before you start selling items on eBay.
EBay is a very safe and secure way to shop if you use it wisely and remain aware of how fraud occurs. It is important to always report suspicious activity directly to the eBay or PayPal. Since they have a vested interest in assuring that reliable transactions occur without fraud you can be sure that they will do their best to prevent illegal fraudulent activity.
===========================================
<!-- Beginning of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
<script type="text/javascript"><!--
GAF_text_color = "black";
GAF_link_color = "green";
GAF_title_color = "blue";
//--></script>
<script src="http://www.freelancer.com/widgets/projects/hs2.js"></script>
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2_box" style="width: 468px; height: 60px; padding: 0px; font-family:sans-serif; font-size: 11px;">
<div style="padding: 0px; overflow: hidden">
<div id="GAF_projects_hs2" style="padding:3px; cellpadding:0px;"></div>
<div style="padding: 0px;" align="right"><span style="font-size:11px; padding: 0px;">
<a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue" style="text-decoration: none">Outsourcing Services</font></a>?
Try <a href="http://www.freelancer.com/" target="_blank"><font color="blue">Freelancer.com</font></a>.
</div>
</div></div>
<script src="http://api.freelancer.com/Project/Search.json?aff=4329971&callback=GAF_update_projects_hs2_callback&order=rand&count=2&iads=true&nonpublic=0&charset=UTF-8"></script>
<!-- End of Freelancer.com Affiliates Widget -->
===========================================
Summary:
Shopping and selling on eBay can be one of the most rewarding experiences on the Internet. However you need to be careful of scam artists who will try to take advantage of you through various types of fraud. If you do get scammed on eBay there are ways you can get your money back. However, it is very difficult to ever catch the fraud artist and it is a lot simpler if you can recognize and avoid frauds from the beginning.
One of the scams that are very common today is fake ...
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)