If after reading this you have a suggestion, please send it along. I would like to continue to improve this list over time for people that are victims of a hacking:
1. The unfortunate thing about e-mail and facebook is it is all "free" so help is tough but available. They do have fraud forms to fill out.
See also: http://www.eztechtips.com/has-my-gmail-account-been-hacked/
This is what Facebook says to do about the hacked account and money transfer scheme:
http://www.facebook.com/help/?page=420#!/help.php?page=1010
2. Also, this might have happened through a PC virus. Please stop using home and work PC until they are checked out. Call your PC support desk or seek out a local expert to assist you with your computer to find and isolate the virus.
Microsoft provides free virus and spyware removal support to Windows customers who think they have an infected computer.
Call: 1-866-PC Safety for phone support.
Online: Microsoft customers can also visit http://safety.live.com for
free online virus and spyware removal.
Apple provides help to computers users that believe their Mac may be infected.
Call: 1-800-APL-CARE (1-800-275-2273)
Online: Set up a phone appointment
http://www.apple.com/support/expert/ or,
request an in-person appointment at your closest
Apple Store’s Genius Bar:
http://www.apple.com/retail/geniusbar/ .
3. IMMEDIATELY change passwords to bank accounts. Actively monitor bank and credit card accounts. Look for suspicious charges, even if they are for very small amounts.
I recommend online alert services where you can set up alerts to notify you if a transaction takes place or if a transaction is over a certain amount. Go to your online banking page for more information.
As a precaution, also FREEZE the credit file. Request alerts on your credit reports. .
Online:
Equifax: http://www.equifax.com
Experian: http://www.experian.com/
TransUnion: http://www.transunion.com/
North Carolina offers a free credit freeze for victims of identity theft. Check your state for more information. For how NC works, go to the following website for more information:
http://www.ncdoj.gov/News-and-Alerts/Alerts/Freeze-your-credit-for-free.aspx.
Engage local law enforcement authorities. They are committing fraud.
a. File a report at the FBI's IC3.gov.
b. Contact the Federal Trade Commission.
Federal Trade Commission:
Call: 877-IDTHEFT or 877-438-4338
Online: http://www.consumer.gov/idtheft
Also contact privacyrights.org for more information.
Online: http://www.privacyrights.org/
Online safety. Online security. Protecting Yourself Online. Protecting Kids Online. Keeping the U.S. Safe from Cybercreeps. Cybercrime. Protecting Against Fraud.
Showing posts with label email. Show all posts
Showing posts with label email. Show all posts
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Will You Check Work Email Over the Holidays?
A new survey is out and over half of you say YES you will be checking work email over the holidays. Xobni and Harris Interactive gave the following statistics:
59% of American workers will check email over the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays
55% of the 59% will check it at least 1x a day
28% of the 59% will check it several times a day
42% of the 59% say it is important to check in over the holiday and some even admitted it was a welcome distraction.
For the Southern folk - the southerners are the most likely to check in boxes on holiday.
For bosses that want to be this holiday's Scrooge to keep in mind - 41% of Americans are annoyed when they get emails over the holidays
Sources:
"Most Americans check work email over the holidays", Radhika Marya, Mashable, November 23, 2010.
59% of American workers will check email over the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays
55% of the 59% will check it at least 1x a day
28% of the 59% will check it several times a day
42% of the 59% say it is important to check in over the holiday and some even admitted it was a welcome distraction.
For the Southern folk - the southerners are the most likely to check in boxes on holiday.
For bosses that want to be this holiday's Scrooge to keep in mind - 41% of Americans are annoyed when they get emails over the holidays
Sources:
"Most Americans check work email over the holidays", Radhika Marya, Mashable, November 23, 2010.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Facebook gets tough on email scams
In a positive move, Facebook filed lawsuits this week against the scammers hitting it's site and it's users.
The three lawsuits filed name people and a company and accuse them of tricking Facebook users into visiting internet marketing websites.
In one of the scams, they created fake "dislike" buttons that then hijacked the user's account and sometimes their money.
There was a fake "Facebook Gold Account" offering slick features but really just took their data and sold it.
A reminder to us all that when something seems to good to be true, it probably is!
Sources:
"Facebook sues over free gift card, 'dislike' button scams", Robert McMillan, MacWorld, October 21, 2010.
The three lawsuits filed name people and a company and accuse them of tricking Facebook users into visiting internet marketing websites.
In one of the scams, they created fake "dislike" buttons that then hijacked the user's account and sometimes their money.
There was a fake "Facebook Gold Account" offering slick features but really just took their data and sold it.
A reminder to us all that when something seems to good to be true, it probably is!
Sources:
"Facebook sues over free gift card, 'dislike' button scams", Robert McMillan, MacWorld, October 21, 2010.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Avoid the nightmare of losing your address book. Helpful tips.
Link the WBTV Video
n the US, over 12 million cell phones are lost each year and 700,000 are stolen.
This is a nightmare scenario. You need to make a phone call and find out that your address book is suddenly empty or your cell phone is missing. If your job counts on you having a large rolodex this situation can be overwhelming.
What would happen to you if your contacts were lost?
Former White House Cyber Security Expert, Theresa Payton has some options for saving your contacts to a safe place and recovery options in the event something happens to your cell phone.
How to avoid a BAD situation:
B - Back up files. Most smart phones and cell phones come with software that you can use on your computer so you can create a back up file.
A - Access to your contacts may be available another way. You may have files on your computer or Mac that you could use. For example:
."ipd" at the end, that file has BlackBerry contacts.
."csv" at the end, that file can be imported into most address book and email programs and then synchronized to your phone.
vCard files can be imported into most contact programs.
D - Don't rely on just having your contacts on your phone or computer. Keep a copy in multiple places. Have a hard copy of the 5 most important contacts in the event of an emergency.
The following are resources that can help you build or re-build your list of contacts on your phone and computer.
See this link for helpful resources on how to back up your contacts: Website Tips & Resources
As always. please make comments and suggestions on what you want to hear about!
Thank you!
n the US, over 12 million cell phones are lost each year and 700,000 are stolen.
This is a nightmare scenario. You need to make a phone call and find out that your address book is suddenly empty or your cell phone is missing. If your job counts on you having a large rolodex this situation can be overwhelming.
What would happen to you if your contacts were lost?
Former White House Cyber Security Expert, Theresa Payton has some options for saving your contacts to a safe place and recovery options in the event something happens to your cell phone.
How to avoid a BAD situation:
B - Back up files. Most smart phones and cell phones come with software that you can use on your computer so you can create a back up file.
A - Access to your contacts may be available another way. You may have files on your computer or Mac that you could use. For example:
."ipd" at the end, that file has BlackBerry contacts.
."csv" at the end, that file can be imported into most address book and email programs and then synchronized to your phone.
vCard files can be imported into most contact programs.
D - Don't rely on just having your contacts on your phone or computer. Keep a copy in multiple places. Have a hard copy of the 5 most important contacts in the event of an emergency.
The following are resources that can help you build or re-build your list of contacts on your phone and computer.
See this link for helpful resources on how to back up your contacts: Website Tips & Resources
As always. please make comments and suggestions on what you want to hear about!
Thank you!
Friday, February 19, 2010
Looking for a job? Don't work for a Botnet Herder! Criminals are posting help wanted ads online.
HOW TO AVOID THE BOTNET HERDERS
Would you know if your child was a botnet herder?
There’s a new game in town offering jobs to anyone with a home office and a computer. Be careful what you or your kids accept when applying for jobs online. You or your kids may be accepting a job working for a Cybercriminal outfit.
Cybercriminals are posting help wanted ads on the internet and they are hiring people to help them infect computers across the Carolinas and even across the globe.
The going rate? $180 for every 1,000 PCs infected.
Link to TV segment: http://www.wbtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=11980960
YOU NEED TO PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR KIDS FROM THIS SCAM:
Some of the ads are obvious and you know you are infecting computers. Some, are not so obvious and may sound more like you are working for a marketing company. Kids looking to earn money over spring break and summer months could fall into a trap and they may not realize they are doing something wrong.
HOW TO SPOT THE ADS:
In the more obvious ads, Cybercriminals are hiring individuals willing to infect people’s computers with malicious software. In the less obvious, the ads may look like you are doing marketing and you just need to get the message out through emails and web pages.
The job duties may include:
Send spam or socially engineered emails
Include a link to malicious software
Job performance is determined by how many PCs they can infect.
PCs in the UK and the US are considered the target group.
They will even pay your wages to you via services such as PayPal and Western Union.
Once the PC is infected, the cybercriminals can come in after that and do what they want.
They may provide you with:
-A kit or directs you to places where you can buy a kit to create your web page or emails.
-Instructions on how to hide their software behind the link.
HOW TO AVOID THE SCAM
One way to avoid this scam is to check in with your Better Business Bureau.
Remind your kids not to apply for jobs online without discussing it with you first.
Follow the rule: If it sounds to good to be true, it probably is.
WORD FOR THE WEEK
Botnet Herder
A botnet herder is a person that has installed software on thousands of machines and has them in their control. They may use the herd of machines, which they call zombies, for attacks on other machines. Like to create mail sent to people in your address book that looks like it is from you, or to steal your information. Botnet herders will also rent out their herd to cybercriminals to use.
SIGNS THAT YOUR PC MAY BE UNDER THE CONTROL OF A BOTNET HERDER
Computer programs taking longer than usual to load
Computer locks up or reboots itself
Odd error messages
Peripheral devices such as printers and scanners are not recognized
Lots of internal noise such as disk writing or beeping or clicking
Computer seems to be running tasks even when you have no programs open
Files corrupted or missing
Friends call or email to tell you they are getting a lot of strange email traffic from your account
Your antivirus software runs too quickly or not at all
WHAT TO DO IF YOUR COMPUTER HAS THESE SYMPTOMS
If your computer has any of these symptoms, run your Antivirus software. If it continues, contact your antivirus software provider and the company that services your machine for professional assistance.
HOW TO SPOT THESE JOB SITES:
Where are some of these criminal jobsites? Many of them change their names to avoid detection. The key is to check site history on your computer and look up any companies your kids may be visiting online.
The more obvious sites describe “Pay Per Install” as part of their payment model on their website.
Two of the more recent sites that you want to check for and block are:
Pay-Per-Install.org
earning4u.com. (formerly known as InstallsCash)
WHAT TO DO IF YOU SPOT ONE OF THESE COMPANIES:
If you think you have received an email solicitation, you can report it to at least two places:
The Federal Trade Commission at spam@uce.gov.
The FBI’s Internet Crime Center at www.ic3.gov.
If you believe you or your kid was duped and that you might be working for a Botnet herder, please contact your Local Law Enforcement immediately and send information to the FBI Internet Crime Center listed above.
Would you know if your child was a botnet herder?
There’s a new game in town offering jobs to anyone with a home office and a computer. Be careful what you or your kids accept when applying for jobs online. You or your kids may be accepting a job working for a Cybercriminal outfit.
Cybercriminals are posting help wanted ads on the internet and they are hiring people to help them infect computers across the Carolinas and even across the globe.
The going rate? $180 for every 1,000 PCs infected.
Link to TV segment: http://www.wbtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=11980960
YOU NEED TO PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR KIDS FROM THIS SCAM:
Some of the ads are obvious and you know you are infecting computers. Some, are not so obvious and may sound more like you are working for a marketing company. Kids looking to earn money over spring break and summer months could fall into a trap and they may not realize they are doing something wrong.
HOW TO SPOT THE ADS:
In the more obvious ads, Cybercriminals are hiring individuals willing to infect people’s computers with malicious software. In the less obvious, the ads may look like you are doing marketing and you just need to get the message out through emails and web pages.
The job duties may include:
Send spam or socially engineered emails
Include a link to malicious software
Job performance is determined by how many PCs they can infect.
PCs in the UK and the US are considered the target group.
They will even pay your wages to you via services such as PayPal and Western Union.
Once the PC is infected, the cybercriminals can come in after that and do what they want.
They may provide you with:
-A kit or directs you to places where you can buy a kit to create your web page or emails.
-Instructions on how to hide their software behind the link.
HOW TO AVOID THE SCAM
One way to avoid this scam is to check in with your Better Business Bureau.
Remind your kids not to apply for jobs online without discussing it with you first.
Follow the rule: If it sounds to good to be true, it probably is.
WORD FOR THE WEEK
Botnet Herder
A botnet herder is a person that has installed software on thousands of machines and has them in their control. They may use the herd of machines, which they call zombies, for attacks on other machines. Like to create mail sent to people in your address book that looks like it is from you, or to steal your information. Botnet herders will also rent out their herd to cybercriminals to use.
SIGNS THAT YOUR PC MAY BE UNDER THE CONTROL OF A BOTNET HERDER
Computer programs taking longer than usual to load
Computer locks up or reboots itself
Odd error messages
Peripheral devices such as printers and scanners are not recognized
Lots of internal noise such as disk writing or beeping or clicking
Computer seems to be running tasks even when you have no programs open
Files corrupted or missing
Friends call or email to tell you they are getting a lot of strange email traffic from your account
Your antivirus software runs too quickly or not at all
WHAT TO DO IF YOUR COMPUTER HAS THESE SYMPTOMS
If your computer has any of these symptoms, run your Antivirus software. If it continues, contact your antivirus software provider and the company that services your machine for professional assistance.
HOW TO SPOT THESE JOB SITES:
Where are some of these criminal jobsites? Many of them change their names to avoid detection. The key is to check site history on your computer and look up any companies your kids may be visiting online.
The more obvious sites describe “Pay Per Install” as part of their payment model on their website.
Two of the more recent sites that you want to check for and block are:
Pay-Per-Install.org
earning4u.com. (formerly known as InstallsCash)
WHAT TO DO IF YOU SPOT ONE OF THESE COMPANIES:
If you think you have received an email solicitation, you can report it to at least two places:
The Federal Trade Commission at spam@uce.gov.
The FBI’s Internet Crime Center at www.ic3.gov.
If you believe you or your kid was duped and that you might be working for a Botnet herder, please contact your Local Law Enforcement immediately and send information to the FBI Internet Crime Center listed above.
Gangs Are Targeting Your Kids Via the Internet - Quick Quiz to test your Cyber Banging Saavy
Word for the Week: Cyber Banging
Also called Net Banging - This refers to the internet recruiting process that gangs use to target kids. Gangs typically target high school and middle school kids but there are cases where kids as young as 8 have been recruited.
1.6 Million, that’s the number of employees, across the globe that support Walmart.
1 Million and growing, that’s the number of gang members in the United States.
Are your kids looking at gang propaganda online? Chances are you would not know, a recent study says that 62% of kids lie to their parents about what they do online.
As a parent, you protect your kids by teaching them safety rules, checking on their friends, and keeping tabs on their activities. Gangs know this to so they have a new recruiting tool to get around you and directly to your kids – the internet.
Link to WBTV segment: Gangs Targeting Your Kids Via The Internet
One example of how glorified gang life is can be seen on YouTube.com. Lil Slim’s “Getting $” music video, which glorifies gang activities, has over 30,000 views.
Think you know how Gangs target their new recruits?
Test your knowledge with this quick quiz:
1) Q: What are the colors worn by the MS-13 gang?
A: Blue and White
2) Q: Gang Identifiers Include which of the following:
a) Wearing a specific color or colors regularly
b) 5-Pointed Star
c) Star of David
d) Playboy bunny
e) None of the Above
f) All of the above
A: All of the above
3) True or False: If you see someone wearing Charlotte Hornets gear they might be a member of a gang.
True. Don’t jump to conclusions that everyone that wears Charlotte Hornets gear is a gang member but this logo is popular with the Spanish Cobras and the 4 Corner Hustlers.
4) True or False: If you see a cap that looks like a NY Yankee’s cap but the tail of the Y is off so it looks like VN instead of NY, that’s just a kid having fun.
Most likely False. This is what the LA gang called Van Nuys is doing to mark their members. You can see this NY Yankee-like symbol touted on Facebook and YouTube. You may seen this worn by a gang member or a wannabe.
5) True or False: Your kid would not go to gang music sites to download songs.
Could be True or False. You should check. Kids are downloading gang songs from places such as 818 Gangland Musik Page for free.
GANGS HAVE NEW RECRUITING TOOLS:
The Bait: Social networking via the internet is the new recruiting tool for MS-13 and other gangs and they ARE targeting your kids.
The Hook: Young people that are surfing online may come across pictures, music, or videos about gangs. Of course kids are curious so they click and see something that glorifies gang life…That’s when a gang member may strike up a chat with them online and try to lure them into their club.
GANG STATISTICS:
Think this is an overplayed issue? Here are some startling statistics from a recent survey:
70% of gang members say it is easier to make friends online
89% of kids say they are the major user of technology at their house
41% of kids say they do not share with their parents what they are doing on the internet
HOW TO PROTECT YOUR CHILD:
TALK: Talk with your child about the places they visit while online. Look at some of the gang propaganda together and talk about why it is false or glorified.
TEACH: Keep your home PC in a central location so you can keep an eye on what they search. Teach your kids that where they go online is just as important as the rules you have for them offline.
TELL: Be familiar with what your local gangs wear, such as certain colors, jewelry, or logos, to show they are a member. Tell your kids not to dress like gang wannabes so they will not be targeted while at school or play.
WARNING SIGNS:
APPEARANCE: Your kid’s clothing preferences change dramatically. Your kid suddenly insists on wearing a specific color or a logo. A new tattoo, permanent or henna. Unexplained injuries. Begins using gang slang.
SOCIAL: Starts withdrawing from school, family, and possibly even their friends. Talks about gang life in an idolized way.
INTERESTS: Gang music or gang insignias on their phones and music lists. Likes to watch gang related movies.
RESOURCES:
FBI Gang Threat Site: http://www.fbi.gov/page2/feb09/ngta_020609.html
Department of Justice – Community Services: www.cops.usdoj.gov
Violence Prevention Institute: http://www.violencepreventioninstitute.org/youngpeople.html
National Youth Gang Prevention Center: http://ojjdp.ncjrs.gov/pubs/gun_violence/sect08-f.html
NC Gang Awareness:
http://www.ncgangcops.org/NCGangAwareness.pdf
Parents Universal Resource Experts (PURE™):
http://www.helpyourteens.com/index.php
Parent Advocate Sue Scheff on Avoiding the Gangs:
http://www.suescheff.info/
Organization focused on consumer safety, security, and privacy:
http://ilookbothways.com/
Dr. Michele Borba, Child Expert Talks About Kids and Conflict:
http://www.micheleborba.com/blog/
Mary Kay Hoal, Internet Safety Expert, Offers Advice About Social Networks and Gang Exposure:
http://internet-safety.yoursphere.com/tips/can-social-networking-expose-your-children-to-gangs
Social Networks and Your Kids – The Risks from SchooGo:
http://www.schoogo.com/blog/it-safe-9-10-11-year-olds-be-social-networking-websites
Also called Net Banging - This refers to the internet recruiting process that gangs use to target kids. Gangs typically target high school and middle school kids but there are cases where kids as young as 8 have been recruited.
1.6 Million, that’s the number of employees, across the globe that support Walmart.
1 Million and growing, that’s the number of gang members in the United States.
Are your kids looking at gang propaganda online? Chances are you would not know, a recent study says that 62% of kids lie to their parents about what they do online.
As a parent, you protect your kids by teaching them safety rules, checking on their friends, and keeping tabs on their activities. Gangs know this to so they have a new recruiting tool to get around you and directly to your kids – the internet.
Link to WBTV segment: Gangs Targeting Your Kids Via The Internet
One example of how glorified gang life is can be seen on YouTube.com. Lil Slim’s “Getting $” music video, which glorifies gang activities, has over 30,000 views.
Think you know how Gangs target their new recruits?
Test your knowledge with this quick quiz:
1) Q: What are the colors worn by the MS-13 gang?
A: Blue and White
2) Q: Gang Identifiers Include which of the following:
a) Wearing a specific color or colors regularly
b) 5-Pointed Star
c) Star of David
d) Playboy bunny
e) None of the Above
f) All of the above
A: All of the above
3) True or False: If you see someone wearing Charlotte Hornets gear they might be a member of a gang.
True. Don’t jump to conclusions that everyone that wears Charlotte Hornets gear is a gang member but this logo is popular with the Spanish Cobras and the 4 Corner Hustlers.
4) True or False: If you see a cap that looks like a NY Yankee’s cap but the tail of the Y is off so it looks like VN instead of NY, that’s just a kid having fun.
Most likely False. This is what the LA gang called Van Nuys is doing to mark their members. You can see this NY Yankee-like symbol touted on Facebook and YouTube. You may seen this worn by a gang member or a wannabe.
5) True or False: Your kid would not go to gang music sites to download songs.
Could be True or False. You should check. Kids are downloading gang songs from places such as 818 Gangland Musik Page for free.
GANGS HAVE NEW RECRUITING TOOLS:
The Bait: Social networking via the internet is the new recruiting tool for MS-13 and other gangs and they ARE targeting your kids.
The Hook: Young people that are surfing online may come across pictures, music, or videos about gangs. Of course kids are curious so they click and see something that glorifies gang life…That’s when a gang member may strike up a chat with them online and try to lure them into their club.
GANG STATISTICS:
Think this is an overplayed issue? Here are some startling statistics from a recent survey:
70% of gang members say it is easier to make friends online
89% of kids say they are the major user of technology at their house
41% of kids say they do not share with their parents what they are doing on the internet
HOW TO PROTECT YOUR CHILD:
TALK: Talk with your child about the places they visit while online. Look at some of the gang propaganda together and talk about why it is false or glorified.
TEACH: Keep your home PC in a central location so you can keep an eye on what they search. Teach your kids that where they go online is just as important as the rules you have for them offline.
TELL: Be familiar with what your local gangs wear, such as certain colors, jewelry, or logos, to show they are a member. Tell your kids not to dress like gang wannabes so they will not be targeted while at school or play.
WARNING SIGNS:
APPEARANCE: Your kid’s clothing preferences change dramatically. Your kid suddenly insists on wearing a specific color or a logo. A new tattoo, permanent or henna. Unexplained injuries. Begins using gang slang.
SOCIAL: Starts withdrawing from school, family, and possibly even their friends. Talks about gang life in an idolized way.
INTERESTS: Gang music or gang insignias on their phones and music lists. Likes to watch gang related movies.
RESOURCES:
FBI Gang Threat Site: http://www.fbi.gov/page2/feb09/ngta_020609.html
Department of Justice – Community Services: www.cops.usdoj.gov
Violence Prevention Institute: http://www.violencepreventioninstitute.org/youngpeople.html
National Youth Gang Prevention Center: http://ojjdp.ncjrs.gov/pubs/gun_violence/sect08-f.html
NC Gang Awareness:
http://www.ncgangcops.org/NCGangAwareness.pdf
Parents Universal Resource Experts (PURE™):
http://www.helpyourteens.com/index.php
Parent Advocate Sue Scheff on Avoiding the Gangs:
http://www.suescheff.info/
Organization focused on consumer safety, security, and privacy:
http://ilookbothways.com/
Dr. Michele Borba, Child Expert Talks About Kids and Conflict:
http://www.micheleborba.com/blog/
Mary Kay Hoal, Internet Safety Expert, Offers Advice About Social Networks and Gang Exposure:
http://internet-safety.yoursphere.com/tips/can-social-networking-expose-your-children-to-gangs
Social Networks and Your Kids – The Risks from SchooGo:
http://www.schoogo.com/blog/it-safe-9-10-11-year-olds-be-social-networking-websites
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Holiday Shopping: How to Get the Best Bargains Without the Boobytraps
You want to fill everyone’s Christmas stocking with good cheer but be careful of cybercriminals. We can help you find the best bargains without the boobytraps!
Some of the best deals of the season are online this year.
47% of merchants said they will use social media such as Twitter and Facebook to advertise the best deals.
This year offers some fantastic ways to find where the best bargains are and you can shop at home in your pajamas, while stuck at the airport, or even on your lunch break all with the touch of your finger!
Some companies are creating online exclusive offers. One example is Sears. Sears gave out fan only deals and a drawing for a gift card exclusively to their Facebook fans this year.
Here are 4 tips to find the best deals without the boobytraps!
1. One card: Use a specific credit card for your online purchases. Set up alerts to be sent to your phone and email so you know every time your card is used.
2. Keep a record: Save a screen shot or print out all receipts and hold for at least 90 days, longer if there is a warranty.
3. Be A Secure Shopper with CIS: Computer, Internet, Secure
Computer: Know the computer – do not use a communal computer or one that is not up to date on antivirus protection
Internet: Check your internet access – know how you access the internet – only make a purchase if you know your connection is safe
Secure: Secure Sites only - Check the Webname – it should include HTTPS: the S stands for secure. The website should include an icon of a padlock
4. Instant Access to Deals: Sign up for email alerts from your favorite stores. If you use social media sites such as, Twitter or Facebook, there are a lot of great deals posted on those sites.
Finding the Best Bargains:
There are several wonderful sites that you can use to help you find the best online bargains without tripping on the cybercriminal booby traps.
We have highlighted several sites that you may want to check out this year:
Etsy.com
RetailMeNot.com
Dealio.com
Offers.com
Cheaptweet.com
Savings.com
Extrabux.com
PriceGrabber.com
Shop.org
Dealnews.com
Fatwallet.com
SlickDeals.net
Amazon.com
Walmart.com
Target.com
Social Media:
Facebook:
On Facebook, you will find many vendors with pages you can become a fan of. Some are offering EXCLUSIVE deals for their Facebook fans.
Some highlights include:
ToysRUs
Best Buy
Sears
Macy’s
JCPenney
Twitter offers some great tips about upcoming sales and special offers.
Some Twitter accounts you may want to follow include:
@ToysRUs -
@SearsDeals -
@AmazonDeals
@WalmartSpecials
@NeweggHotDeals
@DellOutlet
Some of the best deals of the season are online this year.
47% of merchants said they will use social media such as Twitter and Facebook to advertise the best deals.
This year offers some fantastic ways to find where the best bargains are and you can shop at home in your pajamas, while stuck at the airport, or even on your lunch break all with the touch of your finger!
Some companies are creating online exclusive offers. One example is Sears. Sears gave out fan only deals and a drawing for a gift card exclusively to their Facebook fans this year.
Here are 4 tips to find the best deals without the boobytraps!
1. One card: Use a specific credit card for your online purchases. Set up alerts to be sent to your phone and email so you know every time your card is used.
2. Keep a record: Save a screen shot or print out all receipts and hold for at least 90 days, longer if there is a warranty.
3. Be A Secure Shopper with CIS: Computer, Internet, Secure
Computer: Know the computer – do not use a communal computer or one that is not up to date on antivirus protection
Internet: Check your internet access – know how you access the internet – only make a purchase if you know your connection is safe
Secure: Secure Sites only - Check the Webname – it should include HTTPS: the S stands for secure. The website should include an icon of a padlock
4. Instant Access to Deals: Sign up for email alerts from your favorite stores. If you use social media sites such as, Twitter or Facebook, there are a lot of great deals posted on those sites.
Finding the Best Bargains:
There are several wonderful sites that you can use to help you find the best online bargains without tripping on the cybercriminal booby traps.
We have highlighted several sites that you may want to check out this year:
Etsy.com
RetailMeNot.com
Dealio.com
Offers.com
Cheaptweet.com
Savings.com
Extrabux.com
PriceGrabber.com
Shop.org
Dealnews.com
Fatwallet.com
SlickDeals.net
Amazon.com
Walmart.com
Target.com
Social Media:
Facebook:
On Facebook, you will find many vendors with pages you can become a fan of. Some are offering EXCLUSIVE deals for their Facebook fans.
Some highlights include:
ToysRUs
Best Buy
Sears
Macy’s
JCPenney
Twitter offers some great tips about upcoming sales and special offers.
Some Twitter accounts you may want to follow include:
@ToysRUs -
@SearsDeals -
@AmazonDeals
@WalmartSpecials
@NeweggHotDeals
@DellOutlet
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
4 Tips to avoid online scams / phishing - Don't take the B.A.I.T.
4 Tips to avoid online scams / phishing - Don't take the B.A.I.T.
B: Beware of popups or emails that request you click on a link.
A: Account alerts can be set up to help you monitor your accounts.
I: Internet addresses should include https:// if they are asking for personal and sensitive information.
T: Tone is usually a give away. If the tone says you must act quickly or something bad will happen it is usually a scam.
B: Beware of popups or emails that request you click on a link.
A: Account alerts can be set up to help you monitor your accounts.
I: Internet addresses should include https:// if they are asking for personal and sensitive information.
T: Tone is usually a give away. If the tone says you must act quickly or something bad will happen it is usually a scam.
If You Believe You Took the Bait:
If you believe you took the phishing bait, file a complaint with local law enforcement and visit FTC.gov to file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.
Also request to freeze your credit report and ask for a free credit report.
Spotting Phish Bait:
(1) Your children may accidentally click on pop ups while surfing the net. Teach them to notify you when there is a random pop up while they are online. You can also set your web browser to "Block Pop Ups" as a precaution.
(2) Government Agencies such as the IRS and the FBI have been recent targets in phishing scam emails. Both have said they will never ask for personal information via email.
(3) Banks and credit card companies are also popular phishing targets and will never ask for your personal information via email.
For more information on how to stay safe online, check us out on WBTV.com
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