There is a great deal of information out there on keeping your private data private when you go online to shop or to visit. Unfortunately all the good solid information in the world does not replace good solid common sense when it comes to shopping or sharing your information online.
The number of identity thefts is growing at an alarming rate, and sadly, this isn’t confined to online activity, although the presence of computers does tend to make it more easily accomplished.
The reality is that most information isn’t secured through phishing sites or virus material implanted in your computer. While that is one way to accomplish it, another way that seems to be working well for the crews who are gathering information is simply to ask.
Called social engineering, the user befriends someone and then gathers information about them, telling them they need it for some other purpose.
There are a few rules that can apply to you whether you are offline or online that may help to protect you against the phishing sites, as well as the social engineers of the world.
1. If you would not give your information out to someone on the bus, why would you do so to someone online that you’ve only just met? Don’t offer passwords, bank account information, or any other variety of private data unless you can prove they need it to accomplish a task for you.
2. When or if you receive an email with a link, always suppose that it is not genuine. For example, a great many phishing schemes are using emails that are purportedly trying to help you save your bank account or Paypal account. These offer you a link to click on and tell you that your Paypal or other account is in jeopardy. The logos look good and the information looks solid, but the link goes to something that is not Paypal in nature. NEVER click the link in one of these emails. If your Paypal account or bank account is in danger then you can easily find out with one phone call. Go directly to the Paypal account pages and get contact information for them. Make a phone call, or type the correct URL into your browser yourself. Don’t use the link in the email to get there.
3. If you don’t know an email address, no matter what the subject line may say, don’t click or open any kind of an attachment. Keystroke loggers are commonly sent out to email addresses that will give them all of your information. Attachments from people you don’t know may contain that kind of information. If you’re not sure of the email address and you have not asked for any type of a product or file from them, simply click delete. If it was important they will send it again and if not you may have dodged a bullet.
Common sense rules apply online, as well as offline. Keep your private information private. Unless someone can display a clear need for your password, to install software or other things, keep it to yourself.