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Peer-to-Peer Software and File Sharing
While you may just be using that Peer-to-Peer software (P2P) to share MP3 files with other computer users, cyber-criminals are searching to find access to your personal computer files through that software as well. Once P2P is downloaded, it allows for file sharing between users. These files can include music, movies, and software. Napster is an example of P2P software as well as Limewire, Morpheus, Gnutella, Gnutella2, and BitTorrent.
While the P2P software should only give access to designated files, it can give access to all the files on your computer. Cyber-criminals are searching online for this open access to your computer files, which can include bank records, health records, tax files, passwords, and any other personal information you store on your computer. The searches are done using terms that might be found in those files, such as "credit card", "password", and even "stop payment".
Once your file with personal information is found through P2P access, that cyber-criminal has found a new identity to steal and use. If you have P2P software installed, review the installation and configuration of the software to make sure you know what files are being shared through the software. Another option is to have separate computers; one for your personal information and another solely for P2P software and file sharing. If that is not possible, you can also look into encryption programs for your personal information. If you aren't sure if you have P2P software downloaded, review your computer's programs and do any online searches of unfamiliar program titles. It is important to make sure any necessary P2P software is working properly to protect you from identity theft attempts.
Shopping Online? Take Steps to Protect Yourself
Shopping online is a pleasure. No traffic, no crowds, no searching for a parking spot. In 2009, Internet commerce totaled $134.9 billion and continues to grow. At the same time, scams are growing too. More than $246 million in losses were reported by Americans in 2009 and has steadily increased since then.
There's no getting around it; you need to protect yourself. While shopping on legitimate, well-known sites belonging to your favorite department store or specialty shop is probably not going to be a problem, lesser-known sites that come up when you're looking for a bargain and googling something specific could be places for concern. The same can be said for auction sites such as eBay and uBid.
Here's what you can do to see to it that all your online shopping is as secure as a trip to the mall:
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Call the retailer first. If you're not sure about the website's legitimacy, pick up the phone and try the number that is listed. Anyone can set up a website today, and it doesn't take much to look like a Fortune 500 company. Before entering your credit card number, see if you can talk to a live person. |
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Google the retailer. Did anyone post a less-than-positive review about the site you're about to order from? |
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Look for a 'Buy Safe' seal. Buy Safe is a company that certifies online sellers as being reliable. |
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In today's online world, you don't want to risk entering your credit card information over an Internet connection unless that site in encrypted. Encrypted websites have a URL that begins with the letters 'https' and not just 'http'. Look also for an SSL certificate or a pop-up window telling you you're entering a secure site. If it's not secure, don't shop at the site. |
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Use your credit card, which offers more protection than a check. Other options for online payments are PayPal or Escrow.com. |
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Don't input any more information than what is necessary. There's no reason why a company youre ordering a sweatshirt from needs your date of birth, social security number or income level. Anyone asking for that type of information is either selling it to others for marketing purposes or is engaged in identity theft. |
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Don't respond to unsolicited emails by clicking on links that are embedded in the email. Instead, find the site yourself through a search engine or typing it manually if you know it. |
Shopping online may be convenient, but being safely at home doesn't ensure that you're safe. Exercise caution while you shop online, just as you would carefully guard your cash and credit cards when shopping at a busy mall during the holidays.
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