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Spyware Solutions:
Spyware allows outsiders to secretly gather your personal information and aids in identity theft. Read the articles below to learn more about this widespread problem. And don't let spyware get you down — Contact us for the latest technology needs.
Don't Fall Prey to Posers —
Tips to Help Keep You Safe from Identity Theft
Intelligence Operatives: Scott
Flaskerud
Case File Subject: Identity Theft
File Under: Identity Theft, Credit Report, Fraud,
FTC, Spyware, Virus
Mission Briefing
Imagine that your computer is a home. Directly behind the front door is your computer's hard drive, and just down the hall is where your personal data lives. Whenever you save personal information on your PC, you want to know that everything is private and protected — and the level of your PC's Security determines the strength of the deadbolt for your computer's front door.
The keys to keeping your PC safe are in your hands. Here are some basic steps to help lock out the intruders and infections that could steal your computer files or passwords.
- First and foremost, virus and spyware protection software should be installed and updated regularly.
- Make sure your PC has the latest Windows XP® operating system updates. http://update.microsoft.com/
- Do not open files, click on hyperlinks or download programs sent to you by strangers. And don't accept their candy, either.
- Use a firewall, especially if you use a high-speed Internet connection.
- When submitting information online, look for the "lock" icon on your browser's status bar to help ensure that your information is secure during transmission.
- Try not to store financial information on your laptop unless absolutely necessary. If you do, use a strong password — something with a combination of upper and lower case letters and numeric characters.
INTELLIGENCE REPORT:
How Does Spyware Infect Your Computer?
Spyware is often a component of a software application that a civilian intentionally installs. This is especially true of free software downloaded from the internet. Spyware can also be part of a computer virus executed by an unsuspecting user. And, even though you may remove the virus or fix the problems it caused, the spyware remains on the computer, collecting data and reporting back to parties interested in stealing information.
Spy Fighting is a Team Effort
When viruses, spyware or other suspicious computer problems are too much for you to handle yourself, remain calm and call 1 800 GEEK SQUAD (433 5778) or go to your local Precinct found in all Best Buy stores for backup. Agents are standing by 24 hours a day and are authorized to use force against your PC's security threats.
Other Protection Measures
Here are some other proactive approaches for keeping your financial information safe.
- Check your credit report at least twice a year to make sure that no one has opened any accounts without your knowledge. By law, you can receive one free report per year from all three credit bureaus. Visit https://www.annualcreditreport.com for the details.
- Properly dispose of all your documents with personal information or account numbers. Credit card bills and receipts, legal documents, loan and credit card applications... give them all the shredder treatment.
- You actually don't have to sign the back of your credit cards - and you shouldn't. Simply put "CHECK I.D." on it and you'll be covered. Just remember to have your ID on you when you're shopping.
- The next time you order checks, have them made with just the initial of your first name. You'll still need your full last name on them, but this will help the cause.
- When you are writing checks to pay on your credit card bill, don't put the entire credit card number in the "Memo" area, just put the last four numbers. Your credit card company will have all the information they need.
- Never have your social security number printed on your checks and never… NEVER… keep you social security card in your wallet. The ramifications of your social security number falling into the wrong hands are bad enough - but on top of that, it's just an incredible hassle to get a new card.
- Photocopy the contents of your wallet. Do both sides of each license, credit card, etc. You will know what you had in your wallet and all of the account numbers and phone numbers to call and cancel. Keep the photocopy in a safe place (such as a safe, for instance).
Your Identity was Stolen — Now What?
Okay, so the worst case scenario has happened and your personal information has fallen into the wrong hands. Don't panic, but do act quickly:
- Call the fraud department of the 3 national credit bureaus to place a fraud alert on your name and Social Security number. Once you put an alert on your identity, you will receive a phone call if anyone tries to open a new account using your social security number. Equifax: 1-800-525-6285, Experian: 1-888-397-3742, Trans Union: 1-800-680-7289
- Call the credit card company immediately and report the fraudulent activity. (This is where the photocopy of your cards comes in handy)
- File a police report. You may need this for some creditors as proof of a crime.
- File a complaint with the FTC. Call 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338) or go to http://www.consumer.gov/idtheft/