Choosing Secure Passwords Online

If you're anything like me, you get freaked out every time you hear stories of online security failures. Whether it's people getting their e-mail or Facebook accounts hacked, I just can't help but get a little more paranoid, wondering if all of my passwords could be compromised just as easily.

For the most part, I try to keep my passwords fairly complex while still easy to remember. I also don't use the same password for every single site I access. While these are fairly basic online security procedures, I'm sure there is much more that I'm unaware of.

That's why it's a good thing that Mozilla put out a recent video titled How to Choose Strong Passwords. It's got a handy guide to helping you choose passwords that are easy to remember, extremely secure and also different for all the sites you visit. It's definitely worth checking out if you're unsure about how secure your online accounts are.

Feel free to share your own thoughts about Internet security in the comments!

How to Secure Your Wireless Network

Earlier this year when I explained how to set up a wireless network, I urged you to set up a password and consider additional security measures. After all, what's the point of ordering a smoking-fast broadband package if all the neighborhood kids are hijacking your signal and slowing everything to a crawl with their blasted Justin Bieber music videos?

With that in mind, I thought I'd get a little more in-depth on wireless security today and give you a list of basic precautions you can take along with some more advanced pro-tips that can help keep your Internet service Bieber-free (unless you're into that sort of thing, which is totally okay).

• Lock down your router – Your router and wireless network both have passwords. To change your network's settings, you need to log in to your router. To keep anyone else from changing your network settings, you need to protect your router. Check your instruction manual to learn how to log in to make changes. Usually, you simply enter a URL into your browser and enter the default user-name and password to gain access
  
  If for some reason you have lost your router instructions, check out this site and you should easily be able to find out what URL to type and what the default user-name and password for your router is. Once in, make sure you give your router a new user-name and password. Stay logged in, as we'll be making the rest of the changes from here, too.

Comcast Offers Norton Security Suite Free to High-Speed Internet Customers

Staring in mid-January, Comcast began offering Norton from Symantec to residential and business high-speed Internet subscribers for no additional cost. The company previously offered McAfee Security Suite.

Norton Security Suite includes PC security that protects against viruses, spyware, worms, Trojans, malicious bots and identity theft. It also includes a range of customizable parental controls. Comcast subscribers with Macs will receive Norton Internet Security for Mac.

According to Norton, a PC that does not have active and up-to-date security software can become infected within four minutes of connecting to the Internet. The Norton Security Suite Internet security features include:

• Virus scan – protects against viruses, bots, spyware, Trojan horses, worms and rootkits and includes Norton’s new reputation-based security technology
• Identity theft protection – helps block phishing Web sites, guards against keyloggers and stores and protects Web passwords
• Parental control tools for family safety – includes filters for age-appropriate Web site content, information about search terms kids are using, and information about their social networking accounts
• Two-way firewall protection – stops threats at point of entry using sophisticated behavioral security technology
• Windows protection – cleans and repairs Windows registry
• PC Tune-up – finds and fixes problems that slow your computer
• 24/7 one-click customer support – via e-mail, chat or phone support

The Norton Security Suite is valued at $160 for residential customers and the Norton Security Suite Business Edition is valued at up to $490 for business customers. The company says the suite is a key component to Comcast’s recently announced Constant Guard Security initiative, which involves a comprehensive approach to proactively assist customers with online security issues. Comcast and Norton will also be offering customers co-branded fee-based virus removal and PC Tune-up services later this year.

Does your high-speed Internet provider offer free security software? If not, see if Comcast if available in your area and switch today to get protected.

How to Set Up a Wireless Network

If you’ve just ordered a new high-speed Internet package, chances are you’re probably ready to start making the most of it. One of the coolest things you can do with your new service is to cut the cord and set up a wireless network for your home. This lets you use Internet service on laptops, desktops, and all sorts of other nifty devices like DVRs and game consoles, without any wires. How futuristic!

Many Internet providers will furnish a wireless router, either for free or with an additional charge. But, if you are looking to set up your wireless network on your own, check out these handy steps:

• Make sure your devices are ready – Setting up a new wireless network without making sure your stuff is wireless-ready is like buying an awesome new cereal without checking that you have milk at home. Avoid disappointment by checking your computer and device specs to make sure they are ready. Most laptops and many desktops from the last few years come equipped with wireless ability right out of the box, but it’s always best to check.


• Buy a wireless router – There are a million options on the shelves, and they seem to change daily. With that in mind, instead of giving you specific recommendations here, I’m referring you to Cnet’s excellent, constantly updated guide to the best wireless routers on the market. Check through the reviews to find the router that best meets your needs and budget. Then buy it.

Is Your Computer Infected With Rogue Security Software?

Symantec Corp. recently announced the rather frightening findings of its Report on Rogue Security Software and it doesn't look good for millions of computer-owning consumers. The study revealed that cybercriminals are employing increasingly persuasive online scare tactics to convince users to purchase rogue security software.

Rogue security software, or "scareware," is software that pretends to be legitimate security software. These rogue applications provide little or no value and may even install malicious code or reduce the overall security of the computer. The scam involves encouraging unsuspecting users to install rogue software with website ads that prey on users’ fears of security threats. These ads typically include false claims such as "If this ad is flashing, your computer may be at risk or infected," urging the user to follow a link to scan their computer or get software to remove the threat.

According to the study, 93 percent of the software installations for the top 50 rogue security software scams were intentionally downloaded by the user. As of June 2009, Symantec has detected more than 250 distinct rogue security software programs.

The initial monetary loss to consumers who download these rogue products ranges from $30 to $100. However, the costs associated to regain ones’ identity could be far greater. Not only can these rogue security programs cheat the user out of money, but the personal details and credit card information provided during the purchase can be used in additional fraud or sold on black market forums resulting in identify theft.

To make matters worse, some rogue security software actually installs malicious code that puts users at risk of attack from additional threats. As a result, installing these programs can lower the security posture of a computer while claiming to strengthen it. For example, rogue programs may instruct the user to lower or disable any existing security settings while registering the bogus software or prevent the user from accessing legitimate security Web sites after installation. This, in turn, leaves users exposed to the very threats the rogue software promised to protect against.

Symnatec offers these tips to protect against rogue security software:

• Avoid following links from emails, as these may be links to spoofed or malicious websites. Instead, manually type in the URL of a known, reputable website.
• Never view, open, or execute email attachments unless the attachment is expected and comes from a known and trusted source. Be suspicious of any emails that are not directly addressed to your email address.
• Be cautious of pop-up windows and banner advertisements that mimic legitimate displays. Suspicious error messages displayed inside the Web browser are often methods rogue security software scams use to lure users into downloading and installing their fake product

Online Shopping Safety Tips

Shopping online is the most convenient thing since sliced bread! There's no need to hassle with mall parking or crowds. Just simply click on what you want, enter in your credit card information and in a few days you'll get your items in the mail — so simple! Or is it?

Of course there are those who shy away from online shopping because of identity theft. Sure it's a problem but if you arm yourself with knowledge then you can avoid becoming a target.

Below are some safety tips to keep you safe while you're shopping online.

• Read reviews from other shoppers
• Look for the Better Business Bureau logo or call them to verify the company is legitimate
• Shop with reputable leading companies
• Look for the lock icon that lets you know the Web site is secure
• Update your browser often as it comes with security features
• Stay away from sites that ask you to enter in your social security number to make a purchase

The BBB's Advice on Giving and Getting Pre-Paid Bank Cards

There are only a precious few more shopping days until Christmas. If you are like me, it's tempting to skip the malls and the expensive postage by getting everyone on your list a gift card! While they seem like a safe and easy way to give money during the holidays, the Better Business Bureau recently had a few things to say about this popular holiday choice.

According to the BBB, billions of dollars will be spent on gift cards this holiday season and pre-paid bank cards—or stored-value cards—are expected to be very popular. These pre-paid bank cards are like gift cards, but can be used anywhere credit cards are accepted, allowing the recipient more flexibility in where the money can be spent. But the BBB warns that pre-paid bank cards aren’t without their downside.

"Cold hard cash is going to be on a lot of wish lists this year as families find it increasingly difficult to balance holiday spending with paying for essentials," said Steve Cox, BBB spokesperson. "Pre-paid bank cards can be a great way to give money, but givers and receivers need to pay special attention to the terms and conditions, which can include substantial fees and limitations."

Not only are pre-paid bank cards a popular holiday gift, they are also a way for people with limited access to credit cards to manage their money—including making it easier to purchase items online. The terms and conditions on these products do vary, so BBB recommends consumers pay special attention to the following details when giving, or receiving, a pre-paid bank card:

'Tis The Season to See Fees
BBB recently researched a bank card offer and discovered more than 27 different fees ranging from a little under a dollar to almost $20. Fees were attached to contacting customer service, loading more money onto the card, and inactivity. The card even had weekly base fees of $1.95—which ads up to more than $100 a year to use the card. BBB recommends paying close attention to all terms and conditions associated with pre-paid bank cards and is encouraging consumers to ensure they read the fine print and ask about and understand any "hidden" fees.

What Happens if the Card is Lost or Stolen
Pre-paid bank cards are often branded by major credit card companies, such as MasterCard or Visa. While credit card companies promise zero or limited liability to card holders if their credit card is stolen or lost, the same protections do not necessarily apply to stored-value cards. Again, BBB recommends paying close attention to the terms and conditions of the card, which should outline the consumer protections allotted to the holder. 

Just Like a Credit Card?
In some cases, such as renting a car or reserving a hotel room, a pre-paid bank card might not be accepted. Consumers might also have a hard time using pre-paid cards when paying a deposit for larger purchases.

Some card issuers, but not many, report to a credit bureau, which means that holding a card can potentially have a positive impact on a consumer’s credit score.  Because a consumer cannot overdraw on the card or risk not paying a bill on time, there’s no way for a consumer to damage their credit by using a pre-paid bank card either.

For more information on giving and using gift cards, and on managing credit and debit cards this holiday season, go to www.bbb.org.

Beware of Digital Transition Scams

As with any new product or service that comes out, there are scam artists waiting to take advantage of people concerned about the digital transition coming this February. We've been talking about what to expect and giving advice and information on this issue, including the TV converter box coupon program, for awhile now, so I hope that we've helped ease you through the transition. However, if you are getting your information from other sources, make sure to remain skeptical.

For example, the Better Business Bureau has been alerting consumers to beware of a misleading advertising campaign by an Ohio-based company called Universal TechTronics. Apparently, the company has been running ads across the U.S. promising free television channels, services and digital TV converter boxes, but are really a bait and switch tactic that prey on consumers’ lack of knowledge about digital TV conversion requirements.

The BBB investigation found that Universal TechTronics was offering "five-year warranties" for $59 that must be purchased with their "free" digital TV converter boxes. With shipping and handling fees rolled in, the total cost per box is nearly $100. However, these are most likely the same boxes consumers can buy in electronics retail stores across the country using the aforementioned $40 U.S. government coupons that make the total cost to consumers about $20 per box.

"The bottom line is that these ads confuse and mislead consumers," said Steve Cox, BBB spokesperson. "Unfortunately consumers who do respond may find that not only will they not receive free products and services as implied by the ads, but they will end up paying more than they would have by taking advantage of the really good deal being offered through the DTV coupon program."

The AARP is also warning it's members about DTV transition scams, advising them to watch out for phony rebates and grant money, bait and switch scams, and expensive help you really don't need.

If you aren't ready for the transition, check out the blog posts I linked above or go directly to the source for the most up-to-date information at DTV.gov!

Scamming on Facebook

We've written in the past about avoiding e-mail scams, but as social networking (i.e. Facebook, MySpace, etc.) expands...so do the scams. Recently, it was reported on CNET.com that one of the old classics, the Nigerian scam, has hit Facebook.

In such scams, the con artist tries to solicit money through a letter, either by hard, or more commonly now, soft copy. They tell a story of some sadness and heartache as to how they've come to need money, then request you, the target, to send it on.

So be wary of any requests you get from your social sites...even if it seems to be from your best bud. Give them a ring to make sure it is actually them stuck in Lagos needing the money before you wire it over.

Read more about the story in the Sydney Morning Herald or CNET.com.

Beware of the Big Bad Moving Broker

With the advent of the internet there have been more opportunities to take advantage of consumers. People use brokers for everything from finances to our energy needs, so why not use a broker for other events in our lives? Well, one of the newest scams being utilized is moving brokers.

According to the recent Census Bureau, 39.8 million people in the United States moved within the previous in 2006. This means that a huge portion of the population had the same needs. Knowing this, would-be criminals have developed a way to monetize the industry by using the internet to prey on people's desire to save time and money.

Traditionally, moving brokers help the consumer to shop the local competition to find the best rate for the customer's move. However, recently some moving brokers have been devising methods to take advantage of that customer. Some work directly with a moving company. The mover will provide a bid lower than industry standard, so the customer uses his company for the move. The furniture is loaded, but before arriving at the new location the mover requests additional money from the customer for the move and holds hostage all property until this is made. Customers find that they can no longer contact their broker, and are forced to pay for their own belongings.

Crooked brokers also utilize another scam to dupe consumers. They require a customer to submit a down payment to lock in a price. When thinking of the cost of a state-to-state move, the cost savings can be extraordinary, which is why a consumer is apt to buy into an extremely reasonable rate. Those moving interstate are also more likely to plan weeks or even months in advance, so by the time they contact the broker again, they are nowhere to be found—phones are disconnected and websites are no longer available. When dealing with an internet-based company that is individually run, there is no way of knowing their location and who to look for when problems arise.

Now here's the good news! There are many reputable moving companies and methods to get a good qualified moving lead from an internet-based company.

• A consumer should use a reputable lead source. Check for credibility. Are they a member of the BBB (Better Business Bureau)?
• Are you able to get the estimate/quote in writing?
• Is the company you chose licensed? This can be checked online with the Department of Transportation's Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
• Do not pay up front for a price guarantee. Most reputable companies will not require a payment until the day of the move.
• Shop around. Make sure to contact an aggregate that will get several estimates.
• Be honest. Moving companies are allowed to charge more than the estimated price if the consumer was not honest about what actually needed to be moved. By law they are not required to itemize the extra expense or weigh the additional items.

With a few simple, extra steps we can protect ourselves from moving scams.