Identity Theft - Awareness

Awareness Can Help Minimize Chances of Being Compromised Online.

No question about it, the Internet has made our lives more convenient. It has allowed greater access to a world of information, goods and services. Unfortunately, con artists have also benefited from the Internet, using it as a vehicle to defraud consumers. Bankrate.com reports that in 2007, cyber criminals will explore new territory.
They’ll launch attacks using consumer-collaborative sites such as MySpace and YouTube, instant messaging, image spam, send more target phishing scams, and launch networks of zombie computers.

This means greater pressure will be placed on consumers to guard against cyber criminals. In response to the rising cyber crime threat, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) launched an online tool designed to help consumers avoid becoming victims of Internet scams, OnGuard Online. On its web site, www.onguardonline.gov, consumers can take interactive quizzes designed to enlighten them about identity theft, phishing, spam and online-shopping scams. If the user selects a wrong answer, the program explains why that particular misconception about Internet security can lead to trouble. On this site, consumers can also find detailed guidance on how to monitor their credit histories, use effective passwords and recover from identity theft.

While there are no guarantees, awareness can at least minimize your chances of being compromised online. Test your knowledge at www.onguardonline.gov.

Reprinted with permission from Texas Credit Union League. LoneStar Leaguer, February 26, 2007.
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