This week I came across an article about identify theft which offers tips worth passing along. As the author Laura Sinberg observes, “Hackers have become sophisticated at using one bit of information as a wedge to pry out more.” (“Build a fortress around your finances,” by Laua Sinberg, More, June 2013, pg 42.)
If a hacker gains access to any sensitive material, he can create a false identity and use a phony email address to trick members of your social network into sharing their personal information as well. (Ibid. pg. 42.) To protect yourself and your friends here are some of Sinberg’s tips:
Use a password keeper: There is software that that allows you to save dozens of passwords under one master password. The master password is the one you use to access all your accounts. Sinberg suggests trying, 1Password, agilebits.com/onepassword. It’s a fee for service site.
Pay for Wi-Fi privacy. Yes you can get Wi-Fi free at a coffee shop, but everyone else can read your information. To be safe, buy you access.
Disable geotagging. This is the feature on your IPad or smartphone and digital camera. When you email a picture with the device on, you are e-mailing a lot more than a picture.
Another suggestion from Atlantic Wired, (The Easiest ways not to get hacked,” by Rebecca Greenfield, 5/28/13) is to create a password of 11 characters, preferably not a real word.
If any of this information helps, the blog has done its work. Stay safe.
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