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Tuesday, August 05, 2008
Our online blunders can lead to everything from a ruined computer to identity theft. In the September issue of Consumer Reports, seven of the most common online errors are highlighted:
• Assuming your security software is protecting you. Did you realize this software is fully effective only when activated? Be sure to update it frequently and renew subscriptions when they expire.
• Accessing an account through an e-mail link. Clicking on an embedded Web link can give cybercriminals account access and lead to identity theft. Access online accounts ONLY by typing the institution's Web address in a browser.
• Using a single password for all online accounts. Try using variations on a password — the best passwords use a combination of at least eight letters, numbers or punctuation symbols.
• Downloading free software. They often come at the price of added spyware. Download freeware from reputable sites such as SnapFiles.com and Download.com
• Thinking your Mac shields you from all risks. Since Apple's Safari browser has no phishing protection, users should try Firefox or Opera instead.
• Clicking on a pop-up ad that says your PC is insecure. Carefully click on the "close button" to get rid of the ad.
• Shopping the same way you do in stores. Use a separate credit card for Internet purchases and don't use a debit card. Or get a virtual account number from your credit-card company, which is good for only one purchase for a specific vendor.
The new issue of Consumer Reports also includes test results of security software and ratings on the latest laptop and desktop computers.
Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2440 or mmoss@DaytonDailyNews.com.
