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In the past 12 months, we’ve all become familiar with terms such as \u201chacker\u201d and \u201cdata breach\u201d; as local, state, and national media report on intrusions into data bases of large national retail organizations. With more than 100,000 known viruses and more appearing virtually every day, it\u2019s important for you to know how to protect yourself from \u201chackers\u201d.<\/p>\n
\u201cHacker\u201d is a term used by some to mean “a clever programmer” and by others, especially those in popular media, to mean “someone who tries to break into computer systems to gain access to another\u2019s personal information.\u201d According to Ponemon Institute, a data-collection research firm, about 432 million online accounts belonging to 110 million Americans were hacked in cyber attacks during the past year.<\/p>\n
As consumers grow weary of the seemingly nonstop parade of high-profile hacking of customer records, Sheriff Mike Scott encourages you to remain vigilant about protecting your online privacy by practicing these tips:<\/p>\n
\u2022Protect your technology<\/strong>. Use strong\/different passwords on your online accounts and electronic devices, (including your smartphone) and change these frequently. Don\u2019t forget to check for updates on security software just in case not all are automatic.<\/p>\n \u2022Be skeptical<\/strong>. Emails beginning with \u201cDear Customer\u201d are most often bogus so do NOT click on their links. Don\u2019t trust emails that ask you to confirm recent transactions, order confirmations, delivery tracking, etc. Also beware of \u201cwarnings\u201d from your bank asking you to confirm your account; instead look up the phone number yourself if you are concerned.<\/p>\n \u2022Be a smart shopper<\/strong>. When using your smartphone to shop, use retailers\u2019 dedicated apps, rather than your phone\u2019s browser. Never use a debit card to shop online, or conduct financial transactions on public Wi-Fi networks.<\/p>\n