How Much Does Cybercrime Cost Your Business?

Posted on June 15, 2011 by John

$1 billion? That’s how much experts estimate one multinational automaker racked up in lost sales and additional R&D costs after a disgruntled employee walked out with plans for a new car model stored on a USB drive. When the worker published the plans, sales for the current model nosedived as consumers decided to wait for the upcoming model, says a CNN report.

But it doesn’t end there. For instance, hackers recently stole consumers’ personal information from the PlayStation Network. Antivirus software developer McAfee and tech security firm SAIC estimate that cybercrime costs businesses worldwide $1 trillion. And while your business might not yet be a giant with the potential to lose millions, you can count on identity fraud criminals and hackers to cost you big, from losing the trust of customers and employees to losing a competitive edge.

How can you protect business data from identity fraud criminals and other cyber bad guys? Check out these 3 simple tips:

  1. Educate workers about good security practices, such as not sharing business usernames and passwords without express authorization. Make cyber-security policies part of corporate guidelines and detail penalties for violating the policies.
  2. Install firewall security, which prevents identity fraud criminals and hackers from infiltrating private network data. Make sure employees who work from other locations, such as home or the neighborhood café, also have firewalls to protect business information on their laptops.
  3. Keep antivirus software up to date. Business owners and managers have plenty to do, but ignoring cyber-security because you’re “too busy” is a costly mistake. Download the latest antivirus software and make sure it’s updated regularly. Most anti-virus programs can be set so they update automatically.

Business owners and decision makers can protect their business, employees, and customers from the threat of identity theft criminals and cyber fraudsters. It all starts with a comprehensive theft protection program. At ID LifeGuards, our team has the experience and tools you need to protect business data, including up-to-date anti-virus software. Learn more about how we’ll protect you.

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Protect Your Identity in a Disaster – 3 Steps to Take Now

Posted on June 8, 2011 by John

Many of us have been affected natural disasters or we know or love someone who has. As if putting the pieces of a life back together isn’t tough enough, we also need to worry about protecting our identity during those challenging times. Here are 3 steps to take right now to safeguard yourself from identity theft criminals and to protect the documents you’ll need to start rebuilding your life:

1.   Make copies of critical documents, such as birth certificates and Social Security cards. Always store the originals separately from copies. For example, keep originals in a safe deposit box and copies in a home safe. Avoid storing documents with friends or relatives because, unfortunately, sometimes even those we love are capable of committing identity fraud crimes.

2.   Protect your documents at home by storing them in a fireproof, portable safe you can take with you during an evacuation. If possible, keep the documents inside a waterproof bag within the safe. What documents should you protect?

  • Birth & death certificates
  • Marriage certificate
  • Social Security cards
  • Immigration & adoption records
  • Copies of driver’s licenses
  • Lease/mortgage paperwork
  • Recent photos of family members

3.   Backup computer files, too. Many of us rely on computers to store everything from check                registers to family photos. Backup files regularly on a portable hard drive that you can take with you in the event of an evacuation.

Another way to protect your identity before disaster strikes is by investing in an identity theft protection service. At ID LifeGuards, we offer affordable theft protection that you can count on in an emergency because we do the work for you. Start safeguarding your identity before a natural disaster hits—learn more today!

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The Simplest Identity Theft Protection Tips Ever

Posted on June 1, 2011 by John

The creep of summer’s heat can make us feel unmotivated to do much more than sit on a breezy porch with a cool drink. But ID theft criminals aren’t taking a summer break. Here are super-easy tips for protecting yourself from the risk of identity fraud:

  • Don’t share. Yes, this goes against everything you learned from mom and Mister Rogers, but the fact is that an identity theft fraudster will take advantage of info, like Social Security numbers, that people often freely provide. Remember, an identity fraud criminal isn’t necessarily a shady looking guy in a dark room. It could be the woman who calls to solicit for a charity donation or the man who organizes the local youth baseball league. Only share personal and credit card info when absolutely necessary.
  • Shred ‘em. Invest in a cross-cut shredder to destroy financial statements, medical statements, receipts, and other documents that contain the kind of info identity theft criminals love. Some shredders will also destroy credit cards as well.
  • You’ve got mail. Don’t expose yourself to potential ID theft by leaving mail in the mailbox for extended periods, where enterprising criminals can swipe it.
  • Leave it. There’s no reason to carry your Social Security card with you. None. Leave it in a safe place like a heavy-duty lock box or safety deposit box.
  • Prevent viruses. Download anti-virus software to prevent malicious programs from invading your computer and exposing your information to hackers.
  • Be unique. Don’t use info like your birth date or Social Security number as a computer password. Create a strong password using a combination of letters, numbers, and, if possible, symbols.
  • Invest in an identity theft protection service. ID LifeGuards provides complete ID theft protection, from offering anti-virus software to placing fraud alerts—and all for an affordable monthly fee that’s likely less than the price of treats for the family at the local ice cream shop.

See how simple it is to protect yourself from identity theft? You may now resume enjoying your summer!

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Tips to Protect the Seniors You Love From Identity Theft

Posted on May 25, 2011 by John

Identity theft can affect anyone, even children who are too young to have credit of their own. But identity fraud also has an effect on another sometimes vulnerable group: senior citizens. So whether you are Grandma’s fulltime caregiver or you have an elderly parent who still lives on their own, it’s critical to talk with them about ways to prevent identity theft:

  • Be aware of the risk of health care identity theft. Criminals have started using victims’ personal information (such as Social Security number or health plan number) to illegally obtain medical services. Remind the seniors in your life to never share personal info with others, especially by phone or email, unless it’s absolutely necessary in order to receive treatment.
  • Invest in a shredder. Buy a cross-cut shredder and use it for documents that contain personal information. (If you’re stumped about what gift to give an elderly family member who has everything, purchase a shredder for him or her!)
  • Be wary of people who ask for help. Unfortunately, there are many people, even family and friends, who will use a tale of woe to take advantage of a big-hearted senior. Remind your aging loved one of the identity theft dangers involved in sharing their personal or financial information with anyone—no matter how sad the story.
  • Invest in an identity theft protection plan. From monitoring credit to placing fraud alerts, a professional protection plan provides peace of mind for seniors and their families. This is another great gift idea for an older person who has it all.

Seniors sometimes underreport identity theft crimes because they fear family members will think they’re no longer able to handle their day-to-day life. So it’s also important to let the elderly know they can rely on you for help if they become the victim of identity fraud.

Protect a senior you love by giving the gift of professional theft protection. Learn more about ID LifeGuards’ trusted identity protection service today.

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5 Tips to Protect Your Network from Hackers

Posted on May 18, 2011 by John

Most of us probably never imagined that “digital security guard” would be part of our job descriptions. But savvy criminals are taking advantage of the increase in digital information collected and maintained by businesses, from employees’ Social Security numbers to customers’ home addresses.  So how can you protect that information from identity fraud criminals?

  1. Physical security: The data might be virtual, but it still requires old-school protection. You might not need a team of trained guard dogs, but you can prevent identity theft data loss by adding locks to the rooms where servers are kept or installing an office alarm or security system.
  2. Password protection: Always, always, always password-protect sensitive files. If staff members access sensitive business info over public Wi-Fi have them use encrypted passwords. Another way to protect your network from fraudsters and ID theft is to ask employees to change passwords on a monthly or bimonthly basis.
  3. Update employee accounts: Always suspend network access and privileges immediately when an employee has quit or been laid off/fired. You don’t want to expose sensitive network information to a disgruntled ex-staffer.
  4. Update anti-virus software: This is one of the most important steps in protecting your network’s security. Review and update anti-virus and anti-malware software regularly to protect against hackers and identity theft criminals.
  5. Train employees: Educate workers about the importance of maintaining network safety. Share regular reminders about the risks of opening unsolicited emails and links and the risks of using unsecured Wi-Fi to access sensitive business information. 

 Network data breaches are costly, time-consuming, and they might even generate a flurry of bad PR for the business. Contact the identity theft protection team at ID LifeGuards to learn more about our free and low-cost tools for protecting your network, your employees, and your customers.

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Identity Thieves Use Bin Laden Story to Snag Victims

Posted on May 11, 2011 by John

Did you do a web search or visit a social network for info about the death of Osama Bin Laden? You’re not alone. Unfortunately, identity theft criminals are taking advantage of the public’s interest in the event.

Check out these examples of how identity fraud criminals are taking advantage of the situation:

  • A death video scam on Facebook includes a link to what is described as banned footage of the terrorist’s death. If you click on it, you’re taken to another page that says you must share the link with friends before viewing the video. Once you’ve shared the link, you’re asked to complete another survey and “verify your account.”
  • Identity theft fraudsters are sending emails that report to contain links to Bin Laden death photos and videos. These bait emails may contain software applications that infect your computer, monitoring for online banking transactions.

On May 3, the FBI issued a warning advising computer users to be wary of opening emails that claim to show death photos or video. This isn’t the first time identity theft scammers have used the terrorist’s name to snag consumers; the “Bin Laden is dead” hook has been used since the mid 2000s. The FBI says consumers can protect their identity by:

  • Avoiding unsolicited emails
  • Reporting suspicious-looking emails
  • Not downloading new software to view a video because it may contain viruses
  • Increasing security settings on social network accounts

The Internet makes it easy to find and share major news events, but that desire for the latest info can also expose you to identity theft. Protect yourself and your family with an affordable and effort-free theft protection plan from ID LifeGuards. Learn more today.

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PlayStation Network Users Exposed to ID Theft Risk

Posted on May 4, 2011 by John

Hackers downed the PlayStation Network and Qriocity websites, home to about 77 million user accounts. Site users play online games as well as download music and movies to their homes.  While the cybercrime has been an inconvenience to the sites’ members, it also may have increased the players’ risk of identity theft.

Maker Sony admitted that hackers stole the personal information of gamers who use the networks. An investigation by Sony revealed the following consumer info may have been stolen:

  • Name and address
  • Email address
  • PlayStation Network/Qriocity password and login

Sony also said it was possible that profile data, including purchasing history and network security answers, may have been stolen. The company maintains there is no evidence that thieves have stolen credit card information, but they advise it is a possibility.

If you are a PlayStation Network user or know someone who is, these steps will help you identify potential fraud:

  • Do not open emails or attachments from people you don’t know—they may contain malicious viruses or links to malicious websites.
  • Check your credit report to ensure an identity thief has not opened new accounts in your name.
  • Review credit card statements carefully for suspicious purchases.
  • Invest in an identity theft protection plan. At ID LifeGuards, we provide all the tools you need to guard against ID theft. From free anti-virus software to affordable and comprehensive theft protection plans, our company acts as a first line of defense against expensive and inconvenient identity fraud.

Online entertainment should be just that: entertainment. Don’t let the risk of identity theft spoil your fun. Start protecting your identity today.

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Tips for Avoiding “Help Wanted” Identity Theft Scams

Posted on April 27, 2011 by John

If you or someone you know is looking for a job, there’s an identity theft risk you need to know about: the phony “help wanted” ad. Yes, identity theft criminals are taking advantage of the economy to steal personal information from job seekers. In fact, the rate of false “help wanted” ads has quadrupled in recent years.

How to Spot “Help Wanted” Scams

  • Credit fraud scammers may ask job seekers to share credit card numbers and pay a fee to get more information about the job.
  • Identity fraud scams sometimes use phony recruiters who claim to be from an overseas country. These “recruiters” ask the applicant to fax a copy of their passport or driver’s license information.
  • “Help wanted” phishing scams may send an applicant to another website infects that person’s computer with malware, a program that could give an identity thief access to info the applicant stores or transmits (credit card numbers, bank account information, etc.).
  • Identity fraud rings post “help wanted” ads on sites like Craigslist, offering work-from-home opportunities at a salary that probably seems too good to be true.

4 Tips to Avoid Becoming the Victim of a “Help Wanted” Scam

  1. Don’t click on any links included in a job-related email.
  2. Never share sensitive info, like bank account or credit card numbers, Social Security number, or driver’s license number.
  3. Update your computer’s anti-virus and anti-malware software—now!
  4. Monitor your credit report to look for suspicious activity.

If you’re looking for a job, you don’t need the hassle of identity fraud to complicate your life. Start protecting yourself today with a theft protection plan. Learn more about ID LifeGuards affordable identity theft protection program and reliable anti-virus/anti-malware software.

For more information about how legitimate employers use your credit history during the application process, check out How to Get Hired – Review Your Credit for ID Fraud.

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Social Networks & ID Theft- What You Need to Know

Posted on April 20, 2011 by John

Do you post your birthday on your Facebook profile? Your email address? If you have then you may be exposing yourself to the risk of identity theft. But you’re not alone. An ID Analytics/Harris Interactive survey revealed:

  • 13 million Americans 18 years and older will accept a social media connection request from a member of the opposite sex even if they don’t know that person.
  • More than 24 million U.S. social network users keep their online profiles “mostly public.”
  • 39% of participants said it was important to have as many social network business connections as possible; 19% said it was important to have as many social network personal connections as possible.

 Here are 4 quick and easy strategies to thwart identity theft if you use Facebook and other social sites:

 Learn about the privacy settings for the social networks you frequent. For example, one setting will let everyone in the entire Facebook world see your profile information; another will only allow your Friends to see it.

  1. Ask yourself if it’s worth it to Friend a person you’ve never met. Social network connections with strangers will boost your online social circle, but they may also expose you to identity fraud criminals.
  2. Think twice before posting the identifying info a fraudster could use to steal your identity, especially if you’ve connected with someone you don’t know. Avoid sharing stats such as your date of birth, the town where you live, or your email address.
  3. Check your credit report regularly to pinpoint discrepancies that indicate identity fraud.

 Remember to share these tips with the teen social network users in your life as well. It’s never too early to start teaching them about the dangers of identity theft.

 You can stay connected to friends, family, and colleagues and still safeguard your identity. For more information about an easy and affordable theft protection plan that will stop ID theft before it starts, visit ID LifeGuards.

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Did Email Co.’s Breach Expose You to Potential ID Theft?

Posted on April 13, 2011 by John

We all love a great deal. That’s why so many of us sign up for email deals and alerts from our favorite brands. Unfortunately, sharing email addresses with any company can potentially boost the risk of becoming an identity theft victim. Recently, Epsilon, a marketing firm that sends emails on behalf of many big brands, revealed that hackers may have breached customer information. In a statement, Epsilon said, “The information that was obtained was limited to email addresses and/or customer names only.”

Here’s a sample of Epsilon clients whose customers may have had their information compromised:

  • Best Buy
  • Capital One
  • Citi
  • Kroger
  • Marriott Rewards
  • New York & Company
  • Target
  • US Bank
  • Verizon

For a complete list of brands affected by the breach, visit Security Week.

What does it mean if you receive emails from these brands?

Experts say that in the best case scenario affected consumers may be subject to an increase in spam. However, other potential consequences may be more damaging to your identity and your credit score. The data thieves could attempt identity theft by sending consumers emails pretending to be from one of these brands. These emails may contain links to malicious web sites that try to get consumers to share info about credit card numbers, bank accounts, or even social media accounts.

How can you protect yourself from identity theft?

Don’t click on any links or open attachments from any company, even if you’re on their email list. Go directly to the corporate site to get the information you’re looking for.

Be sure to update your anti-virus software and invest in an identity theft protection plan. At ID LifeGuards, we provide the tools you need to monitor your credit and stop identity fraud before it strikes. Not only do you get comprehensive identity protection for your family—you get it a price that’s affordable. Learn more today.

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