http://www.whyamirich.com/ Articles at Free Website Content from Whyamirich.com en-us http://www.whyamirich.com/computers/pc-security/pounding-identity-crooks-by-utilizing-a-reverse-cell-phone-information-bank.html http://www.whyamirich.com/computers/pc-security/pounding-identity-crooks-by-utilizing-a-reverse-cell-phone-information-bank.html Sat, 14 Nov 2009 02:28:30 -0700
Before you can start protecting yourself, you must first find out if you are not already a victim of this vicious misconduct. Your best bet would be to acquire a free of charge duplicate of your credit report in order to conclude if somebody is using your credit profile.

In the unlucky event that you credit profile has already been expose to identity crooks, you should call your community police without delay to file a report. This situation is not one that is easily resolved. It can in reality take years. That is the basis behind why so many companies encourage preventative measures.

There is not a scarcity of companies that recommend identity security services. You can utilize your credit card company, the credit bureaus or even a exclusive company similar to Life Lock.

You can also assist to prevent identity stealing by subscribing to a annual reverse telephone lookup database. The reason being is that so many scammers have gotten inspired enough to even call their victims pretending to be credit card companies.

With the reverse mobile phone lookup service, you can run anyone's cellular phone phone number and find out valuable info on who's calling your mobile phone. This works for mobile phone numbers, home phone numbers and unlisted numbers. This is a good tool to have for getting to the bottom of mock business calls.

To make sure you always have the number of anyone who calls your telephone, you can turn the element on your cellular phone that discards calls from unidentified callers. This feature gives you the aptitude to know the phone number of every person who calls.

You can by no means have too much safety when it comes to your delicate identity. The more time you spend on securing yourself, the fewer aggravation your will endure in the future. ]]> http://www.whyamirich.com/computers/pc-security/carbonite-online-backup-march-news-and-information.html http://www.whyamirich.com/computers/pc-security/carbonite-online-backup-march-news-and-information.html Tue, 07 Apr 2009 08:16:00 -0600 Carbonite Online Backup clientele will be able to access their online backup from any computer connected to the internet using our new remote file access feature. This feature adds an added level of convenience by allowing you to securely get back single files from the Carbonite website. This feature has a launch date March 16th, 2009.

In the past year the company has improved the value of the Carbonite Online Backup product, by adding several new features including a searchable restore drive. Therefore, with the addition of remote file access, they will be increasing the price of the service. (Prices cant stay the same forever, I wish they could though)

A synopsis of the new pricing schedule is offered below:

- 1 year: $54.95

- 2 year: $99.95

- 3 year: $129.95

Even though they had to raise the prices, it is still quite affordable for what they provide. What was the price increase? $5/year.

Carbonite for Mac is the backup solution for Mac users. Once again the service provides unlimited backup space for the same prices above. Carbonite for Mac like Carbonite for Windows - you just set it and forget it. The Carbonite application runs quietly and unobtrusively in the background, automatically backing up your important emails, documents, photos and other files.

Carbonite for Mac officially launched on March 16th. That concludes the new developments for March. Following is some answers to frequently asked question about the carbonite online backup.

Carbonite online backup uses a mixture of encryption techniques, similar to those used by financial institutions such as banks, to protect your data. Files are encrypted twice before they depart from your computer and stay encrypted on their servers, making it virtually unattainable for anyone to access your files without your secret password. Users are also given the choice to administer their own encryption key.

Carbonite backs up everything in your Documents and Settings folder (called Users in Windows Vista), including documents, photos, email and data files from applications, such as TurboTax, Quickbooks, etc. Once a subscription to Carbonites service is secured, music is also added to the list. The default backup does not include programs, system files, temporary files, videos, or individual files greater than 4GB. You can, however, manually add any of these to your Carbonite Online Backup. ]]> http://www.whyamirich.com/computers/pc-security/carbonite-online-backup--the-march-scoop.html http://www.whyamirich.com/computers/pc-security/carbonite-online-backup--the-march-scoop.html Mon, 06 Apr 2009 11:31:33 -0600 Carbonite Online Backup consumers will have the ability to get to their online file backup from wherever they can gain access to a computer connected to the Internet using the new remote file access facility. This software instrument gives an additional point of expediency by permitting you to access your files in safety and securely recover single files from the Carbonite environment via the Web. This capacity is scheduled to be available for use as of March 16th, 2009. This article talks about the price increase, new features and the Carbonite for Mac offering.

In the past year the company has improved the value of the Carbonite Online Backup product, by adding several new features including a searchable restore drive. Therefore, with the addition of remote file access, they will be increasing the price of the service. (Prices cant stay the same forever, I wish they could though)

I have supplied a summary of the new prices below:

- 1 year: $54.95

- 2 year: $99.95

- 3 year: $129.95

Regardless of the new higher prices, the service gives an reasonably priced offering. Glancing at the figures, the online backup solution thankfully went up only $5 a year.

Carbonite for Mac is the backup solution for Mac users. Once again the service provides unlimited backup space for the same prices above. Carbonite for Mac like Carbonite for Windows - you just set it and forget it. The Carbonite application runs quietly and unobtrusively in the background, automatically backing up your important emails, documents, photos and other files.

Carbonite for Mac officially launched on March 16th. That concludes the new developments for March. Following is some answers to frequently asked question about the carbonite online backup.

Carbonite online backup uses a blend of encryption methods, with similarity to those utilized by financial institutions - for instance banks, to guard their data. Prior to your data leaving your PC, files are encrypted two times and only then do they leave your computer. Once your files reach the server, they continue in the encrypted state on their servers, producing a virtually impossible environment by which anyone can gain access to your files without your private password. The option is open for a user to provide a personal encryption key.

Carbonite archives all of the files in your Documents and Settings folder (called Users in Windows Vista), including documents, pictures, email and other information files from applications, such as tax apps, accounting programs, etc. When you purchase subscription, music is also added to the list of archive allowable files. Programs, system files, temporary files, videos, or individual files greater than four gigabytes are not included in the default backup. However, you can manually add any of these files to your Carbonite Online Backup when you desire. ]]> http://www.whyamirich.com/computers/pc-security/the-major-things-you-should-know-on-free-internet-security-2.html http://www.whyamirich.com/computers/pc-security/the-major-things-you-should-know-on-free-internet-security-2.html Sat, 22 Nov 2008 02:47:08 -0700
While it is true that the internet can provide you with a lot of benefits, it is also a fact that the internet is also abused by certain people looking for a way to destroy your computer or steal from you by using your financial and personal information. This is why it is important for you to download Internet security software to enable you to put a lock in your computer and prevent different malicious programs and people from entering and gaining access to your computer.

Free Internet security programs can be useful. It can serve as a temporary security program for your computer while you look for a different Internet security program to install in your computer.

So, if you are still looking for a program that offers complete protection from malicious software programs but you want to surf the Internet, this doesn't necessarily mean that you have to surf the Internet naked. Try and install free versions of Internet security programs to at least give you some protection.

Free internet security software's

You secure everything in your life. You save money for your child's education, you save money to buy a nice home for your family, and you also save money for emergency situations. This is why you work hard in order to get a good job with a sufficient salary to live a comfortable life.

The scary thing about this malicious software in your computer is that you'll never really know that it's there or how it got in your computer. These cyber criminals design these programs to be invisible as much as possible. If you don't know what to look for, chances are, you'll never really figure out about the malicious software lurking inside your computer. So, you now ask how you will be able to protect yourself from getting victimized by the number of malicious software's circulating in the internet today, and how to prevent it from entering your computer. First of all, the best way to protect yourself from being a victim is by simply stop using the internet or be careful on answering emails or on visiting websites.

So, if you are looking for a temporary way to protect yourself from malicious software, it would be a very good idea to consider free versions of internet security software. This will not only give you protection while you look for a more permanent solution, but it will be a great way to try out different kinds of internet security software and help you determine which software is the best. ]]> http://www.whyamirich.com/computers/pc-security/mobile-security-for-a-mobile-age.html http://www.whyamirich.com/computers/pc-security/mobile-security-for-a-mobile-age.html Wed, 05 Nov 2008 23:15:27 -0700
When wireless technology was first introduced, it was relatively safe as it had not yet been corrupted by hackers and thieves. Now that it's gotten more widespread, the current encryption methods and wireless protocols are vulnerable to attack. Combined with carelessness on the part of users and administrators, that can lead to big problems. Cracking wireless networks is getting a lot easier to do and to access - there are tools for both Linux and Windows operating systems available for free online.

Unauthorized access to wireless networks can be as simple as accidental as when someone turns on a computer and it automatically latches onto someone else's wireless access point, or as unpleasant as identity spoofing and malicious association. Even accidental association can be a problem, since there could be a link to another group, and information could be exposed. That makes paying attention to your computer's wireless activities very important.

Using software to make their own machines appear to be legitimate points of access, hackers can steal passwords, plant trojans, or launch network attacks. Other threats include non-traditional networks, like those creating by personal Bluetooth devices, ad-hoc networks (created between wireless computers without an access point), identity theft/MAC spoofing (when crackers listen in on network traffic and imitate the MAC address of computers with network privileges), man in the middle attacks, network injection and denial of service (DoS) attacks.

Since crime never sleeps, it's essential white-hat IT programmers keep one step ahead of them. Individuals using personal computers with wireless access should also take care to protect their information. All wireless LAN devices should be secured, and anyone using a network needs to know some basic wireless security precautions. Monitoring for breaches and weaknesses is also important. Choosing an appropriate security protocol can also be important - common ones include WEP, WPA, and WPA2, but others, including TKIP, EAP, LEAP, and PEAP are also used. Use of smart cards and USB tokens also offers an extremely high form of security, creating a powerful new encryption code on a regular basis. This is an extremely secure way to conduct wireless transmissions. ]]> http://www.whyamirich.com/computers/pc-security/best-free-antivirus-software.html http://www.whyamirich.com/computers/pc-security/best-free-antivirus-software.html Fri, 06 Jun 2008 07:39:39 -0600
There are many companies offering internet security programs for free, some are good, some are not so good, and some you should stay well clear of.

AVG is one of the most reputable and better known internet security providers online. In my humble opinion they offer one of the best security suites out there, and it's completely free. Version 8 provides a multi faceted approach to online security with your web browser even alerting you to dodgy websites!

The web surfing protection is very useful as it can alert you to websites that it deems could be a security threat. This is accomplished by showing different graphics merged into your web browsers search window. Specific graphics or icons informs you if caution is required or that site is ok to visit.

Problem is many sites are offering what is termed, "rogue software." Basically what this means is that if for instance you were trying to remove some spyware on your laptop and downloaded one of these so called "spyware removers, then installed it on your PC, some of them may actually install malware onto your system instead of removing it.

The benefit of the link scanner incorporated into AVGs free anti-virus software is that it should warn you of nuisance sites that make this kind of software freely available. Forewarned is forearmed seems to apply here.

McAfee, one of the better known providers of internet security packages made this kind of technology widely popular. Ok so its obvious that AVG is at the top of my list for free antivius software but they are not the only kids on the block.

Companies like Avira and Avast have also built formidable reputations in providing free and paid online security suite solutions, although I have not had the time to test them as thoroughly as I would like.

So the solution to the question, "where can I find free antivirus software." Do a quick search on Google to find one that suits you and you know to be reputable and install on it your PC. Even quicker is to take my advice and head straight over to the AVG site download their latest version and your good to go. ]]> http://www.whyamirich.com/computers/pc-security/are-you-a-victim-of-identity-theft.html http://www.whyamirich.com/computers/pc-security/are-you-a-victim-of-identity-theft.html Mon, 25 Feb 2008 05:45:32 -0700
One of the most common way criminals use another person's identity is to apply for new credit cards or loans under a false name.

If you receive letters or phone calls from creditors stating that you have been approved or denied a credit card or loan you never applied for, you should contact the creditor right away and get to the bottom of the situation.

This is one of the first signs that something is wrong and can save you a lot of problems down the road if you investigate soon enough.

If you suddenly stop receiving bills or credit card statements, this is another indicator that you may be the victim of identity theft. Often a criminal assuming another person's identity will change the address on that person's bills so they are unaware that someone else is using their credit cards until it is too late.

Make sure you know when you are supposed to receive your bills each month and if they don't come on time call your credit card company and find out why it's late. Keeping an eye on your bills is a good way to thwart identity theft before it gets detrimental to you r credit.

A pretty obvious indicator that you are the victim of identity theft is seeing charges on your credit card bills that are not from you. Contact your credit card company and report the unauthorized use of your card.

While this is a very common indicator of identity theft it often goes overlooked if a person doesn't pay close attention to their bill so always review it as soon as it arrives. Paying close attention to your finances is the best way to stop identity theft before it gets out of hand. ]]> http://www.whyamirich.com/computers/pc-security/7-ways-to-protect-yourself-from-having-your-identity-ripped-off.html http://www.whyamirich.com/computers/pc-security/7-ways-to-protect-yourself-from-having-your-identity-ripped-off.html Thu, 21 Feb 2008 06:43:59 -0700
Empty your mail box quickly. Don't give identity thieves the opportunity to steal personal documents form your mail box, empty it every day as soon as possible. You can also get a PO Box or locking mail box for added security. You should also never mail bills or letters containing personal checks from home as they can be stolen too.

Keep your social security number safe. Don't carry your social security card around with you or any other card that has your number on it. Don't use your number on checks or bills that can be stolen.

Keeping your card in a secure place like a lock box is important as well; many times information like that is stolen form your home and later used for identity theft by burglars.

Don't leave receipts lying around. Never leave receipts behind at the bank, ATM or store. If you used a card to pay for something take the receipt with you as it contains information that can potentially be used for identity theft.

Never let your credit card out of your site. It is becoming increasingly common for employees of stores and restaurants to make copies of cards while they are away form their owners. If you can't keep track of your card pay with cash or check, or at restaurants pay the bill yourself instead of giving your car an employee.

Don't give personal information out to callers. Even if a call from your bank of financial institution seems legitimate, don't give them information. Find out the reason for the call and what company they represent and then call them back on a number you know is legitimate to give them information.

Opt out of junk mail. Respond to junk mail offers by asking to be removed form their list. This will save you the potential problem of having credit card offers stolen form your mail as well as save you form unwanted junk mail. ]]> http://www.whyamirich.com/computers/pc-security/is-your-child-a-target-for-identity-theft.html http://www.whyamirich.com/computers/pc-security/is-your-child-a-target-for-identity-theft.html Wed, 30 Jan 2008 02:32:31 -0700
How Child Identity Theft Happens

Children can get issued a social security number at a young age - often because their parents have a need for it. And while the government has been making laws to protect adults from identity theft, the social security number is unfortunately still one of the most common forms of identification used for children.

Since most parents rarely, if ever, think of checking their child's credit report, it's easy to miss problems that crop up due to identity fraud. And to make the problem worse, the websites that are set up to provide a free annual credit report won't allow you to check your children's information. To do so, you need to send a written letter in the mail.

Results Of Child Identity Theft

Often the child does not realize that they have been a victim of identity theft until many years after the fact. This poses a couple of problems for the new adult in regards to clearing their credit history. Thieves who commit identity theft against children open new accounts and take out loans in the name of the child. Statistics show that it is often much more difficult to clear up accounts that were opened new as compared to existing accounts with fraudulent charges made on them. Secondly, the accounts are frequently many years old and deep into collections by the time the individual becomes aware of the child identity theft. Even if the accounts are paid off after going to collections, the black mark remains from the original lender for many years.

Protecting Your Child From Identity Fraud

The best protection for your children from identity theft is to check their credit report every year. It's also wise to stop giving out your child's social security number except when you absolutely have to. The IRS and sometimes your doctor have the right to know it, but nobody else has to. And never carry your kids' social security cards with you. Memorize the number and lock the cards away at home or in a safety depost box. ]]> http://www.whyamirich.com/computers/pc-security/what-can-you-do-to-help-stop-the-spread-of-viruses.html http://www.whyamirich.com/computers/pc-security/what-can-you-do-to-help-stop-the-spread-of-viruses.html Tue, 04 Dec 2007 18:52:00 -0700
Computer viruses attack servers - web, file, ftp and e-mail, along with routers and other network gear - along with individual PC's.

Servers are usually substantially the same as PC's only with more memory, disk space and processors. Web servers house web pages and programs for Internet users, e-mail servers store, send and receive e-mail, and file and ftp servers make possible storage and distribution of all manner of files for other systems. Routers are simply specialized computers, with proprietary operating systems, for routing network traffic.

Most operate much like an individual's system and are subject to the same kinds of attacks. They can therefore be protected by many of the same means - regular use of reliable antivirus software and being firewall guarded to shut down vulnerable entry points on the Internet.

What else can be done?

These servers can be servicing thousands of users at the same time in some cases so they're a popular target for the virus writers. As a user on these systems, you can help keep them virus-free by making sure your own computer is. And their system administrators can help by limiting what kinds of programs get installed on them.

By keeping your computer protected by antivirus, firewall and other internet security software you help to minimize the target area for the attacks to hit. It can also help to keep your browser and operating system updated with the latest patches, and possibly even run an alternative browser such as Firefox instead of Internet Explorer.

You should also avoid booting from CD's, DVD's or USB memory sticks that haven't been scanned for viruses. If one of the files that was saved on the disk was infected, booting with the disk can cause the virus to spread even faster.

If you use FTP, you should look into switching to a more secure system for file transfers. FTP passwords are sent "in the clear" - there is no encryption on them at all. So when you log into an FTP server, if someone is monitoring your internet traffic, they can easily get your password.

Users need to take responsibility for making sure a network is secure - not just the system administrators. System admins have many tasks on their plate and they're not always able to respond to security risks as quickly as they should. ]]>