PIPA and SOPA Voting Postponed

Posted on January 23, 2012 by val| Leave a comment

Voting on the two sets of anti-piracy proposals – PIPA and SOPA – has been postponed indefinitely, the U.S. Congress reports. Last week on January 18, 2012, approximately 10,000 websites shut down as a way of showing their disapproval with these proposals that would limit free speech and allow internet censorship. At least that’s according to these sites, among which include Wikipedia, WordPress and Mozilla.

On the other side of the fence, SOPA and PIPA supporters argue that web creators need better tools that would help fight online piracy and copyright infringement. These proposals don’t come out of nowhere. They have been modified many times to reflect the needs of content creators. Initially, the proposals stated that they would have required the blocking of criminal sites, but have since removed this provision because of web content creators speaking out.

Supporters of PIPA and SOPA say that companies that participated in January 18th’s blackout are not sharing the whole story and are instead skewing the facts, which in turn is misguiding the public. These very sites that online users trust are misleading their users and encouraging them to vote against PIPA and SOPA, inevitably allowing piracy and online copyright infringement to keep occurring.

Of course, opponents fire back and say that these proposals will have many unintended consequences that will limit free speech and the internet as a whole. In fact, the whole framework that has made the internet so successful will be broken.

At this time, these online companies want Congress to take a step back, look at the proposal in depth and not rush through anything. Most importantly, they don’t want to have their websites shut down just because they’re affiliated with a site that is engaged in copyright infringement or piracy.

Voting was supposed to take place this month, but has now been placed on hold. PIPA and SOPA are not dead, but just postponed for now, as Congress works to restructure the proposal.

Image Source: iconarchive.com

 

→ Leave a comment

Posted in Online Privacy, Privacy News

Tagged , , , , , , ,

Mobile Banking Apps: Are They Safe?

Posted on January 23, 2012 by val| Leave a comment

How many times have you found yourself away from home and needing to check your account balance? We’ve all been there, and for most of us, we feel more comfortable using an app to check our balance than risk going overdrawn – again. But how safe are these mobile banking apps?

Smart phone banking is on the rise thanks to mobile apps that are fast, efficient and give us the information we need while on the go. These apps are not yet perfected, so they do carry some risk that could have your banking information in the hands of the wrong person.

The most important privacy issue to be aware of is that mobile apps can carry malicious software that steals information from your banking account. App stores don’t always review their apps, so it’s easy to slip this software into them. If you buy directly from Google or Apple, you can expect that the app should be safe, but other app stores – don’t be so sure.

Second, you don’t have the same type of security on your phone as you do on your computer. Therefore, if there is malicious software on the app, the phone won’t recognize it as a laptop or computer would.

Finally, many users choose to use their banking apps while on WiFi networks, which are unprotected and have many people – yes, hackers – watching over what others do. And think about your own phone; if anyone picked it up, it probably wouldn’t have a passcode that would keep an unwanted person out.

Fortunately, you can proceed with caution, even though apps have taken a recent hit with a 400 percent increase in malware in the Android market alone in 2011. First, see if you need an app in the first place. Some banks have a mobile-based website that you can use in place of an app. These banking sites are much more secure, although you still want to use caution when in a WiFi network.

If you do need an app, make sure you buy the app from a reputable app store that tests their apps for malicious software. Google’s Android Market and Apple’s iPhone App Store are good examples of where to buy from. You can also read reviews, check out the privacy policy and password-protect your phone.

Image Source: Flickr.com

→ Leave a comment

Posted in Online Privacy, Privacy News

Tagged , , , , , ,

Women Sue Insurance Company for Bathroom Privacy Violation

Posted on January 11, 2012 by Tiffany| Leave a comment

In 2006, two women who worked for an Ohio insurance salesman found an unpleasant surprise in their company’s bathroom – a hidden video camera. The women, Sara Koeppel and Deanna Miller, filed a lawsuit against their boss, Robert Speirs, for invading their privacy. Last month, the Iowa Supreme Court ruled that the case could go forward, even though the camera didn’t work properly.

According to Speirs, Koeppel’s job performance had deteriorated over time and he suspected her of abusing drugs on the job. He claims he installed the camera originally in the reception area to monitor her performance. After two weeks, he moved the camera to the bathroom, after he claimed he found a used needle in the parking lot under Koeppel’s car.

Koeppel and Miller found the hidden camera before Speirs could remove it and informed the authorities. While Speirs was acquitted on any criminal charges, the women went ahead with a civil lawsuit, seeking to hold Speirs liable for invading their right to privacy at work. In its written opinion, the Iowa Supreme Court explained that a victim doesn’t have to be physically harmed in order have a case for damages. The court stated “Harm from intrusion occurs when a plaintiff reasonably believes an intrusion has occurred.”

While the outcome of the case remains to be seen, the state Supreme Court’s ruling goes a long way to establishing the rights of private individuals. According to the opinion, once an individual’s right to privacy is violated, even if there is no lasting harm, he or she may have a case.

Image c/o: dmuth

→ Leave a comment

Posted in Privacy News

Tagged , , ,

Grading Some of the Year’s Biggest Privacy Breaches

Posted on January 11, 2012 by Tiffany| Leave a comment

Unfortunately, 2011 was a big year for online privacy issues. Multiple corporations suffered massive breaches of personal data, including customers’ names, addresses, email addresses, and even Social Security numbers. Here are some of the biggest data breaches of the past year.

  • Sony’s repeated hacker attacks: Sony had a particularly difficult year when it came to protecting the personal data of their consumers. The PlayStation network was hit repeatedly by Internet hackers, who gained access to gamers’ payment information such as credit card numbers and online passwords. Adding to the public relations nightmare was the fact that Sony had drastically cut its network security staff immediately preceding the first hacker attack. The company has not yet been able to guarantee that the network is fully secure.
  • Sutter suffers computer theft: It doesn’t take Internet theft to steal consumer information. Sometimes companies can be hit through manual theft of equipment. This happened to medical corporation Sutter Physicians Services in 2011, when a desktop computer was stoledn from a building. The computer contained personal information from over 3.3 million patients, includes names, phone numbers, and health insurance data. Sutter is facing a class-action lawsuit over its handling of the security breach.
  • TriCare breach impacts military service members: In another case of manual theft, backup computer tapes were stolen from the vehicle of an employee for one of TriCare’s defense contractors, Science Applications International Corporation. The stolen data included Social Security numbers, names, and addresses of millions of Armed Forces members who were treated by the company over 20 years. The injured parties are suing TriCare for $5 billion due to the theft.

Image c/o: fernand0

→ Leave a comment

Posted in Privacy News

Build Your Online Reputation with a Domain Name

Posted on January 5, 2012 by val| Leave a comment

The web is full of opportunities, and chances are, you’ve already taken advantage of many of them. Maybe you’ve started up your own blog or joined a social networking site. Whatever you’ve done on the internet, you have done on someone else’s platform. You have to follow their rules and agree to their terms, and at the end of the day, nothing you “own” is really yours. This is why it’s important to have a domain name.

Although getting your own domain name is a must in today’s world, many people are still without one. The main reason for this is because you have to pay for it, and why pay for something when you can get a version – a restricted, not-really-yours-version nevertheless – for free? But there are many advantages to having your own domain, and they’re all worth the cost.

First off, a domain is a larger site on the web such as Google. There are many smaller sites that are part of this domain, and users can set up blogs, post comments, status updates and photos, and have their own email accounts and documents. But at the end of the day, everything you do is on the domain that belongs to Google.

There are a few disadvantages to this, even though the platform is easy to use, easy to understand and makes you feel that you have your “own” niche on the internet. First, if you happen to violate any of the terms or agreements, you may have your account closed and you’ll lose all of your work. For bloggers, this can be damaging. Second, if you become profitable as a blogger, you will never be able to sell your blog because – well – it’s not really yours.

When you have your own domain name, you gain credibility, set your own rules (for the most part) and have the utmost flexibility. And you never have to work within the boundaries of another domain, which means you can be most profitable with your work, expanding your network and the possibilities.

Now, if you’re not an online freelancer, you’re probably thinking that domains are not necessary. But consider that many parents are actually buying their children a domain name before they’re even born. They know that we’re living in the digital age and that having this credibility is essential. By reserving a domain name from the beginning, their children can start building a healthy, reliable online reputation.

Today, domain names cost about $8 to $10, so they’re fairly inexpensive. You will pay annually for the service, but remember – it’s yours to keep.

Image: dropwatch.com

→ Leave a comment

Posted in Online Privacy, Privacy News

Tagged , , , ,

Online Privacy: There’s an App for That Too!

Posted on January 5, 2012 by val| Leave a comment

As we celebrate the New Year, there has never been so much anticipation for changes being made with online privacy. Some think that 2012 IS the year for online privacy and the time that people will be able to virtually ‘vanish’ online. When considering whether or not this year will bring a lot of change to the internet, it’s interesting to wonder how the change will come.

Sure, sites like Google and Facebook have made updates to their systems that have enabled users to have more control over their privacy, even opting out of being tracked – to some degree at least. But the future lies in more than just privacy settings; the future lies in apps.

Take note that on Christmas Day, seven million smartphones and tablets were activated. That number is way up from the 2.8 million that were activated one year ago. And when you consider all the devices that run off apps – from Apple’s iPhone to Amazon’s Kindle – it seems that everything these days are made for apps.

It’s no surprise that apps are so popular. They allow users to customize their tablets and smartphones, while choosing the exact applications that match their interests, lifestyles and personalities. Each tablet is different from the next because of these apps, and it’s easy to offer new and exciting material, keeping the whole concept of tablets and smartphones fresh.

This year, many people suspect that online privacy will come in the form of an app as well. And, it makes sense when you think about it: You download an app that watches out for you, protects your online image and prevents internet companies and marketers from tracking your internet usage.

Apps may also be made in slimmed down versions that don’t offer all the amenities as their full, Big-Brother-style versions. In general, new apps on the market for 2012 will limit what internet companies can see when tracking users on the web.

But remember, not everything is actually as good as it sounds. Many apps are made possible by tracking the user’s web activity. For example, how do you expect to get directions when the app can’t track where you are, or how are you supposed to get the full benefits of a music app when the software can’t track what you listen to?

For many users, it’s a matter of convenience and privacy, and convenience still comes out on top. While you may fork over some privacy, having these apps in their full form is most attractive for users. However, for those that are willing to get streamlined designs of applications, they can better protect their online identities and take control over their online reputation.

Image: mashable.com

→ Leave a comment

Posted in Online Privacy, Privacy News

Tagged , , , , , ,

Tips for Repairing Your Online Reputation in 2012

Posted on January 5, 2012 by val| Leave a comment

We’re already into the first week of the New Year and you’ve probably come up with a dozen New Year’s resolutions for 2012. Eat better? Check. Exercise more? Check. Repair your online reputation? Er…check?

There’s no doubt that this should be among your top resolutions, especially as we look forward to an increase in online privacy that advocates have been fighting for over the past several years. While the government has been unable to come together and form the collective effort that we had hoped for, we are making progress. There is always the concern that if we take away online tracking completely, the foundation for the internet will collapse.

Since we are essentially always being tracked, it doesn’t take long for us to build up an online reputation. In fact, if you post a few pics of your kids and write about them in your Facebook status updates, you’ve already started building an online reputation for them.

Online reputations are not always what people want them to be. If you’ve found yourself amongst this group of people, it may be time to repair your online presence. Whether you want to move past your partying college ways or revamp your professional image, we have the tips you need.

1. Gather Information. Most people aren’t aware of their online reputation, so take ownership and search for yourself regularly on such site as Google and Yahoo.

2. Adjust Privacy Settings. No matter which social networking sites you’re using, new updates often restore the privacy settings to the default. Always make sure that your privacy settings are adjusted accordingly – and keep your account protected.

3. Think Public. Any time you tweet, post a status update or email, send it with the intention that the whole world is reading. Too often, people post a picture or something personal, only to find that they regret it later on.

4. Interact with the Internet. By commenting on blog posts or sites that matter to you, you can gain a credible reputation, share your beliefs and have more positive search rankings.

5. Buy Your Own Domain Name. Instead of operating underneath someone else’s platform, start your own domain name. It gives you credibility and allows you to build the reputation you want, without having to go by someone else’s rules.

Image: oneyearintexas.com

→ Leave a comment

Posted in Online Privacy, Privacy News

Tagged , , , ,

Should Smartphone Owners Expect to Give Up Their Privacy Rights?

Posted on December 17, 2011 by Tiffany| Leave a comment

If you’re a cell phone owner (and who isn’t), you may be weighing whether getting a smartphone is a good idea or not. There’s no doubt that these devices are extremely convenient, useful, and downright fun to use. And it doesn’t hurt that they look so cool either. However, smartphone owners are among the most monitored people in the world, whether they realize it or not. As the extensive tentacles of cell phone providers, applications, and social media websites grow, more and more smartphone owners are trading privacy for technology.

One of the main ways that smartphone owners are tracked is within the phone itself. If you turn on the wi-fi option on your phone, you’re able to connect to other wireless networks in  your area. This may make your web browsing and communications quicker, but you may also be broadcasting your location to mobile phone providers around the world. GPS tracking applications are another way that smartphone owners are monitored. These apps use your physical location to determine where you are and then make recommendations or suggestions as to what ads are relevant to you. You might think that these apps don’t affect you, but several of the extremely popular smartphone apps such as FourSquare, Facebook, and Yelp use GPS software to establish your location and allow you to “check in” or provide reviews of certain establishments.

As some technology writers believe, these programs are incredibly intrusive, but incredibly entertaining as well. And most smartphone owners are more than willing to give up some of their user privacy for the experience of using one of these devices As Gizmodo writer Sam Biddle put it, “That line of creepiness is there, but it’s eroding quickly because, frankly, we are just getting used to it.”

Image c/o: digitpedia

→ Leave a comment

Posted in Online Privacy, Privacy News

Tagged , , , ,

Can Sending an Email to Santa Claus Expose Your Online Privacy?

Posted on December 17, 2011 by Tiffany| Leave a comment

Many adults remember the days when kids would write letters to the North Pole, in the hopes that the real Santa Claus would read their Christmas wish lists and bring them the presents they wanted. Well, Dear Santa letters have finally caught up with the pace of technology, as many websites that claim to offer children a way to send their wish lists to the North Pole have been set up. According to the Augusta Chronicle, over 60 domain names relating to Dear Santa letters were already established by late November.

While helping your child craft an email to Santa might seem like a cute idea, there’s definitely reason for caution when  you use one of these third-party websites, particularly since these websites specifically cater to young children, who need the supervision of their parents when they’re online anyway. The Children’s Advertising Review Unit states that all websites that market to children should reveal the full name of the company and disclose whether they share any collected data with other companies. This policy may seem extreme, but is it so outrageous to demand to know who our children are communicating with online?

This non-profit review committee recommends that parents sit with their kids as they fill out their Santa letters and help them write a wish list that keeps their personal information safe. Children should not provide any physical description of themselves, nor should they give their real names or mailing addresses. Parents should also read over the site’s requirements to find out how much personal information the site asks children to provide. If a company requests more than a first name and a valid email address, the site may be intending to use this information for marketing purposes.

Image c/o: RambergMediaImages

→ Leave a comment

Posted in Online Privacy, Privacy News

Tagged , , , , , ,

Is Signing Up for Free Samples Safe?

Posted on December 11, 2011 by val| Leave a comment

Who doesn’t like a free sample these days? And thanks to the internet, getting free samples has never been easier. You don’t have to fill out any forms or pay postage to mail them; instead you just fill out your information directly online, submit it to the giveaway company and your free samples arrive in the mail. But how safe is this process? The saying goes, “nothing in life is free”, so what is at the expense of signing up for free samples?

For starters, you’re giving away a slice of your online privacy in exchange for the samples. Giveaway companies collect such information as names, emails and addresses any time you fill out a form for a free sample. Most of the time, people don’t think much of this process, as the sample has to get to them somehow, so it doesn’t seem out of place to request this information.

What happens however, is that this information can be sold to third parties. And in the meantime, sites like Google will be watching you as you visit these free giveaway sites, which means you’ll be linked with more ads on your screen prompting you to take advantage of other offers.

While free samples can be worth it, it’s always important to evaluate the program you’re entering into and if the offering of your personal information is worth it. If you’re in dire need of baby samples for example, you may feel fine getting free diaper samples, wipes and baby products in exchange for your name and address. Just remember that as enticing as these free offers sound, they are often in the form of one diaper or a packet of baby lotion.

Another thing to keep in mind is that giveaway sites may also have third parties advertising on their site, and these companies will have separate privacy policies. In this case, one simple click can have you signing up with a completely different company without you even knowing it.

That’s not to say that free samples aren’t worth your time. But it’s best to choose a few sites that you know are reputable – so read their reviews and feedback from current members and customers. Read the privacy policy in detail as well. Even though many companies say that they do not sell the information of their members, there is a loophole where they may allow their third party vendors who help manage their site to use your information.

Also look to see if the site is in compliance with the appropriate safety measures such as COPPA and the regulations of your state. While nothing is ever foolproof, you can certainly enjoy your free samples if you know you are not continually putting your privacy on the line.

Image: youthchg.com

→ Leave a comment

Posted in Online Privacy, Privacy News

Tagged , , , , , ,