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.

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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.

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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.”

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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.

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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.

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Protect Your Online Identity While Shopping Online this Holiday Season

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

If you’re one of the millions of people who will be shopping online this holiday season, it’s important to take the necessary safety measures to protect your online identity and financial information. With more people shopping online, this time of the year is most attractive to frauders. Fortunately, there are a few helpful tips that you should keep in mind while shopping this holiday season – and beyond. After all, you don’t want to compromise your own privacy when trying to get the best deal.

First and foremost, make sure that you always buy from a reputable seller. If you’re shopping through a major company, this won’t be much of an issue, although you should still always read their privacy policy. But many people choose to shop through such sites as eBay or Amazon where there are thousands of people selling their own products. Be sure to always check out the seller’s validity and feedback.

Second, only enter financial information on secure sites. Most will very visibly say that you are checking out with a secure site, so look for this box somewhere on your checkout page. The URL address should also show “https”. It’s also a great idea to compare prices, as scammers often entice online shoppers with very low prices. Make sure you are buying a fair price for the product, as well as a fair price for shipping and handling, which is often hidden until the very end of your transaction. Some sellers will offer a low cost on a product, but make up for it with unfair shipping charges.

Next, never wire money to anyone or pay in cash. You always want a paper trail, so pay with a credit card and make sure you save confirmation emails and confirmation numbers. When checking out, also make sure that your total is what is actually being charged to your credit card. With a paper trail, it’s always easier to handle returns or damages.

Finally, be a smart shopper and look in depth at the seller’s profile and the product you are purchasing. Some sellers have very confusing websites and will have you inadvertently signing up for free offers or emails that you may not want. Not only can this violate your inbox, but also you may end up choosing a subscription or giving out more information than what is necessary. If you run into a seller that is offering “free” offers before you can check out, look for a box that allows you to go directly to checkout or cease the transaction and shop somewhere else.

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Are You Using the Same Password for All Your Accounts?

Posted on December 3, 2011 by val| Leave a comment

Do you use the same password for all of your accounts? It may seem to be the easiest, most practical choice, but it carries a lot of risk. With email accounts getting hijacked daily, it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect your accounts – and the best way to do this is by alternating your passwords and changing them frequently. If you have a short memory span, make sure to have your list of passwords written down somewhere and update them as needed.

So what’s the big deal with passwords anyway? Passwords are always targets and can easily be accessed by spammers and hijackers. If you have the same password across accounts, hijackers can then get a hold of your financial information and have access to your personal information. Even worse, the person can change your passwords and lock you out of your account, changing information and withdrawing money. It can happen fast, and usually people don’t find out their property is in jeopardy until it has been taken.

If you do use the same passwords, you’re not alone. In fact, a recent study done by Trusteer found that 73 percent of users use the same passwords for their email and other accounts. Many use the same password for everything, as well as the same username. And the longer you continue using these passwords, the easier they will be to steal.

Some browsers are more secure than others and will prompt you to change your password every so often. Others are designed for convenience and end up “remembering” your password so that you never have to enter it in again. Although a time-saver, this is a surefire way to leave your accounts vulnerable for unfavorable people.

So how do you go about changing everything? It’s best to start small and start changing some of your more important accounts such as your bank account, PayPal and email. You can then start branching off and changing passwords on shopping sites, coupon sites and more. Not only should you use different passwords, but usernames as well. You want to be creative and also change your passwords on a regular basis.

You also need to choose strong passwords, not just your favorite numbers, last name or a significant date. Spammers look for these weaknesses in passwords, and they’re not hard to come by. So choose something completely out-of-the-ordinary, non-specific and STRONG. Change passwords about every 45 to 60 days, and update them on in a notebook or address log to keep on track.

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Do Online Surveys Compromise Your Online Identity?

Posted on December 3, 2011 by val| Leave a comment

If you have ever tried to pick up extra cash online, taking paid surveys has probably crossed your mind. Maybe you’ve even tried them out, only to find that they aren’t all that they seem. Not only are paid surveys often scams, but also they can tamper with your online identity. There are different types of online surveys, and not all are necessarily bad.

Some surveys are more like advertisements, and after you fill out the survey, you’ll keep being directed to new pages where you’re asked to buy stuff or subscribe to magazines or try out “free” samples. Before you know it, you’ve given out your name, email and address, subscribed to a million different things and have yet to find where your payment is.

Other surveys are interested in collecting certain information such as your income level or education. When you fill out this information, they take the data and sell it to third parties. Your name and information will go directly on spamming lists, and you’ll find yourself being bombarded with emails and internet offers. The survey may seem to be legit at first glance, but you’ll soon find that it’s not.

Once these details have been accessed about you, spammers have everything they need to know. They can draw up a picture of you and make you a target for identity theft. And if you’ve ever been faced with an online survey that asks you to pay for essentially nothing, the credit card information they have on you only adds in the case of identity theft, and your payment may have gone directly to the spammer.

These types of surveys are generally sought out by people looking to make some extra cash, so it’s easy to get sucked in and make the mistake the first time around. But in some cases, surveys are used to provide feedback from customers. There is no reward with these surveys, and generally they are used for informational purposes only and are safe. But it’s still important that you read the privacy policy and find out why the survey is being taken in the first place.

If you want to partake in surveys, try signing up with a company that handles research offline. These survey opportunities are used for marketing purposes and will pay you cash for your participation. While you will have to travel to the research firm, it’s a great way to make extra cash and partake in surveys that actually relate to you – and all without the risk of spamming. Otherwise, you will need to take every precaution online and ensure that the survey you’re taking is indeed legit and has a privacy policy in place.

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Amazon Kindle Fire Faces Security Concerns

Posted on November 20, 2011 by val| Leave a comment

The Amazon Kindle Fire just hit shelves last week, and Amazon increased their order from 4 million to 5 million tablets in anticipation of the holidays. This hot-seller is already a success, especially as it’s a better and more updated model to the highly popular Kindle. But just like any new technologically advanced device, it’s important to be aware of all the power that is packed into that little tablet.

For starters, the Kindle Fire uses the same operating system as Google Android. And in regards to mobile device operating systems, Android is always under attack. Android hackers are intent on discovering new malware for the system, and who wouldn’t want to find vulnerabilities in the new Kindle Fire?

Fortunately, Amazon is adopting Apple’s highly successful walled garden approach toward app management. With this method, app developers have to submit their app before it is approve by Amazon and available for download. If handled properly, managing the apps this closely will lower the risk of malware, as it has with Apple.

That said, it’s difficult to say which approach Amazon will take when protecting the Kindle Fire from security threats. Since the Android system is more vulnerable to attacks, there’s no doubt that Amazon will need a game plan in place. Will they take a lesson from Apple’s book and steer clear of antivirus talk, or will they allow for security applications that can put more power, user privacy and safety from malware in the hands of the user?

There is one thing we do know for sure and that is the type of cloud that Amazon uses. Cloud computing is commonplace with all networks and stores everyone’s information so that it can be shared and accessed with everyone. With the Kindle Fire, Amazon uses their Elastic Compute Cloud, which stores lists of websites that are visited by the user. With more focus on this type of tracking history, Kindle Fire could be a target for privacy issues.

Nevertheless, the Amazon Kindle is everything you’d want it to be and offers a range of practical features and is the first tablet reader to go beyond standard ebooks, offering a range of magazines, music, videos and apps.

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Divorcing Couple Forced to Give Up Online Passwords

Posted on November 20, 2011 by val| Leave a comment

A young Connecticut couple is setting the stage for future divorce and custody hearings. The couple has been going through a rough divorce, and the judge ordered both parties to exchange their Facebook and dating site passwords.

Stephen Gallion, 24, noticed his wife, Courtney Gallion, 22, acing suspicious around him and their two children. When he spied some of her comments online, he discovered that she had been using the internet to set up dating accounts and post incriminating comments on Facebook. After looking at the comments, Stephen feared the worst: His wife’s social life was more important than her family. Even more disturbing is that she used pictures of the children on her dating site.

During the deposition, Stephen Gallion’s lawyers asked Courtney Gallion for her passwords, and although she said yes, she quickly texted her friends to change them immediately. When the lawyers went to access her accounts, the passwords had already been changed. The lawyers also didn’t want Courtney destroying her online information before they were able to see it.

In the end, both parties agreed to exchange their passwords, and Courtney wasn’t happy about giving up her personal records, stating, “My privacy was completely invaded. It’s embarrassing to have someone read messages that you thought were private and confidential.” This information could potentially hurt her in gaining full custody of her two children.

In lieu of this incident, more lawyers and judges feel that couples are going to have to give up their secret passwords in divorce and custody cases, especially when there are discriminating comments and photographs going around online. What’s more intimidating is that something you posted months or even years ago could be misinterpreted and perhaps even be damaging to the portrait of your character.

Privacy advocates always warn not to post too many photographs of your children online, tag locations or write full names and birth dates. But you also want to be careful not to post anything negative about your parenting or your child, even if it’s all in good humor. You just never know when your private records may be accessed and what could be found.

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Source: NY Post

 

 

 

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