The Most Common Mistakes that Can Cause Data Loss and Identity Theft
YONKERS, NY — Consumers beware – careless online behavior can lead to serious issues, such as a ruined computer or identity theft. In its September issue, Consumer Reports identifies seven of the most common online errors and offers advice on what consumers can do to avoid a Web disaster. The worst missteps include:
- Assuming your security software is protecting you. Because security software is fully effective only when activated and frequently updated, consumers must renew their subscriptions when they expire. Most software requires an annual subscription fee, so pay up to stay covered.
- Accessing an account through an e-mail link. Clicking on an embedded Web link can give cybercriminals account access, and lead to identity theft. Even the most official-looking e-mail messages can be fraudulent, so access online accounts only by typing the institution’s Web address in a browser.
- Using a single password for all online accounts. Using one password for all accounts provides easy access for someone looking to steal a consumer’s identity. Try using variations on one password—the best passwords use a combination of at least eight letters, numbers, or punctuation symbols.
- Downloading free software. Free downloads often come at the price of added spyware which can slow down your computer. To avoid spyware, download freeware from reputable sites like SnapFiles.com and Download.com.
- Thinking your Mac shields you from all risks. Phishing scams are just as much a threat to Mac users as Windows users. Since Apple’s Safari browser has no phishing protection, users should try Firefox or Opera instead.
- Clicking on a pop-up ad that says your PC is insecure. Clicking on a pop-up is never a good idea. Avoid accidentally opening the pop-up by carefully clicking on the “close button” or get rid of pop-ups altogether by enabling the browser’s pop-up blocker.
- Shopping online the same way you do in stores. To avoid scams, use a separate credit card for Internet purchases and don’t use a debit card. Or get a virtual account number from your credit-card company, which is good for only one purchase for a specific vendor.
The latest issue of Consumer Reports also includes test results of security software and ratings on the latest laptop and desktop computers. The report also includes an extensive investigation into ID leaks, and why the government is one of the biggest culprits when it comes to exposing personal information.
For more information on the "Seven Online Blunders" and the entire computer protection package, check out the September issue of Consumer Reports on newsstands August 5, 2008 or visit www.ConsumerReports.org.
Consumer Reports is a nonprofit
membership organization that works side by side with consumers to
create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. For 80 years, CR has provided evidence-based product
testing and ratings, rigorous research, hard-hitting investigative journalism, public education,
and steadfast policy action on behalf of consumers’ interests. Unconstrained by advertising or
other commercial influences, CR has exposed landmark public health and safety issues and strives
to be a catalyst for pro-consumer changes in the marketplace. From championing responsible auto
safety standards, to winning food and water protections, to enhancing healthcare quality, to
fighting back against predatory lenders in the financial markets, Consumer Reports has always
been on the front lines, raising the voices of consumers.
© 2008 Consumer Reports. The material above is intended for legitimate news entities only; it may
not be used for advertising or promotional purposes. Consumer Reports® is an expert, independent,
nonprofit organization whose mission is to work side by side with consumers to create a fairer,
safer, and healthier world. We accept no advertising and pay for all the products we test. We are
not beholden to any commercial interest. Our income is derived from the sale of Consumer Reports®
magazine, ConsumerReports.org® and our other publications and information products, services, fees,
and noncommercial contributions and grants. Our Ratings and reports are intended solely for the use
of our readers. Neither the Ratings nor the reports may be used in advertising or for any other
commercial purpose without our prior written permission. Consumer Reports will take all steps open
to it to prevent unauthorized commercial use of its content and trademarks.
Consumer Reports is a nonprofit
membership organization that works side by side with consumers to
create a fairer, safer, and healthier world. For 80 years, CR has provided evidence-based product
testing and ratings, rigorous research, hard-hitting investigative journalism, public education,
and steadfast policy action on behalf of consumers’ interests. Unconstrained by advertising or
other commercial influences, CR has exposed landmark public health and safety issues and strives
to be a catalyst for pro-consumer changes in the marketplace. From championing responsible auto
safety standards, to winning food and water protections, to enhancing healthcare quality, to
fighting back against predatory lenders in the financial markets, Consumer Reports has always
been on the front lines, raising the voices of consumers.
© 2008 Consumer Reports. The material above is intended for legitimate news entities only; it may
not be used for advertising or promotional purposes. Consumer Reports® is an expert, independent,
nonprofit organization whose mission is to work side by side with consumers to create a fairer,
safer, and healthier world. We accept no advertising and pay for all the products we test. We are
not beholden to any commercial interest. Our income is derived from the sale of Consumer Reports®
magazine, ConsumerReports.org® and our other publications and information products, services, fees,
and noncommercial contributions and grants. Our Ratings and reports are intended solely for the use
of our readers. Neither the Ratings nor the reports may be used in advertising or for any other
commercial purpose without our prior written permission. Consumer Reports will take all steps open
to it to prevent unauthorized commercial use of its content and trademarks.
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