If you get an e-mail telling you your Facebook password has been changed and a new one Is attached, delete it immediately -- it's the latest Facebook scam, according to an alert from the Better Business Bureau.
Here's what it looks like:
From: Facebook, Artemus Rubert [mailto:amazor@facebook.com]
Sent: Wednesday, September 22, 2010 2:48 AM
To: MY EMAIL ADDRESS DELETED
Subject: Facebook password has been changed.
Dear user of facebook.
Because of the measures taken to provide safety to our clients, your password has been changed.
You can find your new password in attached document.
Thanks,
Your Facebook.
"With 500 million users, Facebook is one of the largest breeding grounds on the Internet for 'phishing' scams," said BBB President Tom Bartholomy in a statement. "Scammers are looking for any hook to get you to click on their links or attachments so they can get to your personal information."
The BBB warning comes exactly one day after their last Facebook scam alert, cautioning users to beware of another phishing scam known as "clickjacking," which tricks users into clicking on a link that triggers a program bombarding their e-mail accounts and everyone in their address books with spam.
Although Facebook did not immediately respond to a request from Consumer Ally to comment, these scams are literally becoming a daily occurrence, due primarily to the extraordinary amount of Facebook users, which at half a billion, exceeds the population of every nation on earth -- apart from India and China.
If Facebook's rapid growth continues, it's on course to exceed the total number of Internet users in China, which the Economist places at 420 million. According to Facebook, more than 50% of its 500 million active users log on in any given day and spend more than 700 billion minutes per month on the social networking site.
Apart from the enormous target of opportunity presented by the sheer number of Facebook users, scammers are undoubtedly aided by the fact that many Facebook users are young, and as such, probably more gullible and prone to click before they think.
The BBB urges Facebook users to be on the alert for the following red flags to avoid becoming a victim of identity theft:
Password changes -- Facebook is NOT going to send you an e-mail with a new password. If Facebook suspects fraudulently activity with your account, it will send a direct message to your Facebook account, and instruct you to go to your "Settings" button to change your password yourself.
Attachments/Links -- You should always be suspicious of e-mails that instruct you to download an attachment or click on a link. Attachments and links are the primary methods by which viruses, spyware and malware are spread.
E-mail address – If you only have your personal email address on your Facebook account and you get a "Facebook" e-mail on your business account, you should be suspicious and not open the e-mail.
Grammar, punctuation and typos – The grammar and incorrect punctuation used in the latest e-mail scam indicates that English is probably not the sender's first language. "Dear user of Facebook" is an example. In American English, it would more likely be "Dear Facebook User." Grammatical errors and awkward phrasing are tip-offs that the sender is probably in another country and that the e-mail is a scam. This is a red flag for any suspect e-mail you get, as most corporations will have any written information they send out to users and clients professionally copy edited.
The BBB also offers this general advice to stay safe online:
Delete any suspicious e-mails as soon as you receive them.
Do not click on any links.
Do not download any attachments.
Do not call any telephone numbers that may be in the e-mail.
Protect your computer with a good quality, up-to-date, anti-virus software program.
Since many Facebook users are young people, parents should talk to their children about Facebook scams and how to spot them. Young people are very computer savvy, but may not be scam savvy.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Danger: Facebook 'Dislike Button' Is Just Another Scam
Not to be party poopers or anything, but you know all those statuses you've seen on your friends' Facebook profiles, claiming to have finally installed that elusive 'Dislike Button?' Totally fake. Tragic news, we know, but, as of now, there's still no official dislike button, and anyone with a status claiming otherwise is just another victim of the latest scam to hit Facebook. As Sophos explains, the scam seems to be spreading through status updates that read, "I just got the Dislike button, so now I can dislike all of your dumb posts lol!!" or, alternatively, "Get the official DISLIKE button NOW!" Both versions, predictably enough, are followed by a link.
Of course, you're not gullible enough to actually click on the link, because if you did, you'd end up on a page asking you to 'install' the button. At this point, your internal alarms should go off, because if the dislike button were real, Facebook would've just automatically added it to your profile. If, on the other hand, you go ahead and click through the installation process, you'll have to first grant the app permission to run on your profile. The app will then automatically post the same link and message to your profile, before asking you to fill out a survey in order to complete the installation. Upon filling out the survey, you'll land on a Firefox add-on called FaceMod, which offers something called the "Facebook Dislike Button (the Original)."
At this point, it doesn't seem like the FaceMod add-on has anything to do with this scam, aside from providing a convenient cover for whoever's trying to make a few cents off these surveys. There's also no indication that the add-on is corrupt or malicious -- but it's definitely not official. So if you want to install FaceMod's button, you should probably do so directly from Mozilla's add-on site, and not through some suspicious link you find on your Facebook feed. For our money, though, we'd recommend holding off until an authentic dislike button comes along -- even if it means waiting for a long time.
Of course, you're not gullible enough to actually click on the link, because if you did, you'd end up on a page asking you to 'install' the button. At this point, your internal alarms should go off, because if the dislike button were real, Facebook would've just automatically added it to your profile. If, on the other hand, you go ahead and click through the installation process, you'll have to first grant the app permission to run on your profile. The app will then automatically post the same link and message to your profile, before asking you to fill out a survey in order to complete the installation. Upon filling out the survey, you'll land on a Firefox add-on called FaceMod, which offers something called the "Facebook Dislike Button (the Original)."
At this point, it doesn't seem like the FaceMod add-on has anything to do with this scam, aside from providing a convenient cover for whoever's trying to make a few cents off these surveys. There's also no indication that the add-on is corrupt or malicious -- but it's definitely not official. So if you want to install FaceMod's button, you should probably do so directly from Mozilla's add-on site, and not through some suspicious link you find on your Facebook feed. For our money, though, we'd recommend holding off until an authentic dislike button comes along -- even if it means waiting for a long time.
Friday, July 2, 2010
How to Tighten Your Browser's Security
One of the most basic ways to protect your computer from potentially harmful online content or malicious software is easy, fast and free. How? Just make sure your browser's security settings are set at the appropriate level.
No matter which browser you use, always follow these top five security tips:
1. Delete spam messages without opening them or replying to them.
2. Use great caution when clicking on links sent to you in e-mail or text messages.
3. Do not open e-mail attachments unless you know the sender and you're expecting the attachment.
4. Create strong passwords. Use different passwords for your online banking accounts.
5. Make sure you use a firewall, as well as antivirus and antispyware software that is automatically updated.
What are the security settings on your browser? Here's how you can find out in Internet Explorer and Firefox.
How to check your Internet Explorer security settings:
1. Open Internet Explorer.
2. Click the Tools button and then click Internet Options.
3. Click the Security tab.
You will see four security zones:
• Internet: The level of security for the Internet zone is applied to all Web sites by default. The security level for this zone is set to medium-high, but you can change it to either medium or high. The only Web sites for which this security setting is not used are those in the Local Intranet zone, or sites that you specifically entered into the Trusted or Restricted Site zones.
• Local Intranet: The level of security for the Local Intranet zone is applied to Web sites and content that is stored on a corporate or business network. The security level for the Local Intranet zone is set to medium, but you can change it to any level.
• Trusted Sites: The level of security for Trusted Sites is applied to sites that you have specifically indicated to be ones that you trust not to damage your computer or information. The security level for Trusted Sites is set to medium, but you can change it to any level.
• Restricted Sites: The level of security for Restricted Sites is applied to sites that might potentially damage your computer or compromise your personal information. Adding sites to the Restricted zone does not block them, but it prevents them from using scripting or any active content. The security level for Restricted Sites is set to high and cannot be changed.
As you move around the Internet, IE automatically changes the security zone as needed and sets your security level for each Web site by default, ranging from low or medium-low for a corporate Intranet site, to high for a restricted site.
How to view or change the security settings on Internet Explorer 7/8:
In addition to these default security levels, you can customize individual security settings.
1. Open Internet Explorer.
2. Click the Tools button and then click Internet Options.
3. Click the Security tab.
4. Click the "Custom level..." button.
5. At the bottom of the pop-up box, you can reset the security setting to something higher or lower. Settings that are not at recommended levels will be highlighted in red.
6. If you modify your security settings and want to change them back to the default level, follow the above instructions through step 4. Then click on the "Reset all zones to default level" button.
How to view or change the security settings in Firefox 3x:
To make sure your security settings offer you the most protection, do the following:
1. Open Firefox.
2. Click on the Tools button and then click Options.
3. Click on the Security tab.
Step 1: Make sure the first three blocks are checked:
• Warn me when sites try to install add-ons.
Firefox will always ask you to confirm installations of add-ons. To prevent unrequested installation prompts that may lead to accidental installations, Firefox warns you when a Web site tries to install an add-on and blocks the installation prompt.
• Block reported attack sites.
Firefox will check whether the site you are visiting may be an attempt to interfere with normal computer functions or send personal data about you to unauthorized parties over the Internet.
• Block reported Web forgeries.
Firefox will actively check to determine whether the site you are visiting may be an attempt to mislead you into providing personal information, often referred to as "phishing."
Step 2: Passwords
Firefox saves your passwords by default, but if anyone else ever uses your computer, turn this feature off to protect your password security. To do this:
1. Open Firefox.
2. Click on the Tools button and then click Options.
3. Click on the Security tab.
4. Uncheck "Remember Passwords for Sites."
If you share your computer with others, you can set a Master Password in Firefox. This allows you to keep secure the username and passwords of Web sites you visit so no one else but you can access this information. To set a Master Password:
1. Open Firefox.
2. Click on the Tools button and then click Options.
3. Click on the Security tab.
4. Click "Use a master password." You'll be prompted to enter a password. (You can also follow these steps to change your Master Password.) A password-quality meter will judge the security of the password you have chosen.
IMPORTANT: Make sure you remember your Master Password! Without it, even you will not be able to access any of the information it protects or change the password.
Step 3: Warning Messages
1. Open Firefox.
2. Click on the Tools button and then click Options.
3. Click on the Security tab.
4. Click the Settings button that appears to the right of "Choose which warning messages you want to see while browsing the web."
5. At minimum, make sure the box is checked for "I am about to view a page that uses low-grade encryption."
No matter which browser you use, always follow these top five security tips:
1. Delete spam messages without opening them or replying to them.
2. Use great caution when clicking on links sent to you in e-mail or text messages.
3. Do not open e-mail attachments unless you know the sender and you're expecting the attachment.
4. Create strong passwords. Use different passwords for your online banking accounts.
5. Make sure you use a firewall, as well as antivirus and antispyware software that is automatically updated.
What are the security settings on your browser? Here's how you can find out in Internet Explorer and Firefox.
How to check your Internet Explorer security settings:
1. Open Internet Explorer.
2. Click the Tools button and then click Internet Options.
3. Click the Security tab.
You will see four security zones:
• Internet: The level of security for the Internet zone is applied to all Web sites by default. The security level for this zone is set to medium-high, but you can change it to either medium or high. The only Web sites for which this security setting is not used are those in the Local Intranet zone, or sites that you specifically entered into the Trusted or Restricted Site zones.
• Local Intranet: The level of security for the Local Intranet zone is applied to Web sites and content that is stored on a corporate or business network. The security level for the Local Intranet zone is set to medium, but you can change it to any level.
• Trusted Sites: The level of security for Trusted Sites is applied to sites that you have specifically indicated to be ones that you trust not to damage your computer or information. The security level for Trusted Sites is set to medium, but you can change it to any level.
• Restricted Sites: The level of security for Restricted Sites is applied to sites that might potentially damage your computer or compromise your personal information. Adding sites to the Restricted zone does not block them, but it prevents them from using scripting or any active content. The security level for Restricted Sites is set to high and cannot be changed.
As you move around the Internet, IE automatically changes the security zone as needed and sets your security level for each Web site by default, ranging from low or medium-low for a corporate Intranet site, to high for a restricted site.
How to view or change the security settings on Internet Explorer 7/8:
In addition to these default security levels, you can customize individual security settings.
1. Open Internet Explorer.
2. Click the Tools button and then click Internet Options.
3. Click the Security tab.
4. Click the "Custom level..." button.
5. At the bottom of the pop-up box, you can reset the security setting to something higher or lower. Settings that are not at recommended levels will be highlighted in red.
6. If you modify your security settings and want to change them back to the default level, follow the above instructions through step 4. Then click on the "Reset all zones to default level" button.
How to view or change the security settings in Firefox 3x:
To make sure your security settings offer you the most protection, do the following:
1. Open Firefox.
2. Click on the Tools button and then click Options.
3. Click on the Security tab.
Step 1: Make sure the first three blocks are checked:
• Warn me when sites try to install add-ons.
Firefox will always ask you to confirm installations of add-ons. To prevent unrequested installation prompts that may lead to accidental installations, Firefox warns you when a Web site tries to install an add-on and blocks the installation prompt.
• Block reported attack sites.
Firefox will check whether the site you are visiting may be an attempt to interfere with normal computer functions or send personal data about you to unauthorized parties over the Internet.
• Block reported Web forgeries.
Firefox will actively check to determine whether the site you are visiting may be an attempt to mislead you into providing personal information, often referred to as "phishing."
Step 2: Passwords
Firefox saves your passwords by default, but if anyone else ever uses your computer, turn this feature off to protect your password security. To do this:
1. Open Firefox.
2. Click on the Tools button and then click Options.
3. Click on the Security tab.
4. Uncheck "Remember Passwords for Sites."
If you share your computer with others, you can set a Master Password in Firefox. This allows you to keep secure the username and passwords of Web sites you visit so no one else but you can access this information. To set a Master Password:
1. Open Firefox.
2. Click on the Tools button and then click Options.
3. Click on the Security tab.
4. Click "Use a master password." You'll be prompted to enter a password. (You can also follow these steps to change your Master Password.) A password-quality meter will judge the security of the password you have chosen.
IMPORTANT: Make sure you remember your Master Password! Without it, even you will not be able to access any of the information it protects or change the password.
Step 3: Warning Messages
1. Open Firefox.
2. Click on the Tools button and then click Options.
3. Click on the Security tab.
4. Click the Settings button that appears to the right of "Choose which warning messages you want to see while browsing the web."
5. At minimum, make sure the box is checked for "I am about to view a page that uses low-grade encryption."
Monday, June 14, 2010
Safe Surfing this Summer
• Use security software that updates automatically.
Anti-virus software protects your computer from viruses that can destroy data, crash your computer or slow it down tremendously. Viruses can even allow spammers to send e-mail through your account. Anti-virus works by scanning your computer and your incoming e-mail for viruses, and then deleting them.
Anti-spyware software detects software that has been installed on your computer without your consent for the purposes of monitoring and/or controlling your Internet usage. Spyware can send pop-up ads, redirect you to websites you never intended to visit, and capture your keystrokes. All of this may be done to steal your identity or other personal information.
Firewalls guard against attempts to send your personal information out from your computer without your permission. A firewall will block communications to and from sources that you don’t permit.
• Be sure to use the privacy settings provided by your social network provider. Facebook, MySpace and other sites provide security settings. It’s up to you to use them.
In addition to technical protections, you should also take some physical precautions when traveling to protect electronic devices – both personal and company-assigned.
• Don’t let your PC or other mobile device out of your sight. You never know who is watching. Airports, coffee houses and other hot spots are perfect locations for someone to pick up and walk off with your device.
When traveling by air – don’t store your devices in checked luggage. You should always carry it on. Luggage is often damaged, misdirected or lost. If your device is with you at all times, you minimize that risk.
When traveling by vehicle – remember that parked cars are a popular target for theft. That’s especially true if merchandise or electronic equipment is visible through windows. If you must leave your device in the car, keep it out of sight.
In coffee houses and restaurants – don’t leave your device “just for a minute.” As quickly as you turn your back, someone could swipe your PC, BlackBerry or iPad from the table and exit the building.
In hotel rooms – try not to leave your electronic devices behind. If you must, use the in-room safe to store your belongings. You may also consider using the “Do Not Disturb” sign to discourage anyone from entering your room.
Taking just a few precautions will help ensure a summer of safe surfing . . . Web surfing, that is.
Anti-virus software protects your computer from viruses that can destroy data, crash your computer or slow it down tremendously. Viruses can even allow spammers to send e-mail through your account. Anti-virus works by scanning your computer and your incoming e-mail for viruses, and then deleting them.
Anti-spyware software detects software that has been installed on your computer without your consent for the purposes of monitoring and/or controlling your Internet usage. Spyware can send pop-up ads, redirect you to websites you never intended to visit, and capture your keystrokes. All of this may be done to steal your identity or other personal information.
Firewalls guard against attempts to send your personal information out from your computer without your permission. A firewall will block communications to and from sources that you don’t permit.
• Be sure to use the privacy settings provided by your social network provider. Facebook, MySpace and other sites provide security settings. It’s up to you to use them.
In addition to technical protections, you should also take some physical precautions when traveling to protect electronic devices – both personal and company-assigned.
• Don’t let your PC or other mobile device out of your sight. You never know who is watching. Airports, coffee houses and other hot spots are perfect locations for someone to pick up and walk off with your device.
When traveling by air – don’t store your devices in checked luggage. You should always carry it on. Luggage is often damaged, misdirected or lost. If your device is with you at all times, you minimize that risk.
When traveling by vehicle – remember that parked cars are a popular target for theft. That’s especially true if merchandise or electronic equipment is visible through windows. If you must leave your device in the car, keep it out of sight.
In coffee houses and restaurants – don’t leave your device “just for a minute.” As quickly as you turn your back, someone could swipe your PC, BlackBerry or iPad from the table and exit the building.
In hotel rooms – try not to leave your electronic devices behind. If you must, use the in-room safe to store your belongings. You may also consider using the “Do Not Disturb” sign to discourage anyone from entering your room.
Taking just a few precautions will help ensure a summer of safe surfing . . . Web surfing, that is.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
My Computer Takes Forever to Boot Up!
A friend calls -- did you get my email? Did you see that hilarious video? Have you heard that new song? You turn your computer on, eager to see what the fuss is all about … and wait. The little hourglass taunts you, tempts you, but you know clicking won't help. The hard drive grinds away. Speaking of grinding, maybe it's time to get a cup of coffee. Sigh.
One of the most common complaints we hear is how long it takes to start up a computer. In some cases it can take as long as 20-30 minutes before a PC is really ready to go. Some choose to get around that problem by leaving their computers on all the time, but that's a waste of electricity, and it may not be good for the overall health of a home computer to be left running 24/7. Isn't there a better way?
Older computers are, of course, more likely to suffer from these symptoms. But simply buying a new computer isn't a feasible solution for everyone, especially when times are tough. Nor is cracking open your PC's case to add memory. Rather, there are steps one can take without spending a lot of money -- and without using a screwdriver -- that can help reduce the time it takes to start up.
A Word About Anti-Virus Software
Before we begin, we would be remiss if we didn't mention anti-virus software. It's true that running anti-virus software will cause some delay in startup. But we do NOT recommend removing anti-virus software to improve startup speed -- such protections are a crucial defense against online threats. Rather, we recommend that you ensure you're running updated security software -- newer versions tend to be better about hogging system resources. For more information, look at previous issues of our blog or visit us at facebook.com/WebAddo.
Startup Slowdown
One of the primary culprits on a slow-starting PC is the array of junk that has been placed on the machine by the programs we use (and don't use). Many of the programs installed on our computers require the PC to do something at startup so they'll load more quickly when you want to use them. But often there are programs we no longer use, or use rarely, that are bogging down boot-up.
You can see what programs are on your computer's startup list by clicking the Start button, then Run, then typing MSCONFIG, then pressing Enter. The System Configuration Utility appears -- click the Startup tab. This displays everything that loads in the background when you start your computer. If it's a very long list, it's probably slowing you down.
Look through the list and see if you recognize anything you don't or rarely use. Be careful -- you don't want to remove everything! We recommend leaving any drivers for your graphics/video controller and other peripherals, as well as any antivirus or firewall software. But if you look closely you can probably spot unnecessary extras that could be eliminated.
A process library site (which you can find in Search) can help explain what individual startup items do and if they are needed. If you find a program you can live without, uncheck it on the list; when you're done, click OK and you will be prompted to reboot.
Font Fog
Another little-known trick is to remove fonts. Each time Windows starts up, it loads every font on your machine. The more fonts you have, the longer it takes. Most of us tend to use the same few fonts for almost everything we do, so if you find your computer has more than a few hundred installed, you may want to consider cleaning out the list.
The steps for removing fonts varies by the version of Windows you're using, but here are instructions for Windows XP from Microsoft Support. One thing to consider before you remove any fonts is whether you might want them back one day. If that's the case, you can remove fonts from the Fonts Folder and copy them elsewhere on your hard drive; doing so will prevent the fonts from loading at startup, but make it easier for you to restore them if you change your mind down the road.
Other Ideas
A little "spring cleaning" on your computer often helps improve performance. Getting rid of old files, cleaning and defragmenting your hard drive, removing viruses and spyware, and uninstalling software you no longer use helps your machine run more efficiently. For tips and tricks to help speed up your PC, click here.
Finally, if you're not sure about making these kinds of changes on your own, there's software that can help do it for you. AOL offers System Mechanic and PerfectSpeed, both of which help speed up a struggling PC by removing unnecessary startup items, cleaning your hard drive, updating your Windows registry and more.
One of the most common complaints we hear is how long it takes to start up a computer. In some cases it can take as long as 20-30 minutes before a PC is really ready to go. Some choose to get around that problem by leaving their computers on all the time, but that's a waste of electricity, and it may not be good for the overall health of a home computer to be left running 24/7. Isn't there a better way?
Older computers are, of course, more likely to suffer from these symptoms. But simply buying a new computer isn't a feasible solution for everyone, especially when times are tough. Nor is cracking open your PC's case to add memory. Rather, there are steps one can take without spending a lot of money -- and without using a screwdriver -- that can help reduce the time it takes to start up.
A Word About Anti-Virus Software
Before we begin, we would be remiss if we didn't mention anti-virus software. It's true that running anti-virus software will cause some delay in startup. But we do NOT recommend removing anti-virus software to improve startup speed -- such protections are a crucial defense against online threats. Rather, we recommend that you ensure you're running updated security software -- newer versions tend to be better about hogging system resources. For more information, look at previous issues of our blog or visit us at facebook.com/WebAddo.
Startup Slowdown
One of the primary culprits on a slow-starting PC is the array of junk that has been placed on the machine by the programs we use (and don't use). Many of the programs installed on our computers require the PC to do something at startup so they'll load more quickly when you want to use them. But often there are programs we no longer use, or use rarely, that are bogging down boot-up.
You can see what programs are on your computer's startup list by clicking the Start button, then Run, then typing MSCONFIG, then pressing Enter. The System Configuration Utility appears -- click the Startup tab. This displays everything that loads in the background when you start your computer. If it's a very long list, it's probably slowing you down.
Look through the list and see if you recognize anything you don't or rarely use. Be careful -- you don't want to remove everything! We recommend leaving any drivers for your graphics/video controller and other peripherals, as well as any antivirus or firewall software. But if you look closely you can probably spot unnecessary extras that could be eliminated.
A process library site (which you can find in Search) can help explain what individual startup items do and if they are needed. If you find a program you can live without, uncheck it on the list; when you're done, click OK and you will be prompted to reboot.
Font Fog
Another little-known trick is to remove fonts. Each time Windows starts up, it loads every font on your machine. The more fonts you have, the longer it takes. Most of us tend to use the same few fonts for almost everything we do, so if you find your computer has more than a few hundred installed, you may want to consider cleaning out the list.
The steps for removing fonts varies by the version of Windows you're using, but here are instructions for Windows XP from Microsoft Support. One thing to consider before you remove any fonts is whether you might want them back one day. If that's the case, you can remove fonts from the Fonts Folder and copy them elsewhere on your hard drive; doing so will prevent the fonts from loading at startup, but make it easier for you to restore them if you change your mind down the road.
Other Ideas
A little "spring cleaning" on your computer often helps improve performance. Getting rid of old files, cleaning and defragmenting your hard drive, removing viruses and spyware, and uninstalling software you no longer use helps your machine run more efficiently. For tips and tricks to help speed up your PC, click here.
Finally, if you're not sure about making these kinds of changes on your own, there's software that can help do it for you. AOL offers System Mechanic and PerfectSpeed, both of which help speed up a struggling PC by removing unnecessary startup items, cleaning your hard drive, updating your Windows registry and more.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
New porn virus holds your browsing history hostage
In the beginning, most computer viruses were simply aimed at causing trouble for users and giving the virus creator bragging rights. But increasingly, these individuals and organizations are writing viruses aimed at making them rich. The most recent example is a virus that threatens to publish your browsing history online unless you pay a ransom of $15.
The virus which is reportedly the work of a Japanese gang, infects computers that connect to a Winni, a popular file-sharing site in Japan that claims up to 200 million users, and enables the download of an illegal game file. Once users download the infected file, the program takes a screenshot of the the sites they have visited online, often including sites that users wouldn't want their spouses, family, friends and employers learning about; and puts it online under their name.
If the user doesn't pay $15 U.S. immediately, the file will go live online and eventually be picked up by Google and incorporated into search results. With more employers turning to Google for a look at job candidates, this type of information could be a deal breaker if you've been surfing the seedier side of the Web.
In the instance of the Kenzero virus, the BBC reports that 5,500 individuals have already admitted to being a victim of the virus, which was distributed in a target-rich environment. The Winni file-sharing site is known for, amongst other file types, pornographic material. Combine the potential for embarrassment with the relatively low ransom and the virus-writing gang has the potential to make a significant amount of money (and gather credit card details as well).
The easiest way to avoid viruses like this is to avoid downloading copyrighted material illegally. In addition, you should also be sure to have an up-to-date antivirus program like AVG Free or the reputation-checking Norton 360, to keep you protected from viruses that make their way to your computer. If you do become the victim of a ransom-ware virus, don't give the criminal your credit card number, unless you want that information sold to the highest bidder.
While you're at it you should look at using your browser's private browsing mode when you are visiting sites that you don't want to share with other users of your computers, or in this case the world. In private browsing mode, the browser doesn't store information about the sites you visit. Here's how to turn on private browsing in Firefox, Google Chrome, Safari and Internet Explorer.
Now go out and surf -- but be careful out there!
The virus which is reportedly the work of a Japanese gang, infects computers that connect to a Winni, a popular file-sharing site in Japan that claims up to 200 million users, and enables the download of an illegal game file. Once users download the infected file, the program takes a screenshot of the the sites they have visited online, often including sites that users wouldn't want their spouses, family, friends and employers learning about; and puts it online under their name.
If the user doesn't pay $15 U.S. immediately, the file will go live online and eventually be picked up by Google and incorporated into search results. With more employers turning to Google for a look at job candidates, this type of information could be a deal breaker if you've been surfing the seedier side of the Web.
In the instance of the Kenzero virus, the BBC reports that 5,500 individuals have already admitted to being a victim of the virus, which was distributed in a target-rich environment. The Winni file-sharing site is known for, amongst other file types, pornographic material. Combine the potential for embarrassment with the relatively low ransom and the virus-writing gang has the potential to make a significant amount of money (and gather credit card details as well).
The easiest way to avoid viruses like this is to avoid downloading copyrighted material illegally. In addition, you should also be sure to have an up-to-date antivirus program like AVG Free or the reputation-checking Norton 360, to keep you protected from viruses that make their way to your computer. If you do become the victim of a ransom-ware virus, don't give the criminal your credit card number, unless you want that information sold to the highest bidder.
While you're at it you should look at using your browser's private browsing mode when you are visiting sites that you don't want to share with other users of your computers, or in this case the world. In private browsing mode, the browser doesn't store information about the sites you visit. Here's how to turn on private browsing in Firefox, Google Chrome, Safari and Internet Explorer.
Now go out and surf -- but be careful out there!
Never Say THIS on Facebook or Twitter
The most dangerous thing you can post to your Facebook page or Twitter account is information about where you're going when you are not at home.
By telling the world you are on vacation in the Bahamas, or even just eating at your favorite local restaurant, you're letting potential thieves know that you're not at home.
Financial writers Ken and Daria Dolan warn that how you use Facebook and Twitter can be hazardous to your wealth!
"Burglars are fond of your constant updates," the Dolans told AOL. "Would you stand up in the middle of a crowd of strangers and announce that you're leaving on vacation for three days and then tell everyone your address? Of course not, but that's exactly what you are doing if you share such information online."
They cite the case of an Arizona man who told his 2,000 Twitter followers that he was leaving town. When he returned, he found his home had been burglarized and video equipment, worth thousands of dollars, had been stolen. "Even saying you are running to the mall, going out to dinner...is too much information," the Dolans explained to AOL.
One Web site recently found itself in the news for bringing attention to the problem. The site pleaserobme.com was designed to show how easy it is for anyone to sift through Twitter updates for a "feed" of people's current locations. The recent buzz caused confusion, because of course the site was not intended to give criminals the keys to your home. But it did achieve its goal of bringing much-needed attention to the potential danger.
Some insurance companies are catching on.
Legal & General Insurance in New England says Facebook and Twitter users could be hit with higher homeowner's insurance premiums. Why? All that blabbing about activities away from home means they face a higher risk of burglary.
The company thinks burglars are actually "shopping" for victims on social media sites, looking not only for an indication you're not at home, but also photos of your home and valuables. That cute picture of your son hugging the dog? A burglar is looking in the background, eyeing your big-screen TV and new stereo system.
And it's not just adults. Teenagers are even more likely to post personal information, so Legal & General has warned that parents who aren't even online themselves could face higher homeowner's insurance premiums if their children are online.
By telling the world you are on vacation in the Bahamas, or even just eating at your favorite local restaurant, you're letting potential thieves know that you're not at home.
Financial writers Ken and Daria Dolan warn that how you use Facebook and Twitter can be hazardous to your wealth!
"Burglars are fond of your constant updates," the Dolans told AOL. "Would you stand up in the middle of a crowd of strangers and announce that you're leaving on vacation for three days and then tell everyone your address? Of course not, but that's exactly what you are doing if you share such information online."
They cite the case of an Arizona man who told his 2,000 Twitter followers that he was leaving town. When he returned, he found his home had been burglarized and video equipment, worth thousands of dollars, had been stolen. "Even saying you are running to the mall, going out to dinner...is too much information," the Dolans explained to AOL.
One Web site recently found itself in the news for bringing attention to the problem. The site pleaserobme.com was designed to show how easy it is for anyone to sift through Twitter updates for a "feed" of people's current locations. The recent buzz caused confusion, because of course the site was not intended to give criminals the keys to your home. But it did achieve its goal of bringing much-needed attention to the potential danger.
Some insurance companies are catching on.
Legal & General Insurance in New England says Facebook and Twitter users could be hit with higher homeowner's insurance premiums. Why? All that blabbing about activities away from home means they face a higher risk of burglary.
The company thinks burglars are actually "shopping" for victims on social media sites, looking not only for an indication you're not at home, but also photos of your home and valuables. That cute picture of your son hugging the dog? A burglar is looking in the background, eyeing your big-screen TV and new stereo system.
And it's not just adults. Teenagers are even more likely to post personal information, so Legal & General has warned that parents who aren't even online themselves could face higher homeowner's insurance premiums if their children are online.
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