Be Suspicious About Unsolicited E-mails

Online, March 29, 2011 (Newswire.com) - Online identity theft (http://www.lifelockpromotioncode.net) is a terrible problem that affects millions of Americans each year. Any time you log onto your computer, you may be vulnerable to attack from a hacker, even if you use a firewall. Learning how to protect yourself when working and shopping online will lessen your chances of becoming a victim.

Hackers can obtain your information in several ways. One of the most popular is phishing (http://www.lifelockpromotioncode.net/blog). Phishers send out e-mails that look just like what you might receive from a bank or credit card company. The e-mails ask you to reveal your passwords and other personal information.

Consumers who don't use firewalls on their computers are at a much greater risk from hackers. Without one, a hacker can access your computer from a remote location and retrieve your stored password and account information. With that information, he can use your credit cards and arrange for bank transfers.

Be cautious and suspicious if you receive e-mails regarding your bank or credit card accounts. No matter how official the e-mail appears, don't click on links provided there. Instead, visit the company's Web site using a link you know is safe, or call the company directly if there is a problem with your account.

Download updates to your computer on a regular basis. These updates often contain security updates that will keep your computer from being exploited. Make your password a combination of letters and numbers, and don't use any obvious words or letter strings.

Be sure to only shop from your home computer, after you've installed a firewall. Don't shop using public computers of Wi-Fi. And don't shop on a site unless it is secure and you see "https" in the URL.

You should check your credit report, bank and credit card statements often, and call the company if you find an entry that is fraudulent or in error.

Take every step you can to be safe, online and off. You'll protect your identity and your credit.