Online Protections for Identity Theft and More December 3rd, 2009
Portia Krebs

In today’s data-driven world, identity fraud is an unfortunate reality.  Fortunately, web tools and educational resources can help consumers build a virtual fortress around their identities.

Where should you begin when it comes to online safety?  Maintaining software to protect against spyware, viruses, spam, and more is a great place to start.  AT&T and Verizon both offer Internet Security Suites that help protect e-mail by automatically detecting and removing viruses and worms before the e-mail is delivered to the computer.

Given that 9.9 million Americans were victims of identity theft in 2008, it’s no surprise that new tools are being introduced to provide a higher level of protection.  For example, Safe Central confirms the authenticity of sites, and offers a secure browser to use when banking or shopping online.  Shop Shield touts software that creates a “digital fortress” around your personal information and helps defend against keyloggers who record an individual’s keystrokes on the computer.  LifeLock and CardCops sweep the Internet and chat rooms and warn customers if their data is spotted.  And StolenIDsearch.com maintains a database of stolen records gathered by informants, and will generically let an individual know what relevant personal information it contains.

Want to learn more about online safety?  Many of today’s communications providers share a wealth of facts and tips on their websites.  For instance, check out AT&T and Verizon’s sites for an array of safety information. With videos featuring Miss America discussing “Internet Safety 101” and “Cyberbullying,” H&B Communications website is another useful resource.  And Onguardonline provides more practical tips from the federal government and the tech industry to help consumers guard against Internet fraud.

With so many exciting broadband-powered opportunities, it pays to play it safe on the Internet – and everything you need to get knowledgeable and protected is easily accessible online.

This entry was posted on Thursday, December 3rd, 2009 at 4:03 pm and is filed under Benefits of Broadband. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.