Ask the Expert

May 2005

Staying Safe in Cyber-Space

These tips will keep you a step ahead of the computer hackers and thieves.

What a treasure trove the Internet represents for seniors looking to "surf" for great travel deals, send e-mail to friends, or bank online. The downside of this new access is that while you’re surfing online or working on your e-mail, hackers and crooks can vandalize your computer—even steal your financial or other personal information—unless you stay vigilant.

How To Fight Back:

Fortunately, there's a lot you can do to thwart those looking to wreak havoc with your computer (or worse). Some tips from the security experts at the Federal Trade Commission (FTC):

Make sure your passwords are at least eight characters long and (if practical) contain a combination of letters and numbers or symbols. Avoid common words: some hackers use programs that can try every word in the dictionary. Don't use your personal information, your login name, or adjacent keys on the keyboard (QWERTY) as passwords—and don't share your passwords online or over the phone.

• Protect yourself from computer viruses by installing anti-virus software. You can download anti-virus software from the Web sites of software companies or buy it in retail stores. Just as important: be sure to update your virus protection software regularly (going to the Web site of your software provider is usually easiest), because determined hackers develop new viruses every week.
• Establish a computer firewall, using software or hardware, especially if you use a high-speed Internet service. A properly configured firewall makes it tougher for hackers to locate your computer. Firewalls are also designed to prevent hackers from getting into your programs and files. Some recently released operating system software and some hardware devices come with a built-in firewall. Most new firewalls block outgoing information as well as incoming files. That stops hackers from planting programs called spyware that cause your computer to send out your personal information without your approval.
• Don’t open unknown files attached to an e-mail unless you are expecting it or know what it contains. If you send an attachment, type a message explaining what it is. Never forward any e-mail warning about a new virus. It may be a hoax and could be used to spread a virus.
• If you think you've been hacked or infected by a virus, e-mail a report of the incident to your Internet provider and the hacker's Internet provider, if you can tell what it is, as well as your software vendor.

To learn more, visit the FTC's Web site or call toll-free 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357).

—Doug Terwilliger, NEA Member Benefits

Fraud Alert

Is someone "phishing" for a way to steal your personal information and defraud you?

Computer security experts use the term phishing to describe an increasingly common scam. You receive a legitimate-looking e-mail from a bank or other business stating that the firm needs information to update your records. Thee-mails often contain a link to a company Web site that appears authentic.

Don't take the bait. Legitimate businesses would not ask for your personal information in an e-mail. What thieves seek is enough information about you to empty your bank account or secure credit cards in your name, which they then run up with purchases that mar your credit rating. 

If you're in doubt, call the company up, but don't reply to the e-mail, click on any attachment, or trust any phone number contained in the message.

Another tip: make sure that when you order products online, the Web site you're using is secure. Check the Web address in your browser—it should be https:// rather than just http://.

For more, go to
www.antiphishing.org.