The Internet - truly revolutionizing - truly a risk for internet identity theft!

Literally not a day goes by when you don't hear about another internet identity theft story involving some hacker breaking in and stealing customer, student or employee records and instantly making thousands of people (and in some cases millions) vulnerable. It could be you. In fact it probably has been you - you just haven't been alerted to it yet since the average time it takes to learn of a breach is twelve months.

This page is a comprehensive listing of the various kinds of internet identity theft. Click on any topic to discover more about each type of vulnerability and to get recommendations on proven solutions on how to avoid the internet security holes that can lead to the devastation of your financial or social life.

Computer Identity Theft - Threats include viruses, spyware, hacker break-ins and keystroke loggers just to name a few.

Web Browser Security - Threats include pharming, spoofing, drive-by downloads, etc.

Web Surfing - Threats include tracking the sites you visit, logging your IP (your unique computer identifier on the internet to establish your location/identity) and lack of search engine privacy.

Wireless Internet Connection - Threats include unwittingly making available your home or home office's network to your neighbors and hackers and the dangers that entails.

Email Security - Threats include spam (which is not just annoying but also a security concern), phishing scams, viruses, and the lack of privacy and security.

Internet Cafes & Wi-Fi Hotspots - Threats include utilizing an infected computer, Evil Twin wireless networks and complete lack of privacy.

Online Security Threats & Kids - Threats include collection of minor's personal information and possible impersonation as well as the distribution of viruses, spyware and other malware via social networking sites and poor safety practices.

Back-up your files! Enough can't be said about the importance of backing up critical files. If you don't want to do a complete back-up or use back-up software, at the very least, create a "critical files" directory where you can simply drag and drop that folder to a CD or DVD. Seems like a small hassle now, but a huge life saver later.

Use legitimate software. Ethical issues aside, using pirated software contributes to security breaches - only use software from reliable vendors and check for security patch updates.

Broadband connections. If you are using broadband (DSL, Cable, T-1) to connect to the internet instead of dial-up, know that broadband is more vulnerable to hackers because of it's "always on" feature. Broadband users need to be extra diligent about using protective software for their PC. Also, use the "standby" or "sleep" mode when not actively using your computer for short periods of time. And do a complete shut down at night.

The importance of passwords. In case you missed this section of ITPME's website, revisit the resource page - and scroll to item #6 to learn about creating strong passwords and then change them often!

Job hunting online. Avoid posting too much contact or personal information when searching for a job. Also create an email address for
job hunting purposes only. Beware of phony job ads posted on legitimate job sites - they are designed to lure you into giving up your personal information. Additionally, be cautious about being contacted by a "recruiter". Scammers often look for their next victim from posted resumes or personal websites.

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