All Articles

Protect Your Computer

• 7 Practices for Computer Security
  Protect your personal information. It's valuable. Know who you're dealing with. Use security software that updates automatically. Keep your operating system and Web browser up-to-date, and learn about their security features. Keep your passwords safe, secure, and strong. Back up important files. Learn what to do in an e-mergency. Access to information and entertainment, credit and financial... Read More
• Botnets, Hackers and SPAM (OH MY!)
  Hackers and spammers may be using your computer right now. They invade secretly and hide software to get access to the information on your computer, including your email program. Once on your computer, they can spy on your Internet surfing, steal your personal information, and use your computer to send spam — potentially offensive or illegal — to other computers without your knowledge. Computers that are taken... Read More
• Computer Disposal
  Quick Facts Computers often hold all kinds of personal and financial information. If you’re getting rid of your old computer, there are things to do before you log off for the last time so your hard drive doesn’t become a 21st century treasure chest for identity thieves and information pirates. Save important files on an external storage device – for example, a USB drive, a CDRom, or an external hard... Read More
• Email Scams
  Quick Facts Some email users have lost money to bogus offers that arrived as spam in their in-box. Con artists are very cunning; they know how to make their claims seem legitimate. Some spam messages ask for your business, others invite you to a website with a detailed pitch. Either way, these tips can help you avoid spam scams: Protect your personal information. Share credit card or other personal information... Read More
• Email Security
  Important Email Security Tips: Never respond to an email asking for personal or financial information such as your email address, password, Social Security Number, etc. (CenturyLink, PayPal, and your bank are examples of companies that would never ask for personal information in an email.) Don't open an email or attachment from someone you do not know or trust. Never click on a link or executable file within an email... Read More
• Freeware, Adware or Spyware? What's the Difference?
  Over the years that software has become a commodity, the various subcategories to denote its functionality have increased rapidly. While these subcategories are an attempt to clarify matters, there is often some confusion. This article attempts to draw a better understanding of three terms, freeware, adware and spyware. Freeware Typically there is some overlap between these three terms, but each has its distinctive... Read More
• Laptop Security
  Quick Facts Thinking of taking your laptop on the road? It's a great way to work and stay in touch when you're out and about, but you need to take some steps to keep your laptop safe – and in your possession. Here are some things you can do to keep track of your laptop: Treat it like cash. Get it out of the car…don't ever leave it behind. Keep it locked…use a security cable. Keep it off the floor…or... Read More
• Malware
  Quick Facts Malware, short for "malicious software," includes viruses and spyware to steal personal information, send spam, and commit fraud. Criminals create appealing websites, desirable downloads, and compelling stories to lure you to links that will download malware – especially on computers that don't use adequate security software. But you can minimize the havoc that malware can wreak and reclaim your... Read More
• Malware Increases Faster Than Ever
  Internet malware is growing at a faster rate than ever before. That's the message from CenturyLink's security partner, F-Secure Security Lab, which is analyzing and responding to Internet threats around the clock, 365 days a year. In addition to the explosion of growth, there is also clear evidence of the increasing sophistication of malware, as well as the professionalism of the criminals who are creating it. More... Read More
• Operating System and Security Software
  Every online experience is collaboration between several applications on a users PC and those on a computer or collection of computers remotely, generally completely unnoticed by the individual visiting the website or online service. Unfortunately, every layer of software contributing this experience provides an opportunity for an attacker. Most reputable websites and service providers go to great lengths to maintain... Read More
• P2P Security
  Quick Facts Peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing allows users to share files online through an informal network of computers running the same software. File-sharing can give you access to a wealth of information, but it also has a number of risks. You could download copyright-protected material, pornography, or viruses without meaning to. Or you could mistakenly allow other people to copy files you don't mean to share. If... Read More
• Phishing
  Quick Facts Phishing is a scam where Internet fraudsters send spam or pop-up messages to lure personal and financial information from unsuspecting victims. To avoid getting hooked: Don't reply to email or pop-up messages that ask for personal or financial information, and don't click on links in the message. Don't cut and paste a link from the message into your Web browser — phishers can make links look... Read More
• Spyware
  Quick Facts Spyware is software installed on your computer without your consent to monitor or control your computer use. Clues that spyware is on a computer may include a barrage of pop-ups, a browser that takes you to sites you don't want, unexpected toolbars or icons on your computer screen, keys that don't work, random error messages, and sluggish performance when opening programs or saving files. In some cases,... Read More

Protect Yourself

• 7 Practices for Computer Security
  Protect your personal information. It's valuable. Know who you're dealing with. Use security software that updates automatically. Keep your operating system and Web browser up-to-date, and learn about their security features. Keep your passwords safe, secure, and strong. Back up important files. Learn what to do in an e-mergency. Access to information and entertainment, credit and financial... Read More
• Be Smart, Be Safe
  What is social engineering? Social engineering describes a series of techniques used to trick people into performing actions or giving up confidential information. While these techniques share many commonalities with the repertoire of an ordinary con man, social engineering is usually confined to online fraud where the author of the scam very rarely comes in touch with the victim of his assault. Much of social engineering's... Read More
• Beware of These Common Scams
  419 scam The basic theme behind a 419 scam (named after the relevant section of the Nigerian Criminal Code) is that a large amount of money has been located, and the person in question requires assistance in obtaining the money. The victim, motivated by greed agrees to assist in freeing up the money for a percentage of the profits. Indeed, the advanced fee aspect is at the heart of the scam, as is the extreme confidentiality... Read More
• Botnets, Hackers and SPAM (OH MY!)
  Hackers and spammers may be using your computer right now. They invade secretly and hide software to get access to the information on your computer, including your email program. Once on your computer, they can spy on your Internet surfing, steal your personal information, and use your computer to send spam — potentially offensive or illegal — to other computers without your knowledge. Computers that are taken... Read More
• Computer Disposal
  Quick Facts Computers often hold all kinds of personal and financial information. If you’re getting rid of your old computer, there are things to do before you log off for the last time so your hard drive doesn’t become a 21st century treasure chest for identity thieves and information pirates. Save important files on an external storage device – for example, a USB drive, a CDRom, or an external hard... Read More
• Cross-Border Scams
  Quick Facts While you're online: Know who you're dealing with. In any electronic transaction, independently confirm the other party's name, street address, and telephone number. Resist the urge to enter foreign lotteries. These solicitations are phony and illegal. Delete requests that claim to be from foreign nationals asking you to help transfer their money through your bank account. They're fraudulent. Ignore... Read More
• Email Scams
  Quick Facts Some email users have lost money to bogus offers that arrived as spam in their in-box. Con artists are very cunning; they know how to make their claims seem legitimate. Some spam messages ask for your business, others invite you to a website with a detailed pitch. Either way, these tips can help you avoid spam scams: Protect your personal information. Share credit card or other personal information... Read More
• Email Security
  Important Email Security Tips: Never respond to an email asking for personal or financial information such as your email address, password, Social Security Number, etc. (CenturyLink, PayPal, and your bank are examples of companies that would never ask for personal information in an email.) Don't open an email or attachment from someone you do not know or trust. Never click on a link or executable file within an email... Read More
• Gaming and Associated Applications
  Online console games, interactive games and MMORPGs (Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games) all provide players the ability to interact with others in their favorite games. The addition of real-time multi-player interaction takes gaming to the next level and allows players to interact with others of similar interests. Most of the popular gaming companies go to great measures to provide players with a safe... Read More
• Identity Theft
  Quick Facts It's important to protect your personal information, and to take certain steps quickly to minimize the potential damage from identity theft if your information is accidentally disclosed or deliberately stolen: Place a "Fraud Alert" on your credit reports, and review those reports carefully. Notifying one of the three nationwide consumer reporting companies is sufficient. Close any accounts that... Read More
• Internet Auctions
  Quick Facts Thinking of bidding in an online auction, or selling some of your stuff? Internet auctions are a great resource for shoppers and sellers, but you need to watch out for some pitfalls. Here's how: Evaluate how soon you need to receive the item you're bidding on, and whether you can tolerate it being delivered late, or even not delivered. Many complaints about Internet auction fraud involve late shipments,... Read More
• Malware
  Quick Facts Malware, short for "malicious software," includes viruses and spyware to steal personal information, send spam, and commit fraud. Criminals create appealing websites, desirable downloads, and compelling stories to lure you to links that will download malware – especially on computers that don't use adequate security software. But you can minimize the havoc that malware can wreak and reclaim your... Read More
• More Enjoyment, Less Spam
  Fed up with spam? You’re not alone, so is everyone else. Spend a couple of days without checking email or emptying your junk mail folder, and you often return to an inbox bulging with irritating spam messages. The days when junk mail was just a passing annoyance are long gone. Last year about 80% of the world’s email traffic consisted of spam. The sheer volume of spam, as well as the sophistication used by spammers... Read More
• Online Investing
  Quick Facts The Internet allows investors to access account information 24/7, initiate securities transactions from virtually anywhere, and quickly and inexpensively research investment opportunities. But the Internet is not fail-safe. To invest wisely online: Protect your passwords for your online investment accounts. Keep passwords in a secure place, and don't share them on the Internet, over email, or on... Read More
• Online Shopping
  Quick Facts Shopping on the Internet can be economical, convenient, and no less safe than shopping in a store or by mail. To help keep your online shopping experience a safe one: Know who you're dealing with. Confirm the online seller's physical address and phone number in case you have questions or problems. Know exactly what you're buying. Read the seller's description of the product closely, especially... Read More
• Operating System and Security Software
  Every online experience is collaboration between several applications on a users PC and those on a computer or collection of computers remotely, generally completely unnoticed by the individual visiting the website or online service. Unfortunately, every layer of software contributing this experience provides an opportunity for an attacker. Most reputable websites and service providers go to great lengths to maintain... Read More
• Phishing
  Quick Facts Phishing is a scam where Internet fraudsters send spam or pop-up messages to lure personal and financial information from unsuspecting victims. To avoid getting hooked: Don't reply to email or pop-up messages that ask for personal or financial information, and don't click on links in the message. Don't cut and paste a link from the message into your Web browser — phishers can make links look... Read More
• Real-time Communication Platforms
  Even if you don't personally utilize Instant Messaging, Video Chat services, or some sort of chat applications on the web, you likely will not need to look far to find someone who does. If you have middle-school or above aged children in your home, it's highly likely that such services are used in your home. Some instant messaging platforms include AOL Instant Messenger, ICQ, Yahoo IM, MSN IM, Google chat, Skype,... Read More
• Safer Online Vacations
  Travel plans and the Internet were clearly made for each other. There’s no better way of researching different destinations, comparing prices, and contemplating delicious vacation alternatives than the Internet. Whether it’s a trekking adventure through the rainforest, a relaxing cruise, or a fly-drive vacation you are looking for, the Internet provides a wealth of information at your fingertips. Using the Internet... Read More
• Safer Social Networking
  Would you tell a complete stranger all about your family, work, love life, hobbies and interests? And give them some personal photos to look at too? Most people approached on the street would probably answer ‘no’ to the above questions. But on the Internet, that’s exactly what millions of us are doing on the hugely popular social networking sites and chat rooms. MySpace, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn and other... Read More
• Shopping Online – What Are the Risks?
  Online shopping is big business. According to one study, during the Christmas season, American shoppers buy approximately 25 percent of their holiday goods online. But with so many people now taking the step to shop online, online frauds like phishing are becoming as common. Internet shopping can be a safe and pleasant experience provided you take some basic precautions. Get ready for shopping action It’s your... Read More
• Social News, Blogging, and Discussion Forums
  Social news sites (more formally known as social bookmarking) until fairly recently have been the playground of techies and "geeks". Several sites have expanded their subject matter or made these offerings to more common interests. Many find some of these "bookmarking" sites quite useful and profitable. Digg, Slashdot, or Reddit would be examples of some of the larger, older sites that tailor to more technical users,... Read More
• Tips for Buyers
  Despite complaints of fraud, online auctions remain a fun, efficient, and relatively safe way to shop — if you act prudently. Here's how: Before Bidding Become familiar with the auction site. Never assume that the rules of one auction site apply to another. If the site offers a step-by-step tutorial on the bidding process, take it. It may save you frustration and disappointment later. Find out what protections... Read More
• Tips for Sellers
  Know Your Legal Obligations Under federal law, you're required to advertise your product or service and the terms of the sale honestly and accurately. You can't place "shill" bids on your item to boost the price or offer false testimonials about yourself in the comment section of Internet auction sites. You're prohibited from auctioning illegal goods; some auction sites have further prohibitions on sales of other... Read More
• Wellbeing in a Mobile World
  As a style statement and useful communication device, the mobile phone is perhaps the most sought-after gadget of our times. Whether used for keeping tabs on children or running a business, the mobile phone has made a huge difference in how we do things today. But our increasing dependence on the benefits of wireless communication has also come with a cost. If something goes wrong – like the phone is lost or it gets... Read More
• Wireless Security
  Quick Facts Wireless Internet access can offer convenience and mobility. But there are steps you should take to protect your wireless network and the computers on it. Use encryption to scramble communications over the network. If you have a choice, WiFi Protected Access (WPA) is stronger than Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP). Use anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a firewall. Most wireless routers... Read More
• Your Health Online
  Quick Facts Going online can be a convenient way to research health care products and find answers to health-related questions. But taking your health online also requires some extra investigative effort on your part. Know who’s on the other end. Before you hand over any personal or financial information, do some research to find out who you’re dealing with, and make sure the website is secure. Consider... Read More

Protect Your Children

• 7 Practices for Computer Security
  Protect your personal information. It's valuable. Know who you're dealing with. Use security software that updates automatically. Keep your operating system and Web browser up-to-date, and learn about their security features. Keep your passwords safe, secure, and strong. Back up important files. Learn what to do in an e-mergency. Access to information and entertainment, credit and financial... Read More
• Gaming and Associated Applications
  Online console games, interactive games and MMORPGs (Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games) all provide players the ability to interact with others in their favorite games. The addition of real-time multi-player interaction takes gaming to the next level and allows players to interact with others of similar interests. Most of the popular gaming companies go to great measures to provide players with a safe... Read More
• Kids’ Privacy
  Quick Facts Your kids’ personal information and privacy are valuable — to you, to them, and to marketers. Fortunately, there are ways you can safeguard that privacy when your kids are online. Check out sites your kids visit, and see what kind of information the sites ask for or allow kids to post. Talk to your child about the risks and benefits of disclosing certain information, especially in a public... Read More
• P2P Security
  Quick Facts Peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing allows users to share files online through an informal network of computers running the same software. File-sharing can give you access to a wealth of information, but it also has a number of risks. You could download copyright-protected material, pornography, or viruses without meaning to. Or you could mistakenly allow other people to copy files you don't mean to share. If... Read More
• Parenting the Digital Natives
  Today’s youth have grown up with the World Wide Web, and are the first generation of digital natives. They have a more accepting and open-minded relationship with the information technology that is rapidly reshaping the world, while the rest of us are usually playing catch-up trying to work out what is really going on. At its best, the Internet is a fantastic resource for learning, entertainment and communication. But... Read More
• Real-time Communication Platforms
  Even if you don't personally utilize Instant Messaging, Video Chat services, or some sort of chat applications on the web, you likely will not need to look far to find someone who does. If you have middle-school or above aged children in your home, it's highly likely that such services are used in your home. Some instant messaging platforms include AOL Instant Messenger, ICQ, Yahoo IM, MSN IM, Google chat, Skype,... Read More
• Safer Social Networking
  Would you tell a complete stranger all about your family, work, love life, hobbies and interests? And give them some personal photos to look at too? Most people approached on the street would probably answer ‘no’ to the above questions. But on the Internet, that’s exactly what millions of us are doing on the hugely popular social networking sites and chat rooms. MySpace, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn and other... Read More
• Safety Tips for Tweens and Teens
  Quick Facts While social networking sites can increase your circle of friends, they also can increase your exposure to people with less-than-friendly intentions. Here are some things you can do to socialize safely online: Think about how different sites work before deciding to join a site. Some sites allow only a defined community of users to access posted content; others allow anyone and everyone to view... Read More
• Social Networking Sites
  Quick Facts While social networking sites can increase a person's circle of friends, they also can increase exposure to people with less than friendly intentions. Here are tips for helping your kids use social networking sites safely: Help your kids understand what information should be private. Explain that kids should post only information that you – and they – are comfortable with others seeing. Use... Read More
• Social News, Blogging, and Discussion Forums
  Social news sites (more formally known as social bookmarking) until fairly recently have been the playground of techies and "geeks". Several sites have expanded their subject matter or made these offerings to more common interests. Many find some of these "bookmarking" sites quite useful and profitable. Digg, Slashdot, or Reddit would be examples of some of the larger, older sites that tailor to more technical users,... Read More
• Wellbeing in a Mobile World
  As a style statement and useful communication device, the mobile phone is perhaps the most sought-after gadget of our times. Whether used for keeping tabs on children or running a business, the mobile phone has made a huge difference in how we do things today. But our increasing dependence on the benefits of wireless communication has also come with a cost. If something goes wrong – like the phone is lost or it gets... Read More