“Old” Malware Attacks Rising Significantly

Many of the most significant growth trends from previous three quarters actually went into remission, while older types of attacks and what can only be called “retro-malware” experienced significant new growth.

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/06/29/old-malware-attacks-rising-significantly/

Who the Heck is This Credit Card Charge From?

If you travel as much as I do and use your credit card for every purchase from apples to zebras, you know it's rare to recognize the name of a merchant listed on your credit card statement. For example, you may go to a restaurant by the name of Dave's Bar and Grill and get a charge on your card a day later from Smith Enterprises--and you know you didn't buy anything from a Mr. Smith.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/robert-siciliano/who-the-heck-is-this-cred_b_3516390.html

Why it’s Critical to Protect Data on Digital Devices

When devices are lost or hacked and your data is exposed, not only is this a pain to deal with, but you could become a victim of identity theft. Not only do victims of identity theft suffer loss of time but they also lose money that may not be able to be recovered .

http://blogs.mcafee.com/consumer/critical-to-protect-data

Beware of Unknown Credit Card Subscriptions

The sales industry is fascinating. When it's done well, you receive great value and both parties leave the transaction feeling happy. But the tactics some merchants use are downright manipulative and often veer into illegal territory.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/robert-siciliano/beware-of-unknown-credit_b_3305020.html

Home Invader: ‘I Have Torn Apart Families and Ruined Lives’

Home invasions are the nastiest of all burglaries. They usually involve some type of force, and there is often a weapon involved. In this one particularly brutal and deadly home invasion, the perpetrator and his cohorts used a machete.

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/06/25/home-invader-i-have-torn-apart-families-and-ruined-lives/

Cyberattacks on the rise as credit, debit card numbers become commodities

Small businesses "need to come to grips with the fact that they could lose a lot more than just data," said Robert Siciliano, online security expert for McAfee, in an email. "Their reputations are at stake, and their customers will lose confidence in their abilities to provide a safe haven for their data."

http://www.theolympian.com/2013/06/24/2597163/cyberattacks-on-the-rise-as-credit.html

Facebook Security Bug Exposes Account Information of 6 Million Users

Up to six million Facebook users' personal e-mail addresses and phone numbers have been exposed, and not through a hack.

http://gma.yahoo.com/facebook-security-bug-exposes-account-information-6-million-232313626--abc-news-topstories.html

Why it’s Critical to Protect Data on Digital Devices

When devices are lost or hacked and your data is exposed, not only is this a pain to deal with, but you could become a victim of identity theft.

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/06/23/why-its-critical-to-protect-data-on-digital-devices/

When caller ID gets spoofed

Ed Stoecker's brief, unintended and unhappy stint as a telemarketer occurred recently when he spent several days receiving angry calls from people who didn't appreciate his bothering them.

http://articles.latimes.com/2013/jun/20/business/la-fi-lazarus-20130621

Facebook Security Bug Exposes Account Information of 6 Million Users

Up to six million Facebook users' personal e-mail addresses and phone numbers have been exposed, and not through a hack.

http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/facebook-security-bug-exposes-account-information-million-users/story?id=19460435#.Ucez5fkm1XZ

6 Tips for Apartment Security

According to the National Crime Prevention Council, apartments have an 85 percent greater chance of being burglarized than a single-family homeowner or rental property.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/robert-siciliano/6-tips-for-apartment-secu_b_3472153.html

Did the Bling Ring Make Celebrities Less Clueless About Home Security?

Vulture turned to Robert Siciliano, an often-quoted expert on personal and home security who paid close attention to the audacious thefts that inspired Coppola’s film.

http://www.vulture.com/2013/06/hollywood-safer-after-the-bling-ring.html

5 Mobile Security Tips

Cybercrime is one of the most lucrative illegal businesses of our time, and it shows no signs of slowing down. Over the last decade, cybercriminals have developed new and increasingly sophisticated ways of capitalizing on the explo­sion of Internet users, and they face little danger of being caught. Meanwhile, consumers are con­fronted with greater risks to their money and information each year.

http://blogs.mcafee.com/consumer/5-mobile-security-tips

Do You Know What Your Kids Are Hiding?

Many of you as parents may think, “not much” when asked this question. But in reality, it’s probably a lot more than you think. So it should come as no surprise to anyone that McAfee’s 2013 study, Digital Deception:

http://blogs.mcafee.com/consumer/digital-divide

Cyberattacks on the rise as credit, debit card numbers become commodities

It's a sad fact of modern American consumer life. Every time we swipe a piece of plastic at a gas station, grocery store or anywhere else, we're vulnerable to cyberpickpockets. Read more here: http://www.sacbee.com/2013/06/17/5504045/cyberattacks-on-the-rise-as-credit.html#storylink=cpy

http://www.sacbee.com/2013/06/17/5504045/cyberattacks-on-the-rise-as-credit.html

Shred Alert

Right now there are more than 150,000 used smartphones, tablets and laptops for sale on eBay. And in the hands of a hacker, any number of them could reveal crucial data about a former owner--even after it's been deleted. Read more: http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,2144570,00.html#ixzz2WivHo6EX

http://www.time.com/time/subscriber/article/0,33009,2144570,00.html

5 Mobile Security Tips

Cybercrime is one of the most lucrative illegal businesses of our time, and it shows no signs of slowing down. Over the last decade, cybercriminals have developed new and increasingly sophisticated ways of capitalizing on the explo­sion of Internet users, and they face little danger of being caught. Meanwhile, consumers are con­fronted with greater risks to their money and information each year.

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/06/14/5-mobile-security-tips/

The government is watching you

What you spend. Where you eat. Who you call. Where you travel. What you Google. What you give to charity.

http://www.mcclatchydc.com/2013/06/13/193487/the-government-is-watching.html#Finance

Digital Divide Between Parents and Kids?

“This is ultimately leading to their kids getting in trouble,” said McAfee Online Security Expert Robert Siciliano. “Our study showed that while 86 percent of youth believe that social sites are safe, they continue to post personal information.”

http://nj1015.com/digital-divide-between-parents-and-kids-audio/

New Englanders react to NSA surveillance

However, Robert Siciliano, CEO of the local company ID Theft Security, is not sure if he buys that.

http://www.necn.com/06/07/13/New-Englanders-react-to-NSA-surveillance/landing_politics.html?blockID=843307

Banks Sues Client Over Wire Fraud

Banks usually have relatively secure systems to maintain and protect online banking activities. They've spent billions to ensure that criminal hackers don't liquidate all of our accounts. But criminals spend all their time seeking vulnerabilities and often find some way to make a fraudulent withdrawal.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/robert-siciliano/banks-sues-client-over-wi_b_3396401.html

How To Solve Tech Generation Differences

But like I have to tell you, beyond the usual dress, music and manners misunderstandings we have with our kids and grandkids, technology has opened a new fissure in the ever-widening chasm between generations.

http://tech.lifegoesstrong.com/article/how-solve-tech-generation-differences

Do You Know What Your Kids Are Hiding?

Many of you as parents may think, “not much” when asked this question. But in reality, it’s probably a lot more than you think. So it should come as no surprise to anyone that McAfee’s 2013 study, Digital Deception: Exploring the Online Disconnect between Parents and Kids, which examines the online habits and interests of tweens, teens, and young adults, finds there is a significant disconnect between what they do online and what their parents believe they do.

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/06/12/do-you-know-what-your-kids-are-hiding/

Gold Farming A Chinese Full Time Job

Gold farmers play massive multiplayer online games, not for fun, but to accumulate virtual currency, or “gold,” which can then be sold to other players, despite the fact that most game operators explicitly ban the exchange of in-game currency for cash

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/06/11/gold-farming-a-chinese-full-time-job/

Your Strong Password Isn’t so Strong

Banks rely on usernames and passwords as a layer of protection and authentication to prevent criminals from accessing your accounts. However researchers now show that your password—even though it may be a relatively “strong” one, might not be strong enough.

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/06/09/your-strong-password-isnt-so-strong/

Classifieds Ripe For Rental Fraud

I once listed a property for rent on Craigslist that scammers ended up relisting for a third of , my asking price. People would pull into my driveway and knock on my door while the listing was active and even after the listing I posted had expired too.

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/06/07/classifieds-ripe-for-rental-fraud/

6 Tips for Apartment Security

According to the National Crime Prevention Council, apartments have an 85 percent greater chance of being burglarized than a single-family homeowner or rental property.

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/06/07/6-tips-for-apartment-security/

How Your Smartphone Will Identify You Privately

Banks rely on usernames and passwords as a layer of protection and authentication to prevent criminals from accessing your accounts. However researchers now show that your password—even though it may be a relatively “strong” one, might not be strong enough.

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/06/05/how-your-smartphone-will-identify-you-privately/

8 Ways to Avoid Contractor Fraud

Need a new roof, home security system, kitchen, driveway or furnace? At some point, you will. And when you do, you’ll search out reputable contractors who offer fair pricing—via the classified section of the local paper, an online search, Craigslist, or by making some calls to friends and family who know someone. Each resource provides its own set of pros and cons, and scammers use every resource.

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/06/05/8-ways-to-avoid-contractor-fraud/

Craigslist Robbery By Appointment | @BHSCcom

http://besthomesecuritycompanys.com/2013/craigslist-robbery-by-appointment-2

Banks Sues Client Over Wire Fraud

Banks usually have relatively secure systems to maintain and protect online banking activities. They’ve spent billions to ensure that criminal hackers don’t liquidate all of our accounts. But criminals spend all their time seeking vulnerabilities and often find some way to make a fraudulent withdrawal.

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/06/04/banks-sues-client-over-wire-fraud/

What are your top cybersecurity concerns?

Every week when writing stories for HackSurfer, I speak to various experts in the areas of cybercrime and cybersecurity The people are wide-ranging – from software experts to executives to lawyers – and their concerns are often just as widespread. - See more at: http://hacksurfer.com/amplifications/49#sthash.4UGX0LGq.dpuf

http://hacksurfer.com/amplifications/49

Twitter Hacking Prompts 2 Factor Authentication

Twitter Hacking Prompts 2 Factor Authentication

https://twitter.com/RobertSiciliano/status/340877881578250241

Hacking Point of Sale System

In 2007 T.J. Maxx was hacked, and the news spread far and wide. It was declared the largest hack ever with data having been stolen from more than 45 million credit and debit cards. Many people leery of exposing their credit card information to the online shopping boom were surprised to find that shopping in the physical world could be just as dangerous. Six years later point of sale hacks continue – Subway being the most notable of late – but now they’re common place. - See more at: http://hacksurfer.com/amplifications/41#sthash.4R1RpogB.dpuf

http://hacksurfer.com/amplifications/41#

Phising Expedition Cyber Heists Expose Flawed Password System

Phising Expedition Cyber Heists Expose Flawed Password System

http://www.foxbusiness.com/technology/2013/05/22/phising-expedition-cyber-heists-expose-flawed-password-system/

At Last Twitter Beefs Up Security With Two-Factor Verification

Burger King's account was hacked to look like McDonald's. Then there was Jeep's account, which sent out plenty of nonbrand-friendly language. And finally, and more seriously, the the Associated Press' account was taken over by hackers who told the media outlet's millions of followers that bombs had exploded at the White House.

http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/twitter-beefs-security-factor-verification/story?id=19235783#.UZ1mUrUm2So

What is a mobile wallet?

Some say there will be a day when the wallet you carry in your pocket or purse will become obsolete. Technology is evolving in a way that will likely eliminate all our credit cards, store cards, and IDs. We will use our mobile devices as our primary means of commerce and identification. The technology behind mobile wallet combines near field communications (NFC) and applications. Depending on which is used, a user might need to wave their phone near a reader to make a payment or verify identification, or they may open an app and simply click a button.

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/05/30/what-is-a-mobile-wallet-2/

Florida Retirees Frequent Identity Theft Targets

A lot of Floridians are retirees who spend their days around the pool or at the beach. The warmer weather attacks both golden agers and unfortunately identity thieves. Criminals know that retirees have money in the bank, retirement accounts and credit cards with high limits.

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/05/29/florida-retirees-frequent-identity-theft-targets/

Fight or Flight: What Would You Do?

First, I’m a big believer in running away from a predator. If some whack job breaks into your home and wants to hurt you, RUN out the nearest door. But if you are backed into a corner or a loved one needs protecting, then you may have to fight.

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/05/29/fight-or-flight-what-would-you-do/

Weak Passwords Can Cost You Everything

If your computer or mobile was hacked or your passwords were cracked and your data was lost or if all the websites you have an account with were hacked and all that information was the hands of a criminal, how devastated will you be?

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/05/28/weak-passwords-can-cost-you-everything/

Digital Security Improves Our Lives

Our lives depend on the convenience of digital and require the security behind the scenes. Take contactless payment for example. Contactless payments are a faster, more convenient alternative to cash when making small purchases at fast food restaurants, convenience stores, and transport terminals. They are also ideal for remote or unattended payment situations, such as vending machines, road tolls, or parking meters.

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/05/28/digital-security-improves-our-lives/

How do I shop with my mobile securely?

To stay safe while mobile shopping: Go big. Do your online business with major retailers, or those you already know, like, and trust. The chances of a major online retailer stiffing you, or of their database being compromised, are slimmer than those of an unknown.

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/05/28/how-do-i-shop-with-my-mobile-securely-2/

Identity Theft Rings Focus On Loans and Credit Cards

Identity theft rings are in every state, victimizing approximately 10 million people a year. In Wycoff NJ, 11 men and women were arrested on charges of stealing identities to open credit cards in an alleged scheme that is believed to have defrauded more than 70 victims.

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/05/26/identity-theft-rings-focus-on-loans-and-credit-cards/

Why Your Employer Needs Social in the Workplace

Social media is the fifth form of mainstream media. It encompasses all media, making it the king of all media. At this point, most people know how to use social media and how to navigate the various websites. But many employers are still on the fence.

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/05/16/why-your-employer-needs-social-in-the-workplace/

What Does it Mean to Have a Connected Home?

The internet-connected TV, PC, mobile and tablet are all connected to the home in ways like never before. All of these appliances are talking to one another in various ways. For example, many of us share media, display photos on various devices, or use different devices remotely for home security, HVAC control, access control, and on/off administration of various devices.

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/05/24/what-does-it-mean-to-have-a-connected-home/

Remembering John Shepherd-Barron in the age of the million-dollar ATM heist

When Scottish inventor John Shepherd-Barron came up with the idea for a workable cash machine way back in the 1960s while taking a bath, he had no way of knowing then that his invention, the ancestor of today's ATM, would one-day take center stage in an audacious banking heist allegedly involving a gang of international cybercriminals stealing millions of dollars.

http://www.atmmarketplace.com/article/213595/Remembering-John-Shepherd-Barron-in-the-age-of-the-million-dollar-ATM-heist

10 Cheap Ways to Secure Your Home

Consulting: Call a locksmith or a police officer for some basic tips on home security. Community programs in which law enforcement inspects a property is a cost-effective way to secure your home.

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/05/24/10-cheap-ways-to-secure-your-home/

Resolve to Dissolve Credit Card Billing Errors

Like death and taxes, credit card disputes are inevitable. The good news is, whenever there is a credit card dispute that results from a billing error, the credit card company often takes the side of the cardholder until getting a counter argument from the merchant.

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/05/23/resolve-to-dissolve-credit-card-billing-errors/

What is mCommerce and how do you keep transactions safe?

mCommerce (or M-commerce) is using a mobile phone to make purchases. Like credit card transactions, your card/device can be either present or not present. In other words, “present” might mean your mobile is equipped with an application that you use to make a purchase in person, such as to buy a cup of coffee or a train ticket.

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/05/23/what-is-mcommerce-and-how-do-you-keep-transactions-safe-3/

Craigslist Robbery By Appointment

It’s springtime. You put an ad on Craigslist to get rid of some things, clean out your garage and make a few bucks while you are at it. Maybe you have an old diamond ring to sell. Or that truck you are driving isn’t what it used to be, so you decide it’s time to sell.

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/05/22/craigslist-robbery-by-appointment/

Security Benefits of EMV for Consumers

Major banks and retailers are now pushing very hard to make EMV the new standard in the United States. Visa announced plans “to accelerate the migration to contact chip and contactless EMV chip technology in the U.S. The adoption of dual-interface chip technology will help prepare the U.S. payment infrastructure for the arrival of Near Field Communication (NFC)-based mobile payments by building the necessary infrastructure to accept and process chip transactions.”

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/05/21/security-benefits-of-emv-for-consumers/

How do I protect mobile devices while traveling?

Traveling for business or pleasure can be hectic, unnerving, and often draining. It’s not uncommon to hear somebody say I need a vacation after returning from theirvacation. When traveling, the last thing you need to worry about ishaving your critical possessions ripped off.So here are some things to consider:

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/05/21/how-do-i-protect-mobile-devices-while-traveling-2/

I’ll Have an App with That

Cash may be king—but not if you like free coffee and sandwiches from Starbucks. Today, if you want rewards, points, discounts or anything free, mobile payment is the way to go. My dad is a perfect example of how and why this is.

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/05/19/ill-have-an-app-with-that/

Why Your Employer Needs Social in the Workplace

Social media is the fifth form of mainstream media. It encompasses all media, making it the king of all media. At this point, most people know how to use social media and how to navigate the various websites. But many employers are still on the fence.

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/05/16/why-your-employer-needs-social-in-the-workplace/

Beware of Unknown Credit Card Subscriptions

The sales industry is fascinating. When it’s done well, you receive great value and both parties leave the transaction feeling happy. But the tactics some merchants use are downright manipulative and often veer into illegal territory.

http://robertsiciliano.com/blog/2013/05/16/beware-of-unknown-credit-card-subscriptions/