One Step Ahead: Almanac Security Tips - 2013

Table of Contents (view all)

Spring Cleaning Your Office? Know What to Do with E-Waste
Keep Your Identity Safe When Filing Taxes This Year
Why use Penn+Box when Storing Data in the Cloud
Mobile Device Security - 3 Recommendations for Cloud Users (Hint: That's You!)
Be Aware of QR Code Risks
It’s Data Privacy Month: Update Your Facebook Privacy Settings and More
How Are You Celebrating Data Privacy Month?
Stay Secure while Working on Public Wi-Fi Networks
Protecting Your Finances During This Year's Holiday Shopping Season
Cloud and You
Security and Privacy Online Training & Tools
October: Free Secure Disposal of Paper and Electronics at Employee Resource Fair; NCSAM
Student Privacy - What Do I Need To Know? A FERPA Reminder
Top 10 Tips for Securing Your Smartphone or Tablet
Working Off Campus? Some Tips to Consider

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Tuesday, December 9, 2008 - Almanac Vol. 55, No. 15

Holiday Shopping, Credit Cards & Credit Reports: "Free" Isn't Always Free

Even as we hear of a “credit crunch” around the world, it’s likely that once again the holiday season will see Americans’ credit card balances reach their annual peak. Before going online or heading out to the malls, it’s worth pausing to consider some basic security measures when using credit cards:

• When shopping online, be sure that you’re using a “secure server” site (check for “https:” in the URL and/or a “locked padlock” icon in the browser frame).
• In stores, watch to see if credit cards are taken away from the counter and/or out of the customer’s sight while purchases are being authorized. If you can’t see your card or the clerk, you don’t know if your card information is being written down surreptitiously.
• Many security experts suggest using credit cards instead of debit cards. The maximum liability for unauthorized charges on a credit card is $50. The liability for unauthorized use of a debit card can be much higher, depending upon when you report the loss.
• Likewise, experts suggest that, provided you observe basic precautions as mentioned above, using credit cards is safer than writing checks, which can easily be altered to change the payee and amount. If you do find yourself writing checks, use a pen with pigment-based rather than water-based ink, and either write the payee name yourself or ask that the store stamp be applied in your presence.

A final caution in these times of heightened credit awareness: under Federal law, you are entitled to one free credit report per year. For the report to be truly free, without qualification, you must visit www.annualcreditreport.com, NOT www.freecreditreport.com.