The Identity Theft Resource Center compiles an ongoing Security breach list and publishes it weekly. It presents individual information about data exposure events and running totals for the year. My last blog update on these security breaches was on 10/28/08. At that time, there had been 544 Security Breaches with 30,422,125 records exposed.
As 11/11/08, the totals are now 570 breaches with 41,355,511 records exposed. In 3 weeks, that is about a 36% increase in the number of records exposed!
Actually, the number of records exposed (possibly your personal information) is much higher. To understand why I say this, one only has to look at the report and see how many breaches have a zero listed as the number of records exposed.
Still think your information is safe?
To view this report, click here or on the title of this post.
To learn more about Identity Theft and what to do if you are a victim, visit www.StopIdTheftCrime.com and subscribe to the newsletter to obtain your free 46 page eBook "Fighting Back Against Identity Theft".
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
Shameless plug
the Best Identity Theft Protection available dot com
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Former Massachusetts inmate charged with Identity Theft
Former Massachusetts prisoner charged with identity theft
by Sachin SethFrancis Janosko, 42, a former inmate at Plymouth County Correctional facility in Plymouth, has been arrested on charges of identity theft and damage to the prison’s computer network, according to the Department of Justice.
Janosko allegedly found a way to manipulate research computers so that he and other inmates could access files that contained the names, birth dates, phone numbers and Social Security numbers of more than 1,000 current and former prison employees, the DOJ reports. (Full text at blastmagazine.com)
After working over 23 years for the Department of Corrections, this does not surprise me at all. Inmates are given way to many liberties while incarcerated.
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
Shameless plug
the Best Identity Theft Protection available dot com
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Protecting Your Children From Identity Theft
Protecting Your Children From Identity Theft
NEW YORK (CBS) ― There are a number of school programs teaching children about the importance of money, but consumer advocates say kids need to learn about protecting themselves from the growing crime of identity theft.
Zach Friesen is looking at a promising future that was almost derailed by a crime he didn't commit. His identity was stolen back when he was just 7 and he didn't find out until he applied for a job and college loans.
...Experts say more than 400,000 children have their identities stolen each year. ..
(Full text at wcbstv.com)
Here is a video titled Stolen Futures produced by IRTC.
To learn more about Identity Theft and what to do if you are a victim, visit www.StopIdTheftCrime.com and subscribe to the newsletter to obtain your free 46 page eBook "Fighting Back Against Identity Theft".
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
Shameless plug
the Best Identity Theft Protection available dot com
NEW YORK (CBS) ― There are a number of school programs teaching children about the importance of money, but consumer advocates say kids need to learn about protecting themselves from the growing crime of identity theft.
Zach Friesen is looking at a promising future that was almost derailed by a crime he didn't commit. His identity was stolen back when he was just 7 and he didn't find out until he applied for a job and college loans.
...Experts say more than 400,000 children have their identities stolen each year. ..
(Full text at wcbstv.com)
Here is a video titled Stolen Futures produced by IRTC.
To learn more about Identity Theft and what to do if you are a victim, visit www.StopIdTheftCrime.com and subscribe to the newsletter to obtain your free 46 page eBook "Fighting Back Against Identity Theft".
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
Shameless plug
the Best Identity Theft Protection available dot com
FBI sting busts 56 for buying, selling stolen credit card data
FBI sting busts 56 for buying, selling stolen credit card dataKudos to the FBI for the excellent job.
Fifty-six people have been arrested for their unknowing association with an FBI-run online forum that traded stolen credit card information, authorities revealed on Thursday.
At its height, the DarkMarket forum counted 2,500 people as registered members, the FBI said in a statement. Authorities estimate the sting helped save $70 million in victim losses.
(Full text at www.scmagazineus.com)
To learn more about Identity Theft and what to do if you are a victim, visit www.StopIdTheftCrime.com and subscribe to the newsletter to obtain your free 46 page eBook "Fighting Back Against Identity Theft".
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
Shameless plug
the Best Identity Theft Protection available dot com
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Security Breaches Update
The Identity Theft Resource Center compiles an ongoing Security breach list and publishes it weekly. It presents individual information about data exposure events and running totals for the year. As of 10/22/08, there has been 544 Security Breaches with 30,422,125 records exposed.
Actually, the number of records exposed (possibly your personal information) is much higher. To understand why I say this, one only has to look at the report and see how many breaches have a zero listed as the number of records exposed.
To view this report, click here or on the title of this post.
To learn more about Identity Theft and what to do if you are a victim, visit www.StopIdTheftCrime.com and subscribe to the newsletter to obtain your free 46 page eBook "Fighting Back Against Identity Theft".
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
Shameless plug
the Best Identity Theft Protection available dot com
Actually, the number of records exposed (possibly your personal information) is much higher. To understand why I say this, one only has to look at the report and see how many breaches have a zero listed as the number of records exposed.
To view this report, click here or on the title of this post.
To learn more about Identity Theft and what to do if you are a victim, visit www.StopIdTheftCrime.com and subscribe to the newsletter to obtain your free 46 page eBook "Fighting Back Against Identity Theft".
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
Shameless plug
the Best Identity Theft Protection available dot com
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Feds Issue New Identity Theft Recommendations
President Bush's Identity Theft task Force has released their 70 page report on steps taken by federal agencies to implement recommendations originally proposed in the Identity Theft Task Force's strategic plan, published in April 2007
On April 11, 2007, the Task Force submitted its Strategic Plan to the President. The Strategic Plan examined the nature and scope of identity theft and offered a far-reaching series of recommendations to reduce its incidence and impact. Although these recommendations were directed primarily at improving the federal government’s response to identity theft, the Task Force recognized that everyone—consumers, the private sector, and federal, state, and local governments—has a role to play in fighting this crime.
This report documents the Task Force’s efforts to implement the Strategic Plan’s recommendations. The Task Force has successfully carried out most of the recommendations or is making substantial progress in doing so.
The Strategic Plan included recommendations in four key areas:
First, with respect to data protection, the Task Force has promoted a new culture of security in the public and private sectors. For the public sector, the Task Force member agencies launched a variety of initiatives aimed at making the federal government a better custodian of sensitive personal information. The Office of Management and Budget, for example, worked to educate all federal agencies on improving data security practices and is monitoring their performance in doing so. The Office of Personnel Management led an interagency initiative to eliminate unnecessary uses of Social Security numbers (SSNs)—one of the most valuable commodities for identity thieves—in federal government human resource functions, while individual agencies
began to eliminate unnecessary uses of SSNs in other aspects of their work.
The Task Force encouraged similar data security efforts in the private sector by launching several policymaking, outreach, and enforcement initiatives.
The Task Force expanded its data security and identity theft business and consumer education campaigns through speeches, videos, articles, brochures, testimony, interviews, tip sheets, and a best practices workshop for businesses. In one important example, the U.S. Postal Service delivered a mailing in early 2008 to 146 million U.S. residences and businesses with advice on how to protect themselves against identity theft. Task Force member agencies continued to investigate and, where appropriate, take civil, administrative, or criminal enforcement action against individuals and entities for violations of data security laws and regulations.
Second, the Task Force examined ways to prevent identity theft by making it harder for thieves to misuse consumer data. Member agencies held two public workshops that explored means of improving consumer authentication processes to prevent thieves from using stolen personal information to access existing accounts or open new ones. One of the workshops specifically addressed the availability and use of SSNs in the authentication process, and whether there are better and less sensitive substitutes. These workshops provided opportunities for public and private sector representatives and consumer advocates to explore these issues.
Third, the Task Force launched a number of initiatives to assist identity theft victims when they begin the sometimes arduous task of repairing their credit and restoring their good names. Task Force member agencies over the past year provided identity theft training to over 900 law enforcement officers—often the first sources to whom victims turn—from over 250 agencies. Task Force members also trained victim assistance counselors and provided grants to organizations that directly help identity theft victims. Task Force members developed and posted an Identity Theft Victim Statement of Rights and are working closely with the American Bar Association on a pro bono legal assistance program for identity theft victims. Task Force members also are continuing to evaluate the effectiveness of various laws and programs designed to help victims, such as state identity theft “passport” programs, state credit freeze laws, and rights granted under the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act of 2003.
Fourth, the Task Force worked to improve law enforcement’s ability to investigate, prosecute, and punish identity thieves by proposing legislation to Congress, improving coordination and training for local law enforcers, and targeting criminal enforcement initiatives. Task Force members also are enhancing international cooperation by partnering with foreign law enforcement agencies in identity theft investigations and providing them with training and assistance, and encouraging greater information sharing among and between law enforcement agencies and the private sector.
The Task Force’s Strategic Plan notes that there is no simple solution to identity theft. It is an ever-evolving problem with many dimensions. Public concerns about the security of personal information and identity theft remain at high levels, with potentially serious consequences for the functioning of our economy.2 The efforts of the Task Force over the past year to implement the Plan’s recommendations have underscored the need for a comprehensive and coordinated response from both the public and private sectors. These efforts have already made a difference and will continue to do so in the coming years.
The task force also focused on its efforts to improve restitution and aid for victims of identity theft, for whom it takes an average of 600 hours and $6,000 to get any damage to their identities fixed.
The above paragraph is the exact reason I use and recommend Identity Theft Shield by Kroll. Inc. I personally don't have an extra 15 - 40 hour work weeks and $6k laying around to fix the damage if my Id is compromised. Kroll will assign a licensed investigator to do most of the work for you and the cost is as low as $12.95/month and covers both you and your significant other.
(To read or download the whole 70 page report - click here)
To learn more about Identity Theft and what to do if you are a victim, visit www.StopIdTheftCrime.com and subscribe to the newsletter to obtain your free 46 page eBook "Fighting Back Against Identity Theft".
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
Shameless plug
the Best Identity Theft Protection available dot com
On April 11, 2007, the Task Force submitted its Strategic Plan to the President. The Strategic Plan examined the nature and scope of identity theft and offered a far-reaching series of recommendations to reduce its incidence and impact. Although these recommendations were directed primarily at improving the federal government’s response to identity theft, the Task Force recognized that everyone—consumers, the private sector, and federal, state, and local governments—has a role to play in fighting this crime.
This report documents the Task Force’s efforts to implement the Strategic Plan’s recommendations. The Task Force has successfully carried out most of the recommendations or is making substantial progress in doing so.
The Strategic Plan included recommendations in four key areas:
- Data protection—keeping consumer data out of the hands of criminals;
- Avoiding data misuse—making it harder for criminals to exploit consumer data;
- Victim assistance—making it easier for victims to detect and recover from identity theft;
- and Deterrence—increasing prosecution and punishment of perpetrators.
First, with respect to data protection, the Task Force has promoted a new culture of security in the public and private sectors. For the public sector, the Task Force member agencies launched a variety of initiatives aimed at making the federal government a better custodian of sensitive personal information. The Office of Management and Budget, for example, worked to educate all federal agencies on improving data security practices and is monitoring their performance in doing so. The Office of Personnel Management led an interagency initiative to eliminate unnecessary uses of Social Security numbers (SSNs)—one of the most valuable commodities for identity thieves—in federal government human resource functions, while individual agencies
began to eliminate unnecessary uses of SSNs in other aspects of their work.
The Task Force encouraged similar data security efforts in the private sector by launching several policymaking, outreach, and enforcement initiatives.
The Task Force expanded its data security and identity theft business and consumer education campaigns through speeches, videos, articles, brochures, testimony, interviews, tip sheets, and a best practices workshop for businesses. In one important example, the U.S. Postal Service delivered a mailing in early 2008 to 146 million U.S. residences and businesses with advice on how to protect themselves against identity theft. Task Force member agencies continued to investigate and, where appropriate, take civil, administrative, or criminal enforcement action against individuals and entities for violations of data security laws and regulations.
Second, the Task Force examined ways to prevent identity theft by making it harder for thieves to misuse consumer data. Member agencies held two public workshops that explored means of improving consumer authentication processes to prevent thieves from using stolen personal information to access existing accounts or open new ones. One of the workshops specifically addressed the availability and use of SSNs in the authentication process, and whether there are better and less sensitive substitutes. These workshops provided opportunities for public and private sector representatives and consumer advocates to explore these issues.
Third, the Task Force launched a number of initiatives to assist identity theft victims when they begin the sometimes arduous task of repairing their credit and restoring their good names. Task Force member agencies over the past year provided identity theft training to over 900 law enforcement officers—often the first sources to whom victims turn—from over 250 agencies. Task Force members also trained victim assistance counselors and provided grants to organizations that directly help identity theft victims. Task Force members developed and posted an Identity Theft Victim Statement of Rights and are working closely with the American Bar Association on a pro bono legal assistance program for identity theft victims. Task Force members also are continuing to evaluate the effectiveness of various laws and programs designed to help victims, such as state identity theft “passport” programs, state credit freeze laws, and rights granted under the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act of 2003.
Fourth, the Task Force worked to improve law enforcement’s ability to investigate, prosecute, and punish identity thieves by proposing legislation to Congress, improving coordination and training for local law enforcers, and targeting criminal enforcement initiatives. Task Force members also are enhancing international cooperation by partnering with foreign law enforcement agencies in identity theft investigations and providing them with training and assistance, and encouraging greater information sharing among and between law enforcement agencies and the private sector.
The Task Force’s Strategic Plan notes that there is no simple solution to identity theft. It is an ever-evolving problem with many dimensions. Public concerns about the security of personal information and identity theft remain at high levels, with potentially serious consequences for the functioning of our economy.2 The efforts of the Task Force over the past year to implement the Plan’s recommendations have underscored the need for a comprehensive and coordinated response from both the public and private sectors. These efforts have already made a difference and will continue to do so in the coming years.
The task force also focused on its efforts to improve restitution and aid for victims of identity theft, for whom it takes an average of 600 hours and $6,000 to get any damage to their identities fixed.
The above paragraph is the exact reason I use and recommend Identity Theft Shield by Kroll. Inc. I personally don't have an extra 15 - 40 hour work weeks and $6k laying around to fix the damage if my Id is compromised. Kroll will assign a licensed investigator to do most of the work for you and the cost is as low as $12.95/month and covers both you and your significant other.
(To read or download the whole 70 page report - click here)
To learn more about Identity Theft and what to do if you are a victim, visit www.StopIdTheftCrime.com and subscribe to the newsletter to obtain your free 46 page eBook "Fighting Back Against Identity Theft".
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
Shameless plug
the Best Identity Theft Protection available dot com
Saturday, October 25, 2008
FTC Grants 6 month Stay in Enforcement of Red Flags Rule!
As the title states, the FTC has granted a 6-month stay of enforcement (until May 1, 2009) of the Red Flags rule to financial institutions and creditors. The Red Flags rule requires them to develop and implement an Identity Theft prevention program.
The Rule applies to creditors and financial institutions. Federal law defines a creditor to be: any entity that regularly extends, renews, or continues credit; any entity that regularly arranges for the extension, renewal, or continuation of credit; or any assignee of an original creditor who is involved in the decision to extend, renew, or continue credit. (Click here to view who is included)
But of course there is a catch! This FTC stay of enforcement does not affect other federal agencies’ enforcement of the original November 1, 2008 deadline for institutions subject to their oversight to be in compliance.
To read the FTC news release - click here.
To learn more about Identity Theft and what to do if you are a victim, visit www.StopIdTheftCrime.com and subscribe to the newsletter to obtain your free 46 page eBook "Fighting Back Against Identity Theft".
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
Shameless plug
the Best Identity Theft Protection available dot com
The Rule applies to creditors and financial institutions. Federal law defines a creditor to be: any entity that regularly extends, renews, or continues credit; any entity that regularly arranges for the extension, renewal, or continuation of credit; or any assignee of an original creditor who is involved in the decision to extend, renew, or continue credit. (Click here to view who is included)
But of course there is a catch! This FTC stay of enforcement does not affect other federal agencies’ enforcement of the original November 1, 2008 deadline for institutions subject to their oversight to be in compliance.
To read the FTC news release - click here.
To learn more about Identity Theft and what to do if you are a victim, visit www.StopIdTheftCrime.com and subscribe to the newsletter to obtain your free 46 page eBook "Fighting Back Against Identity Theft".
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
Shameless plug
the Best Identity Theft Protection available dot com
Friday, October 24, 2008
We're a Countrywide Victim!
I can't believe it's been 2 weeks since I last posted. I've been busy working with the California Crime Victims Coalition and traveling on the road.
A lot has happened since my last post. My wife received a letter from Countrywide stating that her private information had been sold by an employee and offered to pay for 2 years of Experian's Triple Advantage credit monitoring service. According to their website, (click here to see for yourself) Experian only charges $14.95/month to monitor your credit. The product that I use and recommend is Identity Theft Shield by Kroll. They not only monitor your credit, they do the restoration for you if you should become a victim of Id Theft.
And they only charge $15.95/month for both you and your significant other as a standalone service. If you obtain the Id Theft Shield with a Prepaid Legal plan it is only $12.95/month. This is the best way to go because you will need a lawyer if your Id is compromised.
Anyway, I called Countrywide and told them that I currently had better protection with Kroll and had to go up through their chain of command to get them to pay for my current Id Theft service.
At least I was told that someone would call me in a day or two. Been 7 days now and no call yet. That is a good example of Countrywide's NO customer service plan. I'm glad I don't use them anymore.
To learn more about Identity Theft and what to do if you are a victim, visit www.StopIdTheftCrime.com and subscribe to the newsletter to obtain your free 46 page eBook "Fighting Back Against Identity Theft".
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
Shameless plug
the Best Identity Theft Protection available dot com
A lot has happened since my last post. My wife received a letter from Countrywide stating that her private information had been sold by an employee and offered to pay for 2 years of Experian's Triple Advantage credit monitoring service. According to their website, (click here to see for yourself) Experian only charges $14.95/month to monitor your credit. The product that I use and recommend is Identity Theft Shield by Kroll. They not only monitor your credit, they do the restoration for you if you should become a victim of Id Theft.
And they only charge $15.95/month for both you and your significant other as a standalone service. If you obtain the Id Theft Shield with a Prepaid Legal plan it is only $12.95/month. This is the best way to go because you will need a lawyer if your Id is compromised.
Anyway, I called Countrywide and told them that I currently had better protection with Kroll and had to go up through their chain of command to get them to pay for my current Id Theft service.
At least I was told that someone would call me in a day or two. Been 7 days now and no call yet. That is a good example of Countrywide's NO customer service plan. I'm glad I don't use them anymore.
To learn more about Identity Theft and what to do if you are a victim, visit www.StopIdTheftCrime.com and subscribe to the newsletter to obtain your free 46 page eBook "Fighting Back Against Identity Theft".
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
Shameless plug
the Best Identity Theft Protection available dot com
Monday, October 13, 2008
New Utah State Law Helps Identity Theft Victims
Bringing Relief for Identity Theft VictimsTo learn more about Identity Theft and what to do if you are a victim, visit www.StopIdTheftCrime.com and subscribe to the newsletter to obtain your free 46 page eBook "Fighting Back Against Identity Theft".
Written by Identity Theft Daily Staff
Monday, 13 October 2008A.G. & LEGISLATORS ANNOUNCE NEW CREDIT FREEZE LAW
Utahns now have the fastest credit freeze law in the country. Utah Attorney General Mark Shurtleff and Senator Carlene Walker announced today that a new state law is now in effect that allows identity theft victims to freeze their credit and protect their credit ratings.
"Utah's new credit freeze law stops identity thieves cold and quick," says Attorney General Mark Shurtleff. "Consumers can freeze and thaw their credit in 15 minutes."
...The 15 minute thaw period was the key to passing the Credit Freeze Protection law. The original 2005 bill stalled because merchants and auto dealers were troubled by the original three-day thaw period. But Senator Carlene Walker and Representative David Clark continued to work with businesses and credit bureaus to come up with a solution and the software to speed up the thaw cycle. The bill finally passed in 2006 but it gave credit bureaus until September 1, 2008 to get their computers reprogrammed....(Full text at Identity Theft daily)
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
Shameless plug
the Best Identity Theft Protection available dot com
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Fed Stiffens ID Theft Penalties, Schwarzenegger Kills California Breach Bill
Fed Stiffens ID Theft Penalties, Schwarzenegger Kills California Breach BillIdentity thieves, if a new federal ID theft law is enforced, will now face stiffer federal penalties for their crimes. Federal prosecutors will also have increased leeway to pursue more ID theft cases. Also, for the second time in 12 months, California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed a new California Data Breach Bill. Was that a good idea?
As anyone who has been following data security is aware, in July 2003 the California Data Breach Disclosure Law (known in those days as SB 1386) went into effect. This law had a profound impact in raising public and policymaker awareness on just how many data breaches were occurring across the country. Before SB 1386, while many security professionals knew there were far more breaches occurring than being reported, it was difficult to find much evidence to prove it. Today, every time a hacker, or anyone without authorization for that matter, could have obtained unencrypted account information from a lost notebook, hacked server, or backup tape: customers are told.
One of the most important aspects of SB 1386 was that it didn’t force technological standards, or best practices, on companies. If certain types of data were accessed by someone who was not authorized to see it and that data was not encrypted, a mandatory breech notification to those affected is triggered.
..Now, the prosecution of data thieves, brings us to the bill President Bush signed last week into law, the The Identity Theft Enforcement and Restitution Act of 2008. No more will federal prosecutors need to show $5,000 in damages to bring charges. ...(Full text at www.informationweek.com)
To learn more about Identity Theft and what to do if you are a victim, visit www.StopIdTheftCrime.com and subscribe to the newsletter to obtain your free 46 page eBook "Fighting Back Against Identity Theft".
Shameless plug
the Best Identity Theft Protection available dot com
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Cybercrime against Businesses Totals $867 million in 2005 (that's only of the respondents to this DOJ survey report)
Cybercrime against Businesses, 2005
By Ramona R. Rantala
BJS Statistician
Among 7,818 businesses that responded to the National Computer Security Survey, 67% detected at least onecybercrime in 2005 (table 1). Nearly 60% detected one or more types of cyber attack, 11% detected cyber theft, and 24% of the businesses detected other computer security incidents. Respondents, representing 36 economic industries, said they detected more than 22 million incidents ofcybercrime in 2005. The vast majority of cybercrimes (20 million incidents) were other computer security incidents,primarily spyware, adware, phishing, and spoofing. There were nearly 1.5 million computer virus infections and 126,000 cyber fraud incidents.
The effects of these crimes were measured in terms of monetary loss and system downtime. Ninety-one percent of the businesses providing information sustained one or both types of loss. The monetary loss for these businesses totaled $867 million in 2005. Cyber theft accounted for more than half of the loss ($450 million). Cyber attacks cost businesses $314 million. System downtime caused by cyber attacks and other computer security incidents totaled 323,900 hours. Computer viruses accounted for 193,000 hours and other computer security incidents resulted in more than 100,000 hours of system downtime.
...Computer virus infections were the most prevalent cybercrime among businesses in 2005
...86% of victimized businesses detected multiple incidents
...91% of businesses detecting cybercrime incurred losses
...Cybercrime resulted in monetary loss of $867 million among businesses responding to the survey
If this figure is from almost 8,000 respondents in the survey, can you imagine what the total is for all businesses which is over 7 million? I think I see a bailout plan option for the Feds.
...Insiders were involved in cyber theft for 74% of businesses in 2005
...Most businesses did not report cyber attacks to law enforcement authorities
The majority of businesses reported embezzlement (72%), fraud (63%), and theft of personal or financial data (60%). Few businesses reported theft of intellectual property (27%), any type of cyber attack (6%), or other computer security incidents (12%) to law enforcement officials.
Few businesses (3%) indicated that their decision not to report an incident to law enforcement was based on the possibility of negative publicity or decreased confidence in the business.
...Three-fifths of the businesses detecting cyber attacks reported that the Internet was involved
...Insufficient anti-virus software was the most prevalent vulnerability
...Businesses that outsourced all or part of their computer security had a greater prevalence of incidents (Read the whole report by clicking here)
Still think your information is safe? Who's in your wallet?
To learn more about Identity Theft and what to do if you are a victim, visit www.StopIdTheftCrime.com and subscribe to the newsletter to obtain your free 46 page eBook "Fighting Back Against Identity Theft".
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
Shameless plug
the Best Identity Theft Protection available dot com
Thursday, September 25, 2008
FTC Warns about Charity & ID Theft Scams Due to Hurricane Ike
Due to Hurricane Ike, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is urging consumers to be careful when making donations to help the victims of the disaster, and for victims of the disaster to beware of home repair and identity theft scams. Scam artists might take advantage of this situation by creating bogus fundraising and home repair operations or engaging in identity fraud.
For a list of precautions consumers should take when donating to charities, visit http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/alerts/alt114.shtm. For more information on avoiding scams, visit the FTC's Hurricane Recovery Web site at http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/recovery/hurricane/media.html.
To learn more about Identity Theft and what to do if you are a victim, visit www.StopIdTheftCrime.com and subscribe to the newsletter to obtain your free 46 page eBook "Fighting Back Against Identity Theft".
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
Shameless plug
the Best Identity Theft Protection available dot com
For a list of precautions consumers should take when donating to charities, visit http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/alerts/alt114.shtm. For more information on avoiding scams, visit the FTC's Hurricane Recovery Web site at http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/recovery/hurricane/media.html.
To learn more about Identity Theft and what to do if you are a victim, visit www.StopIdTheftCrime.com and subscribe to the newsletter to obtain your free 46 page eBook "Fighting Back Against Identity Theft".
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
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Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Security Breach Update
The total number of breaches in on the Identity Theft Resource Center’s 2008 breach list surpassed the final total of 446 reported in 2007, more than 4 months before the end of 2008. As of 9:30 a.m. August 22nd, the number of confirmed data breaches in 2008 stood at 449. The actual number of breaches is most likely higher, due to under-reporting and the fact that some of the breaches reported, which affect multiple businesses, are listed as single events. In the last few months, two subcontractors became examples of these “multiple” events. In one case, the customers and/or employees of at least 20 entities were affected by a breach that the ITRC reported as a single breach event.In summary, the total number of breaches as of today is 503 with 30,381,211 records exposed. Is your information one of those records?
ITRC recognizes that 449 breaches in less than a year is a small number when compared to the total number of business, governmental, health, banking and educational entities that have databases. However, for the individuals whose information has been exposed, 449 data exposure events are still too many. It should be noted that the growth in the number of breaches from year to year can no longer only be attributed to required reporting laws and media investigative work. (Full text at www.idtheftcenter.org)
Click this article title to see the report of the breaches (pdf format).
To learn more about Identity Theft and what to do if you are a victim, visit www.StopIdTheftCrime.com and subscribe to the newsletter to obtain your free 46 page eBook "Fighting Back Against Identity Theft".
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
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Monday, September 22, 2008
New US Identity Theft Bill set for Approval
US Identity Theft Bill set for ApprovalCalifornia has already passed a law that makes it easier to prosecute identity thieves.
Security legislation heads to president's desk
Written by Shaun Nichols in San Francisco
vnunet.com, 20 Sep 2008A new identity theft bill is set to become US federal law, adding stiffer penalties and stricter definitions for identity and information theft crimes.
The Identity Theft Enforcement and Restitution bill will allow victims to sue criminals for restitution from identity theft, and eliminate the $5,000 minimum damages amount previously required before unauthorised access charges could be filed.
The bill will also extend the reach of law enforcement by making it a felony to install spyware or malware on more than 10 computers...
...
The bill was written by Senator Patrick Leahy in 2007, but was not passed by the House of Representatives. Leahy then attached the proposal to another bill dictating the protection of former US vice presidents.
Having passed the House and Senate, the bill will now be sent to the president for final approval and signing into law....(Full text at vnunet.com)
State law now allows identity thieves to be tried in the victims' jurisdictions, rather than only in the places the crimes occur. (Read whole post here.)
To learn more about Identity Theft and what to do if you are a victim, visit www.StopIdTheftCrime.com and subscribe to the newsletter to obtain your free 46 page eBook "Fighting Back Against Identity Theft".
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
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Monday, September 15, 2008
Guilty Plea in Largest ID Theft Case in US History
You read it right. On Friday, Damon Toey of Miami, who was one of 11 people indicted last month and charged with stealing more than 41 million credit card and debit card numbers from major retailers, pled GUILTY!
Toey helped the group hack into computer networks including the system of TJX COS. His confession included multiple counts of credit card fraud, identity theft and wire fraud.
To learn more about Identity Theft and what to do if you are a victim, visit www.StopIdTheftCrime.com and subscribe to the newsletter to obtain your free 46 page eBook "Fighting Back Against Identity Theft".
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
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Toey helped the group hack into computer networks including the system of TJX COS. His confession included multiple counts of credit card fraud, identity theft and wire fraud.
To learn more about Identity Theft and what to do if you are a victim, visit www.StopIdTheftCrime.com and subscribe to the newsletter to obtain your free 46 page eBook "Fighting Back Against Identity Theft".
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
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Friday, September 12, 2008
2 Million More Victims of Id Theft?
Countrywide warns of possible identity theftTo learn more about Identity Theft and what to do if you are a victim, visit www.StopIdTheftCrime.com and subscribe to the newsletter to obtain your free 46 page eBook "Fighting Back Against Identity Theft".
Contributor: Kerry Kavanaugh
Email: kkavanaugh@abcactionnews.com
Tarpon Springs, FL---Countrywide Financial is mailing out notices to customers telling them their personal information may have been stolen. "This morning I go and get my mail and freaked out” says Tammy Levent of Tarpon Springs. Her mortgage is financed through Countrywide.Levent received a letter in the mail explaining her identity may have been compromised.
In the letter Countrywide says that a now former countrywide employee may have sold unauthorized personal information to a third party. "Could it be in this country, in another part of the world? You don't know where it's been sold” Levent says. She’s one of two million people getting the letter this week. (Full text at www.abcactionnews.com)
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
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Monday, September 8, 2008
Identity Theft, Parolees and Drugs
Here in California in the fine city of Visalia, it appears some parolees have found a good use for identity theft, which of course is tied to DRUGS!
I wrote an article for a Los Angeles newpaper explaining why Id Theft is so popular amongst the illegal drug trade and drug abusers. You can read it by clicking here.
To learn more about Identity Theft and what to do if you are a victim, visit www.StopIdTheftCrime.com and subscribe to the newsletter to obtain your free 46 page eBook "Fighting Back Against Identity Theft".
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
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I wrote an article for a Los Angeles newpaper explaining why Id Theft is so popular amongst the illegal drug trade and drug abusers. You can read it by clicking here.
Stolen-mail, identity-theft investigation yields Visalia arrests
Staff reports • September 7, 2008
Visalia Police Department officers have made four arrests over the past week involving ongoing stolen mail and identity-theft investigations:— Sept. 2: Julie Marquez, 38, was arrested on a parole violation after police conducted a parole-violation search at 725 S. Bridge St., Visalia. Police reported that materials were found pertaining to an identity theft case which “will involve over 100 victims,” police reported.
— Sept. 3: Joseph Ortega, 43, was arrested on suspicion of grand theft, mail theft, identity-third related crimes, possession of heroin an possession of methamphetamine. The arrest came after a search at 1425 S. Central St., Visalia.
— Sept. 3: Patrick Skillian, 32, was arrested for violation of parole, and on suspicion of possession of stolen property, identity theft, possession of counterfeit U.S. currency and possession of methamphetamine for sale. The arrest took place at 612 S. Encina St., where Kimberly Johnson, 24, was also arrested on suspicion of possession of stolen property, possession of a counterfeit California driver’s license, identity theft and three outstanding warrants.
— Sept. 4: Justine Marks, 21, was arrested from a past warrant issued by Visalia Police property-crimes detectives for a past charge of burglary and identity theft. Police discovered additional property which resulted in two more counts each of suspected burglary and identity theft — and three counts of suspected possession of stolen property. (Full text at www.VisaliaTimesDelta.com)
To learn more about Identity Theft and what to do if you are a victim, visit www.StopIdTheftCrime.com and subscribe to the newsletter to obtain your free 46 page eBook "Fighting Back Against Identity Theft".
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
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Thursday, September 4, 2008
Certegy Settles Consumer Data Theft Lawsuits
Certegy Settles Consumer Data Theft Lawsuits
By ELAINE SILVESTRINI | The Tampa TribuneTAMPA - A federal judge has approved a settlement in two class-action lawsuits filed against a St. Petersburg check authorizing company that had more than 8.4 million consumer records stolen and sold to direct marketers.
The settlement provides for a range of credit monitoring services and reimbursement of expenses for those whose identity was stolen. The company, Certegy Check Services, is also reimbursing more than $2 million in legal expenses to the law firms involved in the cases.
William G. Sullivan, a former analyst for Certegy, was sentenced in July to four years and nine months in federal prison for stealing the records.
A federal prosecutor said at the sentencing hearing that Certegy had to spend $3.2 million to notify the 5.9 million customers whose private financial information was stolen. The victims were in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and overseas. Some customers had data stolen that was not deemed to be private financial information.
...According to a Web site set up to notify consumers about the settlement, www.datasettlement,com, it provides that all class members who had their personal or financial information stolen can get compensated up to $20,000 for certain unreimbursed identity theft losses caused by the data theft. The losses covered could occur from Aug. 24, 1998, to Dec. 31, 2010.
Consumers notified by Certegy are also eligible for credit monitoring or bank monitoring performed by Certegy, identity theft insurance, and reimbursement for certain out-of-pocket expenses...(Full Text at Tampa Bay Online)
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
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Wednesday, September 3, 2008
FTC Identity Theft Study: You Can Help
FTC Identity Theft Study: You Can Help
The Federal Trade Commission has announced a proposal for a consumer survey research project "to advance its understanding of the experiences of consumers who interact with consumer reporting agencies following an incident of identity theft."
Dallas, TX, August 29, 2008 --(PR.com)-- The FTC and SPENDonLIFE need your help to fight identity theft, the fastest-growing consumer threat facing Americans today.
The Federal Trade Commission announced this week a proposal for a consumer survey research project "to advance its understanding of the experiences of consumers who interact with consumer reporting agencies following an incident of identity theft." The FTC hopes to use this information to aid in its future enforcement and education efforts.
Prior to gathering data, the FTC is seeking public comments on the proposed research, which must be filed by September 2, 2008. Written comments should refer to "Consumer Experiences with CRAs Research: FTC File No. P065405," and include this reference both in the text and on the envelope. The mailing address is:
Federal Trade Commission, Room H-135 (Annex J)
600 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20580.
If you are including any material for which you request confidential treatment, clearly label the document "Confidential."
If you prefer, electronic forms may be submitted at: https://secure.commentworks.com/ftc-factasurvey. You may also file a form through the website www.regulations.gov.
All public comments will be available to the public on the FTC website, www.ftc.gov. The FTC asks that any additional requests for information regarding this effort be addressed to Pavneet Singh or Anthony Rodriguez, Attorneys, Division of Privacy and Identity Protection, Bureau of Consumer Protection, Federal Trade Commission, 600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Mail Stop NJ-3158, Washington, DC 20580, or 202-326-2252.
Despite ongoing legislative efforts to combat identity theft crimes, they continue to plague America -- sapping financial resources, ravaging credit scores, and ruining the lives of innocent people. The information in this press release is brought to you by SPENDonLIFE and the FTC. The FTC is stepping up its efforts to fight ID theft, but they need your help to do it. For additional information about identity theft and your credit in general, visit http://www.spendonlife.com.
To learn more about Identity Theft and what to do if you are a victim, visit www.StopIdTheftCrime.com and subscribe to the newsletter to obtain your free 46 page eBook "Fighting Back Against Identity Theft".
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
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Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Identity theft: Is your child at risk? 5 things you need to know
As you get ready to send your children off to school, you’ve got a lot on your mind. But did you know that in addition to worrying about healthy school lunches, soccer schedules, and back to school supplies, you should be thinking about protecting your child’s identity?Many parents don't realize just how vulnerable their children are to identity theft. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), as many as 400,000 children may already be victims of identity theft. To make matters worse, the number of complaints has increased by 78 percent over the past several years, making children the fastest growing segment of identity theft victims.
Children and teenagers are prime targets for identity thieves for a number of reasons. They typically have clean credit reports, making it easy for scammers to take out loans in their name. (Full text at www.Education.com)
To learn more about Identity Theft and what to do if you are a victim, visit www.StopIdTheftCrime.com and subscribe to the newsletter to obtain your free 46 page eBook "Fighting Back Against Identity Theft".
Remember, estimates are that every 2-4 seconds an Identity is compromised. Why take chances? Why not protect yourself and your loved ones with the best suite of services provided (including restoration) by the best NYSE company in the field? Educate yourself and visit the shameless plug below or call me at (909) 208-3728!
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