Info from OCSO

*** Informational Bulletin-Cyber Monday & Holiday Cyber Security ***

Black Friday traditionally is the "biggest shopping day of the year.” The Monday following Thanksgiving (11/28/2011) is designated as Cyber Monday by the e-commerce industry. This is a day for merchants and manufacturers to offer online sales and promotions without interfering with the Black Friday traditional retail shopping.
On Cyber Monday and throughout the holiday season, consumers are encouraged to beware of bargain advertisements sent via unsolicited e-mails for one day only promotions for recognized brands or websites. Fraudsters often use the hot items of the holiday season to lure bargain shoppers into providing credit card and other personal information. These items are usually the hard to get toys, electronics, televisions and computer products of the season.

Here are some tips you can use to avoid becoming a victim of cyber fraud:

Log on directly to the official website for the business identified in the e-mail, instead of a link from an unsolicited e-mail. This includes forwarded messages from someone on your contact list.

If the e-mail appears to be from your bank, credit card issuer, or other company you deal with frequently, your statements or official correspondence from the business will provide the proper contact information.

Use anti-virus and anti-spyware software and keep up with the security updates to prevent viruses and
malicious programs from infecting your computer.

If you suspect your computer has a virus, have it serviced immediately from a trusted source.

Make purchases using websites with secure connections. Look for websites that use Secure Socket Layer
(SSL) security which protects your personal information. Check the browser’s status bar for an unbroken
“padlock” icon that indicates the sites is using SSL.

Use your credit card instead of debit card when making a purchase. Credit cards offer added protection from fraudulent transactions.

Avoid using websites asking for an “electronic check”. This will require you provide your bank routing number and your entire checking account number.

Never use your Social Security Number to make online purchases. A legitimate retailer or website will never
ask for your Social Security Number.

Use passwords difficult to decipher. A strong password should include at least five letters
and one number. Your login name and password should never be the same.

For more information on how to safely shop online this holiday season, please go to the Internet Crime
Complaint Center website at www.ic3.gov/media/2011/111121.aspx You may also visit the FBI.gov E-scams
and Warnings webpage at http://www.fbi.gov/cyberinvest/escams.htm