Preventing Identity Theft During Holiday Shopping
The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that the holiday season is peak time for cycbercriminals hoping to steal bank account information or other personal data to use for fraudulent purchases. A San Diego State University professor of information technology said the volume of cybercriminal activity is increasing.
Because online shopping increases during this period, criminal activity also increases, because hackers know that there isn’t time for online retailers to screen every transaction as thoroughly. By attacking computer networks during November and December, identity thieves believe there is less chance of detention.
In order to prevent hackers from stealing their identity, bank account numbers, or other information, experts have the following advice for consumers:
*Keep your anti-virus and spyware software up-to-date.
*Shop through retailers who have a strong reputation for security.
*Use different passwords for email, banking, and online shopping
Holiday season brings out worst in cybercriminals, San Diego Union-Tribune, December 17, 2008
A San Diego criminal defense lawyer can assist you if you have been arrested and charged with identity theft or other crimes.
