Identity Theft from Social Networks

Do you MySpace? How about Facebook, or Twitter? If the answer is 'yes,' be careful.

Cyber thieves are now taking advantage of online social networks and stealing personal information from their victims. It's as simple as this: your friend posts a link on their profile that piques your curiousity.

All you have to do is click.

You click on it, and it takes you to a legitimate looking website that asks you for your password or for personal information. This process is known as a 'phishing attack' or 'malware.' Once your account is compromised, it can do the same for the rest of your 'friends' on the social network. Pretty sneaky, huh?

Or, let's suppose you're not on a social network and you come across a site that looks like a legitmiate site -oh- but wait! You must first 'download this application in order for the webpage to load correctly.' You think your computer has an outdated software version and you click the pop-up bar on your internet browser. As easy as 1-2-3 these cyber criminals trick you into letting them hack into your computer and they can steal personal information.

So, although criminals prefer low-technology old-fashioned theft, there's a new breed of criminals breeding out there. Be careful, and protect yourself from Identity Theft by avoiding these common pitfalls. Also, double check to make sure your homeowners or renters policy carries the Identity Theft endorsement that covers costs involved in restoring your good name.

For more information on this, read the CNN.com article: Facebook, Twitter crooks just a click away

Posted 12:12 PM

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