The holiday season is here, along with parties, group lunches and project wrap-ups. For many it’s a festive, busy period with a focus on giving and goodwill. Unfortunately, there are also criminals who exploit the distractions of this time of year to steal everything from computers to personal identities.
Each year during the weeks before winter break, The University of Texas Police Department (UTPD) reports a marked increase in on-campus theft of laptops and other personal electronic devices. Other crimes of the season include a surge in phishing scams, fraudulent e-mails and personal identity theft. The good news is you can take steps to prevent such dire happenings by following these suggestions to secure your stuff and stay safe online.
Secure Your Stuff
Protecting your computer from cyber attacks is common practice, but it’s equally important to safeguard all your gear and gadgets against physical theft. Laptops, cell phones, Blackberries, iPods and other electronic devices are prime targets for thieves during the holidays. An additional concern for victims is the loss of all data and personal information stored on the stolen computer or device.
This season, avoid these problems by protecting the physical safety of your university and personal property:
- Lock the door when you leave your desk or office, even for a short period of time.
- Use a computer security cable to fix your computer to your desk or workstation.
- Lock your laptop in a desk drawer when you aren’t using it.
- Don't leave your laptop or other devices unattended in a public area, even the restroom.
- Pay attention when unknown people enter your area. Ask them to identify themselves or offer identification.
If you fall prey to crime or witness a suspicious activity, please contact the UTPD at 471-4441.
Stay Safe Online
Criminals who practice their thievery online have special opportunities during the holidays. Between November and January, Internet shopping increases dramatically, opening the gate for a flood of fraudulent schemes and phony Web sites. This is serious business.
Ordinarily cautious people may be eager to see who sent them the latest holiday e-card or online gift certificate and "Click here" without thinking. Phishing scams take advantage of this type of spontaneous behavior to hook unsuspecting people into revealing personal information, credit card numbers and financial account information.
To avoid disclosing information to an identity thief or making a purchase from an illegitimate vendor, follow these suggestions:
- Know who you are dealing with before making an online purchase. Check with the Better Business Bureau if you don't know the company.
- Make online purchases only on secure Web sites. Before you provide any payment information, look for "https" at the beginning of the Web site address. Symbols such as a key or a closed padlock can also indicate a secure site.
- Never buy anything directly from unsolicited e-mails, no matter how enticing the offer. Legitimate companies don't do business this way.
- Keep your anti-virus software and firewall updated to protect your computer. All university students, faculty and staff can download free security tools from BevoWare.
- Pay for your online purchases in the safest way possible. Credit cards generally allow you to dispute charges. Many now have "zero liability" policies that protect you if someone steals your credit card number and makes fraudulent purchases.
- Keep all records when you make an online purchase, including confirmation e-mails and order numbers. If you don't receive the item on time, you can ask for a refund or cancel the order.
- Check your bank, credit and debit card statements frequently during this high shopping season. If anything looks suspicious, notify the company immediately.
These suggestions won’t stop criminals, but they will reduce your chances of becoming a victim and minimize damage if you are.
