Identity thieves: Is there anywhere they won’t go?

According to BBC News, they have recently infiltrated social networking juggernaut Facebook. An identity thief, using the name Koobface, is sending messages to users trying to convince them to open up a “video.” However, when they try to view the video, a window pops up asking them to accept the newest version of Adobe Flash player. Instead of getting the program they expect, they end up with a virus that searches their machines for credit card information. The worst part is, many don’t even realize it until it’s too late.

This is not Koobface’s first foray into the social networking world. He was also spotted on MySpace in August of 2008. So why is the Web 2.0 world becoming a popular place for thieves to hang out? A lot of it is because of the built in trust factor. Since you have to log in to these sites in order to send emails, many think, erroneously, that there is some kind of a screening process that prevents people with malicious intent from getting through. Not only would this be incredibly difficult for sites that have thousands or even millions of members, but identity thieves don’t advertise their agendas when setting up accounts.

Keeping that in mind, it now becomes obvious that you are responsible for protecting yourself and cannot rely on any website to take care of it for you. Don’t worry; there are four easy ways to be vigilant:

1. Don’t open attachments on messages from people you don’t know. It doesn’t matter if they’re your “friends.” If you don’t have a personal relationship with them, just don’t do it. Tell your friend that this is your policy and to post any videos or photos to their page if they want you to see them.
2. Keep your virus protection software up to date. If you have a good program, like Norton Antivirus, it can clean up any existing viruses you have on your machine and prevent you from downloading new ones. However, if you don’t regularly update your software, some may be able to slip through the cracks. This is what identity thieves count on.
3. Use a temporary credit card number when you shop online. (Call your credit card company to find out how.) Also, never save your information on your machine or set up accounts with online stores that keep your credit card number, no matter how secure they purport to be. Data breaches have been known to happen without a company’s consent. And don’t forget to check your credit card statements each month to make sure you recognize all of the charges.
4. Consider hiring one of the many credit protection services. They can help to keep you safe even if a thief gets a hold of your private information by keeping an eagle eye on your credit report. Plus, many plans offer insurance for expenses you incur if you do end up having to go after a thief – with the help of law enforcement of course.