ebiz market, llc - FREE cybersecurity series

I purchased a Vanilla Gift Card from Walmart (prepaid Visa®) following all the right steps—retaining proof of purchase, receipt, and the card numbers from the back. The card itself was nestled in a fancy cardboard, decorative covering. However, dozens of identifying numbers and a barcode were exposed on the back of the packaging, but the actual 16-digit number on the front of the card was conveniently shielded by the packaging. Nowhere on the packaging or the Walmart receipt does it explain that the 16-digit card number on the front must be recorded, or there’s no way to track the card or prove you’re the one who actually purchased it—the receipt and other card identifying numbers just don’t cut it. I can’t track whether the card was cashed or if the intended recipient ever saw a dime. This lack of transparency and customer support is making me wonder if this is part of a larger scam.

Offshore Support and Inadequate Service  

An additional concern with purchasing a Vanilla Gift Card (or any gift card) from Walmart is that Vanilla Gift Card support is off-shore. I called their support line multiple times, but the language barrier made it difficult to understand their responses. While I understand that accents and language differences can occur, the bigger issue was being transferred to different departments with no resolution AFTER my issue fell outside of the automated service selections! It felt like a thousand issues must fall somewhere between selection one, two, or three. Just push the button! 

Moreover, when I attempted to reach them outside of business hours, they were closed as early as 10 PM U.S. PST, leaving me with no support when I needed it the most. This lack of accessibility and support further adds to the frustration of being unable to track or confirm the use of the gift card. I'm not afraid to admit I shop where it's necessary to save a few dollars, and sometimes, buying an OTC prepaid card may be necessary. 

Warning: The Myth of 24/7 Support
How much time are you willing to wait on hold, or be transferred to one department after another? 

Why This Is Important
This is not just a minor inconvenience—this could be part of a larger scam involving gift cards purchased from major retailers like Walmart. With unhelpful customer service and zero clear answers, it’s crucial to share this experience and raise awareness about the risks involved in purchasing these cards. You shouldn't have to worry about your purchase being exploited, and no one should be left in the dark with no way to track their funds.

I get it—retailers want to protect their gift cards from theft, which is why they keep them behind the register or in some “secure” centralized location. But let’s face it: corporate giants like Walmart have turned this into a convenience for them—preying on the ease of just grabbing a gift card off the shelf. Oh, and let’s not forget the cherry on top: most of these cards come with a nearly $5 "convenience fee." So much for the convenience!

The Solution:

• Ask in Store: Before purchasing a gift card, ask a customer service agent if they know who is responsible for tracking the card and what identifying information is needed in th unlikely event the card is lost or stolen. 
• Don’t Buy If Unclear: If they don’t have a clear answer, DON’T BUY IT! Period.
• Use Traditional Gifting Methods: Ship a small gift via USPS certified mail with a tracking number and a requested signature, or purchase a verifiable, hassle-free gift card and ship via FedEx or UPS. If that's not possible, contact your banking institution for suggestions on sending monetary gifts through other methods.
• Research It: Check the card itself for the company name and use your smartphone (yes, that gadget in your pocket) to research the company. Make sure to check more than one trusted review site, like Consumer Affairs or Trustpilot. If the reviews are less than favorable, it’s probably safe to assume buying that prepaid card isn’t your best move.

Conclusion
Writing this "be aware of gift card purchase" article is nothing compared to the effort I put into trying to track whether this gift card ended up in the wrong hands or was cashed! What’s the point of a gift card if you have to ask, "Hey, did you cash the gift card or even receive it?" Seriously?!

Disclaimer: 

This article reflects a personal experience with the purchase of a Walmart gift card, backed by records from multiple instances of similar situations. But don’t worry—not every shopper will run into the same issues I’ve described here. Individual experiences may vary (lucky you if yours don’t involve headaches). And for the record, the company in question has finally agreed to open an investigation, which will take up to 30 days after I submitted the receipt, proof of my address, and driver's license (I opted to use a passport card, which they were totally fine with). I also got a verbal assurance that my information won’t be sold—though it was pretty clear I was speaking to support from somewhere far, far away. Buyer beware! Once the investigation is concluded, I might just remove this article... or not. Stay tuned!

The problem is that detailed images of homes and establishments on Google Maps can provide potential burglars with valuable information about property layouts, security measures, and valuable assets, increasing the risk of targeted burglaries.  

The solution is to blur your property on Google Maps, which conceals critical details from potential thieves. In response to ABC News's request for comment, a Google spokesperson said the company allows users to blur their home if they prefer that it appear that way on Google Maps. This simple action can help enhance your property's security by making it less visible to potential burglars.

To blur your home or establishment on Google Maps, follow these step-by-step instructions:

1. Access Google Maps: Open Google Maps on your computer and locate your address using the search bar.
2. Enter Street View Mode: Drag the yellow "Pegman" icon (found in the bottom-right corner) onto the map to enter Street View mode at your location.
3. Find Your Property: Navigate to the view of your property that you wish to blur.
4. Report a Problem: Click on the "Report a Problem" link, which is located at the bottom-right corner of the screen.
5. Fill Out the Form: A form will appear. Adjust the red box to cover the area you want blurred, and select "My home" or "My establishment" as the reason for the request.
6. Submit the Request: Provide any additional information if prompted, and then submit the form. Google may contact you for further details if necessary.

These steps will help ensure your property is blurred on Google Maps, adding an extra layer of privacy and security.

In addition to blurring your home or establishment on Google Maps, it's important to understand the broader privacy measures Google has in place for its Street View and Photo Path features. Google automatically blurs identifying details like faces and license plates in street-level images to protect privacy. For photos owned by Google, users can request additional blurring if their face, home, or other identifying information is visible. However, if a photo is owned by someone else, it is the photographer's responsibility to blur sensitive elements before publishing. Once a photo is blurred, the change is permanent, ensuring ongoing privacy protection. This highlights the importance of being proactive about privacy and security in our digital world, as these measures can't be undone once implemented. 

In an ever-evolving world where even burglars are getting tech-savvy, it's crucial to stay one step ahead by continuously updating your security measures. Blurring your property on Google Maps is a simple yet effective way to add an extra layer of protection. Think of it as putting on a pair of digital sunglasses—stylish and discreet! Remember, security isn't a one-time effort; it's a dynamic process that should keep pace with the changing times. So, keep your home or establishment safe and sound, and maybe even give those would-be burglars a run for their money in the tech department! 

The recent massive data breach at National Public Data has once again highlighted the vulnerability of our personal information in the digital age. This breach, which reportedly exposed sensitive data of nearly 3 billion individuals, including names, addresses, and Social Security numbers, serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threats to our online security. Such incidents not only compromise our privacy but also increase the risk of identity theft and financial fraud.

To protect yourself in the wake of this breach and maintain good online security hygiene, consider the following steps:

• Monitor your credit reports regularly for any suspicious activity. Did you know? You can now access your free credit reports weekly instead of annually, giving you more frequent opportunities to monitor your credit health and spot potential issues. The official website to request your free credit reports is: https://www.annualcreditreport.com 
•  Enable a credit freeze to restrict access to your credit report, making it harder for criminals to open new accounts in your name. A credit freeze is free and provides stronger legal protections, while a credit lock may require a paid subscription and offers less protection. For more details, visit The Nerd Wallet: Credit Lock vs. Freeze: How They Compare and When to Use Them. 
•  Use strong, unique passwords for each of your online accounts. Consider using a password manager to generate and store secure passwords. Bitwarden is a free, open-source option that many security-conscious users prefer for its user-friendliness. For more information here.  
• Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on all accounts that offer this feature.
• Be vigilant against phishing attempts (a form of social engineering), especially given that your contact information may have been exposed. Read more about social engineering from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). 
• Keep your software and operating systems up-to-date to patch security vulnerabilities.
• Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) such as Nord VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Regularly back up your important data to protect against potential ransomware attacks. ISC² (a non-profit organization that specializes in cybersecurity training and certifications) recommends backing up in both the cloud and on an external SSD hard drive that can be securely stored away from critical data. Read about the differences between an SSD and a HHD. So many options! 
• Consider using identity theft protection services for additional monitoring and support.
• Stay informed about the latest cybersecurity threats and best practices to adapt your security measures accordingly.

By implementing these practices, you can significantly enhance your online security posture and better protect yourself against the potential fallout from data breaches like the one at National Public Data.

Disclaimer: eBiz Market does not receive any kickbacks or commissions for the products and services recommended in this article. Our suggestions are based on personal experience and proven effectiveness. With vigilance and the right tools, these recommendations have successfully supported our cybersecurity efforts in the past. 

When Technology Fails: Ensuring Business Continuity in the Digital Age

In today's interconnected business world, we rely heavily on technology to run our operations. But what happens when these critical systems fail? The recent global Microsoft outage on July 19, 2024, serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities in our digital infrastructure and the importance of robust business continuity planning. 

A Real Worl Example

On July 19, 2024, a widespread Microsoft outage caused chaos across multiple industries, highlighting the risks of our interconnected digital world. The impact was severe and far-reaching:

• Airlines Grounded: Major carriers including American Airlines, Delta, and United were forced to ground flights, causing significant travel disruptions.
• Financial Services Disrupted: Banks and financial institutions worldwide reported service interruptions, affecting transactions and customer services.
• Healthcare Systems Affected: Medical facilities faced challenges with booking systems and patient care management.
• Media Blackouts: Broadcasters like Australia's ABC and Sky News experienced difficulties in their TV and radio operations.
• Retail and Service Industries Impacted: Companies across various sectors, from supermarkets to telecommunications providers, reported system failures.

This incident demonstrates how a single point of failure in our technological infrastructure can lead to widespread business operation disruptions, affecting clients, patients, and consumers across the globe. 

The Microsoft outage underscores the critical need for a robust business continuity plan (BCP). Here are key elements to include in your BCP, informed by this recent event:

Risk Assessment and Impact Analysis:

• Identify critical systems and potential vulnerabilities.
• Assess the impact of various failure scenarios on your operations.

Redundancy and Backup Systems:

• Implement redundant systems and backup solutions to maintain operations during outages.
• Consider multi-cloud strategies to reduce dependency on a single provider.

Manual Workarounds:

• Develop procedures for manual operations when digital systems fail.
• Train staff on these procedures to ensure smooth implementation during crises.

Communication Protocols:

• Establish clear communication channels for internal teams and external stakeholders.
• Prepare templates for crisis communication to ensure timely and accurate information dissemination.

Regular Testing and Updates:

• Conduct frequent drills to test your BCP's effectiveness.
• Update the plan based on lessons learned from tests and real incidents.

Vendor Management:

• Understand your technology providers' disaster recovery plans.
• Have contingency plans for critical vendor failures.

Cybersecurity Integration:

• Incorporate robust cybersecurity measures to protect against potential threats.
• Ensure your BCP addresses both technical failures and security incidents.

Closing: Leveraging Expert Resources

To build a resilient business continuity plan, consider leveraging expert resources and tools available online:

• CIO's Guide on Creating an Effective Business Continuity Plan: This resource provides a detailed guide on assessing business processes, determining recovery objectives, and integrating disaster recovery strategies.
• Ready.gov's Power Outage Toolkit: Offers comprehensive checklists and planning scenarios to help businesses prepare for power outages.
• Rubrik's Insights on Business Continuity and Cybersecurity: Highlights the importance of integrating cybersecurity into your BCP to protect against cyber attacks and ensure quick recovery.
• Allianz's Disaster and Disruption Management: Emphasizes the importance of regular testing and executive leadership in driving the continuity process.
• UpGuard's Business Continuity Plan Guide: Provides a step-by-step approach to creating a BCP, focusing on risk assessment, business impact analysis, and detailed plan procedures.

By utilizing these resources, businesses can develop a robust continuity plan that addresses various potential disruptions, ensuring they can maintain or quickly resume operations in the event of a disaster.

The Microsoft outage of July 2024 serves as a powerful reminder that in our technology-dependent world, preparation is key. A well-crafted BCP isn't just about recovering from disasters—it's about maintaining continuous operations throughout any disruption. With proper planning and preparation, your business can weather any storm and emerge stronger on the other side. 

Two-Factor Frustration? Passkeys Offer a Simpler, Secure Future!

Ever feel like logging in online takes way too long? Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra security step, often a code sent to your phone. or an email address  This can be frustrating - what if your phone is dead, lost, you don't have good cell service or you've lost access to your email account? Suddenly, a simple login becomes a stressful scramble.

The good news? There's a new way to log in securely without the hassle! Many devices are now prompting for "passkeys" instead of passwords. These passkeys are powered by FIDO1 credentials, a new security standard aiming to make logins both secure and convenient. This article explores how FIDO1 credentials can eliminate the need for two-factor authentication while keeping your data safe.

Here's a breakdown of how FIDO1 credentials simplify logins:

• Traditional Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Requires both a password and a secondary verification step (code, fingerprint, etc.). This can be inconvenient and sometimes unreliable.
• FIDO1 Credentials: Utilize public key cryptography stored securely on your device. Logins are verified using biometrics (fingerprint, face recognition) or a PIN, eliminating the need for separate codes or passwords.

This shift offers several benefits:

• Convenience: No more juggling passwords and codes – just a quick fingerprint scan or PIN.
• Security: FIDO1 credentials are more resistant to hacking compared to traditional passwords.

How to Create, Use, and Manage Passkeys on Windows 11.  

Intrigued by the switch to passkeys? Want to ditch the hassle of remembering complex passwords (or worse, writing them down on sticky notes!)? Our friends at How-To Geek have a fantastic guide that walks you through setting up your very own passkey.  For the tech-curious, you can delve deeper into the FIDO Alliance itself at their website. 

So ditch the 2FA frustration and embrace the future of secure logins with passkeys!

Pre-requisite: Please read How to Use Mnemonic Devices to Improve Your Memory from Very Well Mind for a basic overview of mnemonic concepts. And click here for a pronunciation of mnemonic. HINT: the 'm' is silent! 

Are you tired of struggling to create a password that's both strong and memorable? It's a common challenge many face. I often witness clients resorting to basic passwords, easy to remember but unfortunately equally easy to guess. But fear not! In this entry, we're delving deep into the realm of password creation, armed with tips and tricks to help you mind-map new and current passwords. Secure password creation doesn't have to be rocket science! We're passionate about crafting digital fortresses that are both robust and easy to recall. Say goodbye to simplistic passwords that leave you vulnerable to cyber threats! With our guidance and the power of mind-mapping techniques, you'll learn to fortify your online security with passwords that are resilient and intuitive, ensuring your digital presence remains safeguarded. NOTE: For a more complex password maker method, scroll towards the end of this entry.

The issue lies in the common practice of using "password" or "admin" as your password. Moreover, consider the risk posed by divulging personal data such as your birthday online. Think about all the applications and streaming services that prompt you to input your birthday for security or account recovery purposes. I learned a fundamental lesson from my father during my childhood: he utilized his high school locker combination as a passcode, albeit in reverse! For instance, 12-73-85. While not everyone may recall their high school locker combination, if you do decide to use it, ensure that you were the sole possessor of the combination, regardless of whether it's reversed or not. 

Ditch the frustration of remembering complex passwords! Craft a unique and unforgettable one using the Mnemonify My Login™. This method guides you in weaving personal details from your life story, like your childhood street number or a beloved pet's initial, into a secure password. Combining these memories with your username and a meaningful number creates a password that's both strong and easy to recall. 

Forget tricky symbols and random letter combinations! Here's a fun way to create a password you'll never forget. 

Unlocking Strong Passwords with Memories!

Creating secure passwords can feel overwhelming, but what if you could use your own life story to craft one you'll never forget? Here's how:

1. Think back to your childhood home: What was the street number? (Let's say it was 22).
2. Remember a favorite pet's name: Shorten it to the first letter (Fido becomes F).
3. Recall a special place you visited: Grab the first initial (Golden Gate Bridge becomes G).

Now, combine these elements with your username and a memorable number, like your birth year or a lucky anniversary (22FGGrandma@1948).

Voila! A password packed with personal memories that's both easy to recall and keeps your accounts safe. Remember, these are just suggestions – get creative and use details that hold special meaning for you. Just avoid using information someone close to you might easily guess.

• Unleash the Power of Memory: Craft a password using your own life story!
  • Grab the first two letters of your first car (or dream car!).
  • Add the first letter of a favorite vacation spot.
  • Include the first few letters of a special teacher's nickname.

• Memorable Mix-Ins: Don't forget to add a personal touch! Include numbers that hold meaning to you, like:
  • Your favorite football player's number (e.g., Joe Montana's #16)
  • Your lucky number
  • The year of a special event

• Spice it Up with Symbols: Think of special characters like punctuation marks as the finishing touches on your password masterpiece! Ask yourself:
  • Are you a semicolon person (; ) or a question mark person (? )
  • Maybe you prefer an exclamation point (!) to add some extra flair.
  • Choose a symbol that resonates with you!

• Combine with Username and Numbers: Weave these personalized elements together with your username, chosen numbers, and the selected symbol.

• Voila! A Memorable Masterpiece: You now have a unique password packed with memories, easy to recall and tough to crack.

Compliments of The NordPass team.

3 tips to create a strong Master Password

You're probably wondering how to create a Master Password that's strong and easy to remember. Well, you're in luck! We have three great ideas for you:

1. Create your own formula. For instance, you can take any phrase and replace every letter with the next one in the alphabet: cucumbers are tasty -> dvdvncfst bsf ubtuz.
2. The Math Method. You can use mathematical symbols and equations to create a strong password: 270+730=OneThousand.
3. The Sentence Method. Think of a random sentence and transform it into a password by taking the first two letters of every word: Creating a strong password is not that hard after all -> Crastpaisnothhaafal.

Use these ideas or create your own, but whatever you do, make sure it's something long (the longer the better), random, and unique!

Stay safe!
The NordPass team 

Congratulations! You've reached the end of our password series, and hopefully, you now feel empowered to create strong, memorable passwords. We explored the challenges of traditional password creation methods and introduced the Mnemonify My Login™ technique. This approach allows you to weave personal details from your life story – like your first car, favorite vacation spot, or a special teacher's nickname – into a unique and secure password. Remember, the key is to choose details that hold special meaning for you and combine them with your username, memorable numbers, and even a favorite symbol (are you team semicolon or team question mark?).

For a deeper dive into password security best practices, check out our additional resources:

10 Bad Password Examples: Avoid These Common Mistakes

Exploring the risks and benefits of password managers

By following these tips and utilizing the Mnemonify My Login™, you can create strong passwords that are both secure and easy to remember. Now go forth and conquer the digital world with confidence! 

The Mnemonify My Login™ is a suggestion and may not be suitable for everyone. Avoid using easily guessable information like full pet names, family member names, or birthdates. Additionally, remember to never reuse passwords across different accounts and keep them confidential. Avoid writing them down in unsecured locations like your wallet or refrigerator. While some may use encrypted spreadsheets or notepads, a good password manager offers a more secure solution with a zero-trust approach. This means it assumes all devices are potentially compromised and requires verification before granting access. 

Feel free to reach out to eBiz Market, LLC using our contact form. Now go forth and conquer the digital world with confidence and strong passwords! 

In our first cybersecurity series entry, we debunk the myth that online safety requires expensive solutions. We'll explore how small, manageable changes to your device security settings can significantly improve your defense against cyber threats. We'll equip you with the knowledge and practical steps to take control of your digital wellbeing, one step at a time. Stay tuned for actionable tips and easy-to-implement adjustments you can make today! 

Recent reports reveal a concerning trend where criminals are utilizing cellular and Wi-Fi jammers as tools to infiltrate homes, facilitating acts of robbery. This alarming tactic underscores the evolving landscape of cyber threats, posing a direct risk to the safety and security of individuals within their own residences. As highlighted in the USA Today article by Kim Komando, the widespread availability and misuse of such technology emphasize the urgent need for proactive measures to safeguard against emerging cyber risks in our daily lives. 

While achieving complete immunity from cyber threats might be challenging, there are actionable steps individuals can take to bolster their defenses and mitigate the risks associated with cellular and Wi-Fi jammers. In this series, we'll delve into practical strategies aimed at fortifying your security posture and minimizing the potential impact of such malicious tools. Read on.  

• The cornerstone of everyday cybersecurity is building strong habits like using complex passwords and keeping software updated. However, you can further enhance your awareness of potential disruptions by monitoring your device's signal strength. Sudden and unexplained drops in cellular or Wi-Fi strength could indicate jamming activity. This simple practice can be a helpful first step in identifying unusual network behavior. While signal strength apps are available, they shouldn't be your primary defense against jamming. Focusing on strong cybersecurity habits and situational awareness offers a more reliable approach to protecting your online safety.

• An additional layer of security you can consider is two-factor verification (2FA). It might seem like a hassle to enter an extra code when logging in, but it adds a significant obstacle for attackers who might have stolen your password. Think of it like locking your door twice – it makes it much harder for someone to break in.

• VPNs: Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts internet traffic, making it more difficult to intercept even if a Wi-Fi jammer is present. However, some jammers might target the VPN connection itself. NOTE:  Free vs. Paid VPNs: While free VPNs exist, they might have limitations on data usage, speed, or security features. Paid VPNs typically offer better performance and stronger security.

• Strong Passwords & Encryption: Use strong passwords for Wi-Fi networks and enable encryption protocols like WPA2 or WPA3. This makes it harder to hack into their network even if a jammer disrupts the connection temporarily.

• Contact your ISP: Contact your ISP's (Internat Service Provider) customer support and inquire about enabling WPA3 on your home Wi-Fi network. They can advise you on the specific steps or limitations based on their service and equipment.

• Satellite Communication Devices: For critical communication needs, consider satellite communication devices like satellite phones or internet messengers. These rely on satellite networks and are not susceptible to cellular or Wi-Fi jammers. (Note: Satellite communication can be expensive.)

• Mesh Networks: In some situations, mesh networks can provide a more resilient connection compared to traditional Wi-Fi. One can automatically reroute traffic if a node is jammed. However, this might not be feasible for everyone.

• Threat Assessment: Perform a threat assessment to understand their specific risks and tailor their security measures accordingly. Not everyone needs the same level of protection against jamming. Contact us for more information on how to conduct a threat assessment. 

• Physical Security: Sometimes, the most effective way to prevent jamming is physical security. Securing access points and potential jammer locations can deter unauthorized jamming attempts.

• Jammer Strength: These strategies might not be effective against powerful jammers.

• Legality: It's crucial to understand that actively interfering with jammers themselves might be illegal depending on the situation and local regulations.

Wireless cameras won't work without a signal. A wired camera is great for backup. 

Building strong cybersecurity for your home office or small business isn't about a single tool. It's about layering defenses, like an onion, with strong passwords, secure VPNs, and robust antivirus software.  eBiz Market can help you create a comprehensive strategy to keep your data safe. 

When choosing antivirus software, consider user reviews alongside features and independent test results. Here are some top-rated options with their average user rating: Bitdefender Total Security (4.72) F-Secure Total (4.63), and ESET Internet Security (4.79). Better yet, Webroot provides protection against viruses and malware while being lightweight and not slowing down your computer (4.63). 

For an extra layer of online protection, consider adding a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to your security strategy. Here are two highly-rated options to choose from: ExpressVPN consistently earns high marks for its speed, ease of use, and reliable performance. On the other hand, NordVPN is a strong all-around VPN service that prioritizes user privacy with its robust features.

Confused about antivirus and VPN options? Don't sweat it! eBiz Market can help you find the perfect fit to secure your home or business. Just contact us and we'll sort it out together.