Don't get locked out or left in the dark! Social engineering and those "OMG, I can't believe I just did that" moments can happen to the best of us. But don't worry—communication, research, and arming ourselves with layers of security are key to building your personal defense. Let's stay safe and secure together!
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:
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:
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:
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:
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:
Redundancy and Backup Systems:
Manual Workarounds:
Communication Protocols:
Regular Testing and Updates:
Vendor Management:
Cybersecurity Integration:
Closing: Leveraging Expert Resources
To build a resilient business continuity plan, consider leveraging expert resources and tools available online:
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:
This shift offers several benefits:
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:
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.
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:
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.
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.
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