ID Thieves' New Tricks (page 4 of 4)

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The Next Targets

Where will the bad guys turn next? The Department of Homeland Security warns that cell phones and other handhelds (like BlackBerrys) are "becoming increasingly vulnerable to hackers and viruses." Symantec's Cole sees instant messaging (IM) becoming a popular target. With its built-in "buddy lists," it has a cozy feel that cybercrooks find attractive. "The big thing about IM that has not been exploited yet," he says, "is that people trust it."

Cole also expects to see more attacks on browsers, and new efforts to embed crimeware on PCs. And he's already seeing phishers moving away from mimicking large institutions to posing instead as local credit unions and regional banks. Thieves, he says, are also eyeing popular blogs and networking sites like MySpace.com, again in an attempt to exploit users' trust.

It's possible, some experts say, that all this malicious activity is a good sign. Burt Kaliski, vice president for RSA Security, believes it shows that criminals are getting desperate.

"I think it may be the last attempt by the fraudsters to get people to fall for their tricks," he says. That doesn't mean it's time to become less vigilant, he adds. In fact, Kaliski encourages consumers to demand more protection -- increased encryption and identification methods -- from those they do business with online.

Even more encouraging: Authorities are getting better at catching high-tech thieves. How much better? Says prosecutor Aquilina: "Better than our targets might think."

Beat the Thieves

Install security software and stay current with the latest patches.
Always be suspicious of unsolicited e-mail.
Monitor the volume and origin of pop-up ads. A change may signal something sinister.
Visit the FBI's new Web site, lookstoogoodtobetrue.gov, for tips.
Use debit cards like credit cards, i.e., with a signature, not a PIN code.
If you live in one of the 20 states where it's possible, place a freeze on credit reports. This stops any credit activity in your name unless you specifically initiate it.
Keep an eye out for "skimmers" lurking in places where you use cards.
Enable encryption on wireless routers immediately upon setting up a home network.
Shop only on secure Web sites (look for the padlock or "https" in the address bar); use credit, not debit, cards; don't store your financial info in an "account" on the Web site.