Revoking Security Access Is Not Enough

March 15 2010 by in Uncategorized |Comments Off

A California man has been arrested for interfering with computers at the California Independent System Operator (Cal-ISO) agency, which controls the state’s power transmission lines and runs its energy trading markets. Even though Lonnie C. Denison’s security access had been suspended at the request of his employer because of an employee dispute, he allegedly gained physical access to the facility with his card key. Once inside, Denison allegedly broke the glass protecting an emergency power cut-off station and pushed the button, causing much of the data center to shut down. Cal-ISO was unable to access the energy trading market, but the power transmission grid was unaffected.

– SANS

Passwords

March 10 2010 by in Uncategorized |Comments Off

Use a password in only one place.
Reusing passwords or using the same password all over the place is like carrying one key that unlocks your house, your car, your office, your briefcase, and your safety deposit box. If you reuse passwords for more than one computer, account, website, or other secure system, keep in mind that all of those computers, accounts, websites and secure systems will be only as secure as the least secure system on which you have used that password. Don’t enter your password on untrusted systems. One lost key could let a thief unlock all the doors. Remember: Change your passwords on a schedule to keep them fresh.
– SANS

Census Campaign Warning

March 6 2010 by in Uncategorized |Comments Off

US-CERT asks users to be vigilant during the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2010 Census campaign and to watch for potential census scams.

According to the U.S. Census 2010 website, they began delivery of the printed census forms to every resident in the United States on March 1, 2010. The only way to complete the census is by filling in the form using pen and ink; in some instances, census takers will be visiting households to complete the form face-to-face. It is important to understand that the U.S. Census Bureau will not, under any circumstances, be providing an online option to complete the 2010 census form.

US-CERT encourages all residents in the United States to take the following measures to protect themselves:

•Review available information about the 2010 U.S. Census on the website.
•Familiarize yourself with what information the U.S. Census Bureau is collecting on the census form.

•Do not follow unsolicited web links of attachments in email messages.
•Refer to the Recognizing and Avoiding Email Scams (pdf) document for more information on avoiding email scams.
•Refer to the Avoiding Social Engineering and Phishing Attacks document for more information on social engineering attacks.

Understanding Your Computer: Web Browsers

March 2 2010 by in Uncategorized |Comments Off

Web browsers allow you to navigate the internet. There are a variety of options available, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.

How do web browsers work?
A web browser is an application that finds and displays web pages. It coordinates communication between your computer and the web server where a particular website “lives.”

When you open your browser and type in a web address (URL) for a website, the browser submits a request to the server, or servers, that provide the content for that page. The browser then processes the code from the server (written in a language such as HTML, JavaScript, or XML) and loads any other elements (such as Flash, Java, or ActiveX) that are necessary to generate content for the page. After the browser has gathered and processed all of the components, it displays the complete, formatted web page. Every time you perform an action on the page, such as clicking buttons and following links, the browser continues the process of requesting, processing, and presenting content.

How many browsers are there?
There are many different browsers. Most users are familiar with graphical browsers, which display both text and graphics and may also display multimedia elements such as sound or video clips. However, there are also text-based browsers. The following are some well-known browsers:

•Internet Explorer
•Firefox
•AOL
•Opera
•Safari – a browser specifically designed for Macintosh computers
•Lynx – a text-based browser desirable for vision-impaired users because of the availability of special devices that read the text

How do you choose a browser?
A browser is usually included with the installation of your operating system, but you are not restricted to that choice. Some of the factors to consider when deciding which browser best suits your needs include

•compatibility – Does the browser work with your operating system?

•security – Do you feel that your browser offers you the level of security you want?

•ease of use – Are the menus and options easy to understand and use?

•functionality – Does the browser interpret web content correctly? If you need to install other plug-ins or devices to translate certain types of content, do they work?

•appeal – Do you find the interface and way the browser interprets web content visually appealing?

Can you have more than one browser installed at the same time?
If you decide to change your browser or add another one, you don’t have to uninstall the browser that’s currently on your computer—you can have more than one browser on your computer at once. However, you will be prompted to choose one as your default browser. Anytime you follow a link in an email message or document, or you double-click a shortcut to a web page on your desktop, the page will open using your default browser. You can manually open the page in another browser.

Most vendors give you the option to download their browsers directly from their websites. Make sure to verify the authenticity of the site before downloading any files. To further minimize risk, follow other good security practices, like using a firewall and keeping anti-virus software up to date (see Understanding Firewalls, Understanding Anti-Virus Software, and other US-CERT Cyber Security Tips for more information).

School Sued for Spying on Students with Webcams

February 21 2010 by in Uncategorized |1 Comment

The Lower Merion School District has been accused of spying on students through webcams on their laptops.

“While certain rules for laptop use were spelled out … there was no explicit notification that the laptop contained the security software,” said Superintendent Christopher W. McGinley. “This notice should have been given, and we regret that was not done.”

“Despite some reports to the contrary, be assured that the security-tracking software has been completely disabled,” said McGinley.

Security Note: Beware of webcams and microphones on your computer. If they are connected, it is possible for someone to remotely control these devices. They can see you. They can hear you.

$59 Computer Scam

February 16 2010 by in Uncategorized |Comments Off

There is a “pump and dump” circulating about “The $59 Computer”. A pump and dump scam usually happens with penny stock trades. A stock that sells for pennies is purchased and hyped by a “research” firm. When the price goes up from the fraudulent hyping, the originator of the scam sells their stock. When they dump, the stock price takes a dive and the scammed investors lose their money.

The research firm hyping the “secret” stock is Stansberry & Associates Investment Research. The name of the company use to be Porter Stansberry, Agora Inc. Porter Stansberry was fined by the SEC for fraud.

“An investment newsletter’s publisher and its editor have been hit with $1.5 million in financial penalties after a U. S. federal judge determined they defrauded their own subscribers in a securities scam.”

They changed their name a couple times. On October 24, 2005 they changed to its current name of Stansberry & Associates Investment Research, LLC.

Beware of a newsletter that starts like this:
“The Biggest Revolution since the Internet?”
~MIT’s Technology Review New “$59 Computer”
Hitting Chinese Markets It’s not a laptop, PC, or any computer you’ve ever seen or used. But it’s now being used by more than 100 of the world’s largest corporations, the Canadian Government, and more than 10,000 small businesses. Its next stop could unleash billions of dollars – and transform one tiny U.S. company into a juggernaut.”

Understanding How Your Computer Operates

February 12 2010 by in Uncategorized |Comments Off

National Cyber Alert System:

The operating system is the most fundamental program that runs on your computer. It serves as the basis for how everything else works.

What is an operating system?
An operating system (OS) is the main program on a computer. It performs a variety of functions, including

•determining what types of software you can install
•coordinating the applications running on the computer at any given time
•making sure that individual pieces of hardware, such as printers, keyboards, and disk drives, all communicate properly
•allowing applications such as word processors, email clients, and web browsers to perform tasks on the system (e.g., drawing windows on the screen, opening files, communicating on a network) and use other system resources (e.g., printers, disk drives)
•reporting error messages

The OS also determines how you see information and perform tasks. Most operating systems use a graphical user interface (GUI), which presents information through pictures (icons, buttons, dialog boxes, etc.) as well as words. Some operating systems can rely more heavily on textual interfaces than others.

How do you choose an operating system?
In very simplistic terms, when you choose to buy a computer, you are usually also choosing an operating system. Although you may change it, vendors typically ship computers with a particular operating system. There are multiple operating systems, each with different features and benefits, but the following three are the most common:

•Windows – Windows, with versions including Windows XP, Windows Vista, and Windows 7, is the most common operating system for home users. It is produced by Microsoft and is typically included on machines purchased in electronics stores or from vendors such as Dell or Gateway. The Windows OS uses a GUI, which many users find more appealing and easier to use than text-based interfaces.

•Mac OS X – Produced by Apple, Mac OS X is the operating system used on Macintosh computers. Although it uses a different GUI, it is conceptually similar to the Windows interface in the way it operates.

•Linux and other UNIX-derived operating systems – Linux and other systems derived from the UNIX operating system are frequently used for specialized workstations and servers, such as web and email servers. Because they are often more difficult for general users or require specialized knowledge and skills to operate, they are less popular with home users than the other options. However, as they continue to develop and become easier to use, they may become more popular on typical home user systems.

Editor’s Note: The Linux operating system is often the most secure and inexpensive. It is almost impossible to securely connect a Microsoft computer to the Internet.

Teach Your Kids How to Stay Safe on Social Networks

February 11 2010 by in Uncategorized |Comments Off

Better Business Bureau — The popularity of social networking continues to grow among kids. Social networking sites can provide a secure way for kids to connect with each other, but they can also be exploited for any number of nefarious purposes. Better Business Bureau recommends parents take specific steps to keep their kids safe online.

Kids of all ages are getting into social networking. According to iStrategy Labs the number of users on Facebook that are between the ages of 13 and 18 grew by 88 percent in 2009 to 10.7 million. While Facebook and MySpace require all users to be at least 13 years old, some sites are geared for children even younger.

“For some parents, their kids know more about computers and the Internet than they do, however, it’s important to remember that kids aren’t old enough to understand all of the various threats that lurk online,” said Alison Southwick, BBB spokesperson. “Even if they’re intimidated by technology, parents need to supervise their child’s computer use in the house as well as educate their kids on how to play it safe online.”

BBB offers the following tips for parents who want to help keep their kids safe online:

Explain the Difference Between Sharing and Oversharing – While social networking is about sharing photos, thoughts and experiences, explain to your kids that they should never share personal information such as phone numbers, address, bank account numbers, passwords or their Social Security numbers. Also talk about what constitutes inappropriate photos or language and stress the fact that—while you may be able to delete them—you can never fully take them back.

“Never talk to strangers” applies online too – One of the first rules we teach our kids is to never talk to strangers; remind them that the rule holds true when online. Even though chatting with a stranger online can seem harmless, the relationship can evolve and grow until the stranger has earned your child’s trust—and can then exploit it.

Set strict privacy settings – Social networking sites let users determine who they want to share information with. Talk to your child about restricting access to his or her profile to only friends or users in safe networks such as their school, clubs or church groups.

Keep the channels of communication open – Let your kids know that you are always ready to talk if they are ever threatened, bullied or feel uncomfortable about an experience they had online.

Join them online – If you haven’t already, set up your own account in the same social networks. This will help you better understand what social networking is all about. You can also then “Friend” your child and keep an unobtrusive eye on what they are doing.

Federal law requires sites collecting identifying information from children under 13 to get a parent’s consent first. Report concerns about data collection from children under 13 to the Children’s Advertising Review Unit of the Council of Better Business Bureaus at www.caru.org/complaint.

You can learn more about how to keep your kids safe online at http://www.onguardonline.gov/topics/net-cetera.aspx.

250 Arrests By Child Predator Unit

February 11 2010 by in Uncategorized |Comments Off

HARRISBURG, PA – Agents from the Attorney General’s Child Predator Unit have recently arrested three suspected Internet predators, including a plumber from New York state who traveled to Lawrence County to have sex with what he believed was a 13-year old girl; a computer technician from Lackawanna County who used online chat rooms to sexually proposition what he believed was a young girl; and a chef from Wayne County accused of sending 14 nude webcam videos to an undercover agent using the online profile of a young teen.

“Predators have come from every corner of our state, and as far away as Florida, Texas and Massachusetts, all trying to use the Internet to have some form of sexual contact with children,” Attorney General Tom Corbett said. “They use popular social networking sites and online chat rooms to search for young victims, looking for kids who are lonely, curious, trusting or otherwise vulnerable.”

Corbett identified the defendants as:

*
Jeffery A. Kimmel, 43, 618 Persons St., East Aurora, NY.
*
Michael Latona, 34, 311 Elizabeth St., Dunmore, Lackawanna County.
*
Joseph Thomas Ursich, 41, 159 Swamp Brook Road, Hawley, Wayne County.

Jeffery A. Kimmel
Corbett said that Kimmel allegedly used an Internet chat room to contact an undercover agent from the Child Predator Unit on January 13, 2010. At the time, the agent was using the online profile of a 13 year old girl from New Castle, Lawrence County.

According to the criminal complaint, Kimmel used his cell phone camera to send a nude photo of himself during their first online chat and expressed a desire to engage in sexual activity with the girl. Kimmel also allegedly offered to bring the girl gifts, promising to bring her a sexual device in her favorite color (pink) and wine coolers if she agreed to meet – telling her that he would teach her about sex and “show her everything.”

Corbett said that Kimmel allegedly asked for the girl’s address so he could use an Internet mapping program to plan his trip, telling her that they could have sex in his truck – commenting, “back seat is big,” and, “we are gonna have fun in my truck.”

Kimmel was arrested on January 22nd, when he arrived at a predetermined meeting location in Lawrence County, driving a vehicle that matched a description provided during online chats.

Corbett said that agents executed a search warrant on Kimmel’s vehicle, seizing a pink sexual device and wine coolers.

Kimmel is charged with three counts of unlawful contact with a minor (related to sexual offenses), a first-degree felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison and $25,000 fines.

Additionally, Kimmel is charged with three counts of unlawful contact with a minor (related to sexual offenses), a second degree felony punishable by up to ten years in prison and $25,000 fines.

Kimmel is also charged with three counts of unlawful contact with a minor (related to sexual offenses), three counts of unlawful contact (related to explicit sexual materials) and three counts of criminal use of a computer, all third-degree felonies which are each punishable by up to seven years in prison and $15,000 fines.

Kimmel was lodged in the Lawrence County prison in lieu of $250,000 cash bail, awaiting a preliminary hearing on February 9th, at 9:30 a.m., before New Castle Magisterial District Judge Melissa A. Amodie.

Corbett thanked the New Castle Police Department, the Erie County New York Sheriff’s Department, the New York Department of Motor Vehicle and the New York State Information Center for their cooperation and assistance with this investigation.

Kimmel will be prosecuted in Lawrence County by Deputy Attorney General William F. Caye II of the Attorney General’s Child Predator Unit.

Michael Latona
Latona, an Information Technology technician, allegedly used an Internet chat room to contact what he believed was a 13-year old girl. The “girl” was actually an undercover agent using the online profile of a fictitious child from the Harrisburg area.

Corbett said that during a series of online chats, Latona allegedly discussed meeting the girl for sex and sent the girl numerous pornographic photos and videos. He is also accused of using a computer webcam to send nude or sexually explicit webcam videos of himself to the girl.

Latona is charged with four counts of unlawful contact with a minor (related to sexual materials or performances), along with one count of criminal use of a computer, all third-degree felonies which are each punishable by up to seven years in prison and $15,000 fines.

Latona was preliminarily arraigned on January 26th and later released on $50,000 bail. A preliminary hearing will be scheduled at a future date in Lackawanna County Central Court.

Corbett thanked the Dunmore Police Department for their cooperation and assistance with this investigation.

Latona will be prosecuted in Lackawanna County by Deputy Attorney General Christopher Jones of the Attorney General’s Child Predator Unit.

Joseph Thomas Ursich
Corbett said that Ursich allegedly used an Internet chat room to contact an undercover agent from the Child Predator Unit who was using the online profile of a 13-year old girl.

According to the criminal complaint, Ursich sent a webcam video of himself masturbating during his first online chat. Over the next several weeks, Ursich allegedly sent a total of 14 sexually explicit webcam videos.

Corbett said Ursich also allegedly encouraged the girl to masturbate during their online chats and asked her to send him nude photos.

Ursich is charged with 14 counts of unlawful contact with a minor (related to sexual materials or performances) and one count of criminal use of a computer, all third-degree felonies which are each punishable by up to seven years in prison and $15,000 fines.

Ursich was preliminarily arraigned before Hawley Magisterial District Judge Bonnie L. Carney and lodged in the Wayne County Prison in lieu of $75,000 bail. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for February 3rd, at 9 a.m., at the Wayne County Central Courthouse.

Corbett thanked Pennsylvania State Police Honesdale for their cooperation and assistance with this investigation.

Ursich will be prosecuted in Wayne County by Deputy Attorney General Christopher Jones of the Attorney General’s Child Predator Unit.

Internet Safety
Since its creation in 2005, the Attorney General’s Child Predator Unit has arrested 250 people, all accused of sexually propositioning children online or sending pornographic or nude photos and videos.

Corbett explained that online predators work in many different ways. Some try to arrange meetings with kids, while others draw satisfaction from sending nude photos or sexually explicit videos to children.

“Computer and cell phone technology makes it fast and easy to send messages or images, and many of the suspects arrested by the Child Predator Unit began sexually graphic discussions during their first online conversations with children,” Corbett said. “The best defense for parents is to regularly discuss Internet safety with their children and actively monitor their online activities.”

Corbett encouraged parents to considering the following family Internet safety tips:

*
Know what children are doing online.
*
Understand the websites they use and who they are communicating with.
*
Review their MySpace and Facebook pages or other online profiles.
*
Make sure children do not give out personal information, like their names, ages or addresses.
*
Talk to them about the dangers of face-to-face meetings with strangers.
*
Encourage children to report any inappropriate contact involving strangers, including sexually suggestive comments or attempts to arrange face-to-face meetings.
*
Do your own research – use Google or other Internet searches to see what your children, or their friends, may be posting online.

Suspected Internet predators can be reported to the Attorney General’s Child Predator Unit using the “report a predator” link, located on the front page of the Attorney General’s website, or by calling the Child Predator Hotline, at 1-800-385-1044.

Internet safety tips and other information are available in the “Operation Safe Surf” and “Just for Kids” sections of the Attorney General’s website. Organizations interested in materials, speakers or presentations, can contact the Attorney General’s Education and Outreach Office at 1-800-525-7642 or via email at education@attorneygeneral.gov

(A person charged with a crime is presumed innocent until proven guilty.)

Phishing Scam: “some jerk has posted your pictures”

February 4 2010 by in Uncategorized |Comments Off

There is a massive email phishing scam that comes with a variety of subject lines, such as, fw and re. The body of the email usually looks like this:

Hey, some jerk has posted your pictures (u understand what kind of pictures are there) and sent a link of them to all ur friends. I have already replied back. Said, that he is an idiot. See the link:

http://photobank.tygersg.cz/id1073bv/get.php?email=your-email-address

DO NOT CLICK ON THE LINK. It is advised that you turn html off in your email program.

Next Page »