All smartphones are basically a miniature laptop, easy to use, always on you, and loaded with personal information. Think about how often you use your smartphone and the type of information it saves about you as you make use of the advanced features of convenience the phones offer – and then you’ll start to get a grasp of the growing concern starting to sweep through the nation.

Smartphones have become an absolute treasure chest of personal information. The marketer’s dream come true! Most of the time you’re not even aware of how much personal information you’re putting into the smartphone – besides the obvious phone numbers and email addresses of your contact list, there’s also search engine search topics, and keywords you used, text messages, Facebook and Twitter posts, GPS readings, map search results for everywhere you’ve traveled, and even purchases you may have made using your phone like a credit card.

The growing concern doesn’t necessarily have to deal with how much the smartphones are being used to accomplish these days, but more about how easy it is to access this information that is being stored in your smartphone. For instance, most mobile service providers have tracking software in their devices which helps relay information back to them for updating WiFi hot spots and map systems. But what information they are getting and how they are using it is a bit unclear.

In response to this growing concern for privacy and security when using smartphones, there is an expanding movement to make laws that better regulate this issue. Pro-privacy advocates say there should be laws in place to help regulate what information the phone companies have access to, and disclosure for how they use that information, although at the moment there are no major bills being drafted on the matter. Congress has made a number of summons to Apple in particular, to discuss the tracking software it uses.

Not everyone is against the ease of access to the information on smartphones. Law enforcement officials see it as a positive as the information they get from suspect’s smartphones usually breaks the case, with the call logs and text message logs being the most important information to their case. Detectives have even coined the term “digital fingerprints” to describe the information they take off smartphones, because it does lead to arrests.

Reference:

http://www.mercurynews.com/ci_17911919?source=most_viewed&nclick_check=1

When Smartphones Know Too Much – is Your Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) iPhone Putting You In Danger? was created by and is property of American Consumer News.

These security researchers concluded that the collection of this type of data by Apple is “intentional” and have even contacted the security team at Apple in an attempt to determine their reasoning behind such data collection. They have not yet received a response from Apple.

As stated in Apple Insider, “What makes this issue worse is that the file is unencrypted and unprotected, and it’s on any machine you’ve synched with your iOS device,” Allan wrote. “It can also be easily accessed on the device itself if it falls into the wrong hands. Anybody with access to this file knows where you’ve been over the last year, since iOS 4 was released.”

This unprotected file is something users should be worried about if it was able to fall into the wrong hands. The data is stored on a file called “consolidated.db” and it includes the latitude and longitude coordinates along with a timestamp of when the user was at the location. The researchers who discovered this file said that even though the coordinates may not always be exact, they are “pretty detailed.”

As stated in Apple Insider, “There can be tens of thousands of data points in this file, and it appears the collection started with iOS 4, so there’s typically about a year’s worth of information at this point,” Allan wrote. “Our best guess is that the location is determined by cell-tower triangulation, and the timing of the recording is erratic, with a widely varying frequency of updates that may be triggered by traveling between cells or activity on the phone itself.”

The researchers who found this have also reassured those that use the devices that so far there is no evidence that this data is actually being sent to anyone. Those that are still worried about this file can encrypt their backups through iTunes. To do this with your device, simply connect the iPhone or iPad 3G version and then check the “Encrypt iPhone Backup” setting that can be found in the “Options” area.

Privacy Concerns Over Location Tracking in Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) Devices was created by and is property of American Consumer News.

Google (NASDAQ: GOOG) has developed a Privacy Policy. It is a guide to ensuring the company considers the privacy and security for the millions of users who rely on the search engine. Google’s Privacy Policy is based on its responsibility to the people who use the services it provides.

Occasionally Google runs into trouble with the effect of its innovations. A recent example is the conflict over privacy and security issues that affected residents of the United Kingdom. The UK Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has instructed Google to develop a policy related to the way personal information is handled by the Company. Part of the Agreement was for Google to give more in-depth security training for its employees and ensure more privacy is assured of data collected.

An Agreement with ICO was reached and it was signed by the senior vice president of Google, Alan Eustace. He said, “I am very pleased to have a firm commitment from Google to work with my office to improve its handling of personal information,” information commissioner Christopher Graham said in a statement. “We don’t want another breach like the collection of payload data by Google Street View vehicles to occur again.”

Google’s Privacy Policy principles include the aim to “Focus on providing the best user experience” Products developed are done with privacy practices and standards in mind. The Company admits it collects private information and their aim is to not be secretive about the information they have. Google has a history of considering the Privacy Policies of many countries and respects the laws in any country with citizens accessing its products. Google also aims to be flexible enough so that people can have a say in what personal information they give to the Company. No personal information is every given to unauthorized people or organizations.

Google takes its responsibility to its users seriously. They are fully aware of the necessity to protect the privacy of any data they collect. Breaches in security are taken seriously and dealt with by security experts.

Several years ago Google developed a list of 10 things they know to be true in regard to their business. It is company policy to review the list regularly and consider whether they still hold true.

What Drives Google (NASDAQ: GOOG) to Protect the Privacy and Security of its Users was created by and is property of American Consumer News.

Walter Harp, Hotmail’s director of product management said that this updated version of Hotmail is scheduled to start rolling out June 15, and should be able to reach all of their Hotmail users within six weeks.

One of the more interesting security additions set to be offered later this year is that you will have the option to link your computer to your account. This “proof” helps secure accounts from hijacking and allows the real users of the accounts to recover control of their account more easily if it is hacked by criminals. Microsoft will also setup a mobile phone as an option for an additional proof.

This “proof” feature is similar to Facebook’s setting that allows users to approve their devices used to login (such as an iPhone), and if an account is accessed from an unapproved device, the user is then notified. Google also tracks logins and warns their Gmail users of suspicious patterns (such attempts to login from a foreign country and multiple failed login attempts).

Hotmail recognized that many criminals are sending illegitimate e-mails masking as banks. Their new feature called “Trusted Sender” will visually identify legitimate mail from around 100 senders, mostly financial institutions such as banks.

As stated in a recent article in ComputerWorld by Gregg Keizer, Microsoft will offer the Internet Explorer 8 (IE) “SmartScreen Filter” technology on its Windows Live properties. SmartScreen Filter is a combination anti-phishing and malware blocking tool in IE8 that warns users when they try to reach a potentially-dangerous URL.

Microsoft has denied that there have been any more account hacks than usual. However, as claimed by Keizer, “numerous users of the service have claimed that their inboxes have been hacked, and that their contacts have been purged. Several users who used Twitter today to report that their Hotmail accounts had been hacked also wanted better security now.”

One such tweet, “[Microsoft] to give Hotmail a make-over [is] too little too late if the number of times my account has been hacked is an indicator,” tweeted James Milligan today, referring to a Wednesday story on The Daily Telegraph’s Web site about Hotmail improvements.

Resources:

http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9176986/Microsoft_touts_Hotmail_security_adds_users_complain_of_account_hacks

Microsoft Announces Hotmail Security Adds (NASDAQ: MSFT) was created by and is property of American Consumer News.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) had already ordered the machines prior to the security breach last week. The cost of each machine is said to be upwards of $170,000. The TSA also had plans to install 300 more of the machines by the year 2012.  Right now 19 airports in the United States use 40 full body scanners as part of security protocol.

Critics of the devices claim they are way too invasive for passengers to go through and the TSA claims on their website that the choice to go through these machines are optional. Passengers who refuse to participate in a full body scan are then subjected to other forms of more intensive search, such as being patted down by airport officials.

Airport body scan machines come in two forms. The first uses what is referred to as ‘backscatter technology’ produces an x-ray image of an individual. The other type of scan machine uses millimeter wave technology that results in a photo negative of the individual that is great with detail.

The privacy concerns voiced by passengers were met with the TSA’s promise to blur facial images ad properly delete produced images to keep information confidential.  But many critics still say the full body scanners should not be the only resource for heightening security measures at airports. Many feel that more analysis of the entire situation of security at airports be reviewed before more technology is brought in.

Others who support the full body scan measures believe that situations like the Christmas Day bombing attempt would have never been possible has the alleged terrorist had to undergo a full body screening. While the explosive hidden in the underwear of Umar Farouq AbdulMutallab may not have immediately been identified as an explosive from the scan, it may have signaled that something was amiss and required further investigation.

Concerns about increased wait time at the airport security counters are of concern to many consumers and the privacy issues may also present a problem for some fliers. The TSA continues to strive to meet security issues and in light of the recent bombing scare on US soil, many fliers may likely be willing to undergo the additional security screenings for now, even if the choice is no longer optional.

Prepare For A Full Body Scan was created by and is property of American Consumer News.

Spam Mail: Many of these companies sell your information to third-party companies. You may be excited to receive a free pen and paper set, but soon you will be receiving tons of different advertisements. Some of these advertisements may even lead to phishing websites. These websites are dangerous, and can steal your identity with just a few clicks. While the free things may be a cool treat, weeding through 50 emails asking you if you want to sign up for something is more of a pain than it’s worth.

Quality of Products: Sometimes the word “free” can lead you to sign up for something you really don’t need. Just because someone is giving away a free sample of dog food doesn’t mean you need it. Especially if you don’t have a dog! Plus, when will you ever use that free vodka label?

Fake Promotions: Some websites are set up specifically to steal your information under the pretense of “free” things. These sites can be very dangerous. If your information gets into the wrong hands, your identity could be stolen, or you mailbox could be full of different catalogs for things you will never need.

While there is a downside to searching for freebies, there are ways to protect yourself, and gain some cool items.

Sign Up For What You Need: Don’t just sign up for something because it’s free. Find things that you could actually use, like samples of laundry detergent, and only get those. That way, you don’t clutter your mailbox with junk, while you still get to enjoy something for free.

Double Check Websites: Make sure the freebie is connected to a legitimate website. Some freebies link back to nothing, or their URL is spelled incorrectly. “Gain detergent” could be missing a letter. If it is, the site is most likely a fake.

Use Fake Emails and Phone Numbers: In order to avoid annoying telemarketers, or loads of spam mail, use a fake number (555-3475), and create a junk email. That way any spam mail will be sent there, and your personal email can stay nice and clear.

If you follow these tips, you can stay safe online and enjoy freebies without going overboard!

Freebies – Worth Your Time? was created by and is property of American Consumer News.

Here are some myths and realities about online shopping.

The Up Close and Personal Myth

Many shoppers feel they need to eyeball and touch an item before they can buy it. While that may make sense for some items, like produce and such, it isn’t always a disadvantage. Most of the products for sale online also provide the opportunity for other customers to provide their own take on the product, both good and bad, that is available for other’s to read at any time. Not only can such a review give you confidence that a product is of high quality, it can also help your make decisions when choosing between multiple brands and styles.

Shipping Prices Are Too High

With the current cost of gasoline, this really doesn’t hold a lot of water. Even if the closest mall is on the next block, it still takes gas to start the car and make it to the parking lot. Many sites offer free shipping after a specific total has been reached or uses free shipping incentives for first time customers. Plus, when you shop online, there is no limit to the amount of stores you can visit. Try doing that in your car.

Sale Items Are Only Found In-Store

This is a big NO. In fact, there are often more deals found in the online store than in the real store. Many web stores offer a clearance section that shows all reduced and discounted merchandise. There are no dodging elbows and ladies in a panic in order to get the best store savings, especially during the peak holiday shopping season.

Sharing Personal Information is Dangerous

There are so many people who say that but still have no problem passing their credit or debit card over to the waiter or the store cashier. Technology has been working hard to provide the most secure outlets to protect customer information. A website is secure if it starts with the letters “https” before entering information. You also can call and place orders over the phone with many places through their customer service center.

Online shopping can save you money in other ways you may not have considered. There is typically no food court in your living room. Window shopping is limited to your monitor. You save time by not leaving the house. There are many other advantages that online shopping may have over the in-store experience, but it is really a matter of personal choice.

Online Shopping is a Money Saving Solution was created by and is property of American Consumer News.

Here are some tips to help keep your retirement from happening before the end of your life. The younger you start heading in the right direction, the better off you will be.

Stop Living Beyond Your Means

Especially now, during an economic crunch, people living beyond their means will never be able to properly prepare or save for retirement. It is an everyday, conscious decision to purchase only the things you need and forget the things you can live without. Perhaps taking less vacations, staying home to eat meals, and by cutting back on daily spending, you can start saving for retirement bit by bit.

Disregarding Savings Plans

If you are not contributing well to your 401k plan or other means of savings and investment accounts on a regular basis, you are missing out on prime opportunities to tuck away your hard-earned cash for your retirement.

Analyze Future Earnings

People who do not accurate estimate their income in future years may be seriously disappointed when it turns out they were not prepared for the future. You can not expect to fly by the seat of your pants when it comes to financial security. Many people only anticipate the good things in life and disregard the bad, such as potential job loss and increased rates of living.

Do Not Overlook Everything Retirement Encompasses

While many people imagine living a life of luxury on the golf courses of Florida during their retirement years, falling to plan for all aspects of a retirement plan can get you in real trouble. Scenarios that include long-term care options, medical expenses, as well as funeral expenses all need to be taken in to consideration before leaving your job for the good life.

 Again, it is important to remember retirement is a topic of concern for everybody, not just grandparents. The earlier you start saving, the earlier you can retire. By not planning and preparing for your retirement at the beginning of your working career, you can expect one thing for sure, you’ll be working a lot longer than you had hoped.

How to Improve Your Chances of Retiring was created by and is property of American Consumer News.

PayPal and a number of banks are offering one-time-use virtual debit and credit card numbers to their customers. The idea is that if you want to use your credit card but don’t completely trust the website you are visiting, you can request a one-time use number and designate a maximum amount that can be charged to it. The retailer you’re dealing with can charge your card once, the money is then taken out of your account or added to the balance of your credit card, and then the card number is invalid. That way if the retailer happened to store that number for later date and it was stolen, the number wouldn’t do anyone any good.

Using one-time-use virtual account numbers is great when you’re shopping at smaller online retailers and websites you’ve never been to before. For example, I recently purchased a copy of Age of Empires II to play with a couple of friends who had the game from a small gaming website. The product was only $8.00, so I wasn’t terribly concerned about the reputation of the site. I probably wouldn’t care if I was out $8.00, but if the retailer was unscrupulous and got a hold of my credit card number that I would care about. I hopped on to PayPal’s website, got a virtual debit card number, paid for the product, and went on with my life knowing that I hadn’t opened myself to any sort of security risk.

Research the retailer you are purchasing from and make sure they are reputable before giving them any personal information. Also make sure that there is a “lock” icon in the corner of your browser when entering your credit card number. That will indicate the connection is secure and encrypted. Virtual account numbers are not a be-all and end-all of keeping you safe when shopping online, but it is another line of defense you have available and you should make use of them when it makes sense to do so.

Prevent Identity Theft with One-Time Use Virtual Credit Cards was created by and is property of American Consumer News.