Are you doing any shopping online these days? Statistics have shown that crime goes up in a down economy, and credit and debit card users are often the victims. Identity theft is on the rise: Last year 9.9 million consumers had their data stolen, a 22%jump from 2007. Here are a few ways to better protect your wallet:
Shop the big names: With more than 70 retailers and payment processors since 2006 reporting breached customer data, it’s no surprise that consumers look for certified safety seals such as VeriSign and Trust Guard on retail Web sites. But researchers say not all certification programs can ensure that retailers will follow security or privacy guidelines. Phil Hochmuth, a senior analyst at research firm Yankee Group, which did a study on seals, cites an “overall lack of Read the rest of this entry »
