Do you use online reviews to make a purchasing decision? Whether we’re shopping for a book, a vacation resort, or a new car, those of us who shop online go looking for reviews made by others. Those online reviews can be very helpful, but are they always reliable? In a word—no.There are really two types of online reviews. The first is that which is posted on the product page … [Read more...] about Reviewing online reviews — are they naughty or nice?
scams
Santa letter email scams are back for the holidays
The first Santa letter email arrived the other day. It reminded me that parents looking for a unique gift might see the Santa letter email as an opportunity to create a memorable holiday. In a utopian world, that email signaled the beginning of a season filled with joy and giving. Sadly, it also signals the start of the holiday scam season. I first covered Santa letter email … [Read more...] about Santa letter email scams are back for the holidays
Five best holiday shopping tips to stay safe
The holiday shopping season starts earlier every year. Unfortunately, the season of peace and love also brings plenty of opportunities for scammers to take advantage of unsuspecting consumers. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) posted a list of ten holiday shopping tips on November 20. I’ve pared down the list to my five favorites. Unless otherwise noted, the links in my Five … [Read more...] about Five best holiday shopping tips to stay safe
Click4Support scam shut down by FTC
On November 13, 2015, a tech support company operating what's being called the Click4Support scam was shut down. The shutdown was a cooperative effort between the states of Connecticut and Pennsylvania, and Federal Trade Commission (FTC). There are plenty of other scams like this one out there. That makes the methods used in the Click4Support scam to bilk consumers out of $17.5 … [Read more...] about Click4Support scam shut down by FTC
Three Internet safety tips for a connected world
The Internet isn’t a safe place. It’s filled with hackers, spammers, scammers, and more. As part of National Cyber Security Awareness Month, StopThinkConnect.org wants everyone to be aware of the dangers out “in the wild.” We can all use good Internet safety tips.This infographic gives Internet safety tips and also shows that 91% of data breaches in the business world stem … [Read more...] about Three Internet safety tips for a connected world