Security Consulting & Personal Protection Services

09/07/2019

Info. concerning ISA's travel security services:



Myths There are many myths and half-truths about crisis, disruption and threats within the travel management sector. Much of this misinformation has originated from travelers themselves, media, travel managers, friends and family or so called “experts”. For example, many travelers and planners are focused on terrorism. The reality is, you have a very, very small chance of being exposed or affected directly by a terrorist act. It doesn’t mean you should discount it as a threat altogether but it shouldn’t dominate your plans or processes if not a proportional threat to you and your travelers. Conversely, almost everyone overlooks motor vehicle accidents. Yet, they happen far more frequently, can have a devastating effect on travelers and are the least common plan contained within company travel management departments. Travelers and travel managers must be prepared, educated and have supporting plans for any event that has the potential to delay, disrupt or harm the traveler or the business. The most common events include:

Motor vehicle accidents
Airline delays or cancellations
Airport closures or disruptions
Transport delays
Bad weather
Sickness and illness
Petty crimes
Hotel fires
Political disputes
Demonstrations and gatherings
Call us if you are in need of travell security in your
business & leisure voyages.

01/20/2019

Is the Popular Mobile Payment Service Cash App Safe?
By Gloria Todisco, January 14, 2019
Cash App is a mobile payment service that allows users to transfer money to one another using a mobile phone app.
Square Cash is the most popular cash transfer app, but there are several others such as Google Wallet, Venmo, Zelle, and Paypal. These apps let you send cash directly to other people via email or within the app using a debit or credit card.
Most people are “squaring up” for one thing or another. Going out to eat, movies, even paying a friend back money owed. New surveys show that 60% of people use cash apps and if you’re a millennial or younger the number rises to 80%. It’s like the “Western Union” of the millennials. All these apps work on IOS and Android as well as via web browsers.
Safety Tips While Using Cash App
• It is not recommended to use cash apps with strangers.
• Use a credit card not your bank account gives you some recourse.
• Set a cash PIN and enable Touch ID/Face ID.
• Use different passwords for all accounts.
• Encrypted data and options like CVV entry add a layer of protection.
• Always enable two-factor authentication when available.
• Make sure your phone has a passcode lock.
• Set an account security password with your mobile network provider.
• Do not purchase services or goods with cash app as it might be a scam.
• Beware of phishing; do not open or click to unsolicited emails with links or attachments nor matter how legitimate they look.
• Scams and frauds are an unfortunate hazard in this digital age.
• Never store cardholder data on any systems online.
• Always expect and look for notification after a transaction and verify its validity.
• As Cash App has become more popular and hackers become more sophisticated, the risk of hackers when using cash apps will only increase. Pay attention and be alert. Make sure you regularly check your accounts and personal security information.
• If you suspect fraudulent activity when using Cash App, please contact Social Catfish to assist you.

01/04/2019

How Do Instagram Accounts Get Hacked?
By Jen D., January 3, 2019
Is 1 billion a large sum to imagine? Well, as of June 2018, that is precisely how many users Instagram reports having. Although even a gigantic number like 1 billion is not as many as Facebook – taking the lead with over 2 billion, Instagram is a goldmine of opportunity for hackers as it can mean big money!
Why Hack Instagram?
Hackers gravitate to the Instagram app for its popularity and ease of use – they can get in and out. Once they’ve compromised your account, hackers will promote products, redirect traffic, steal your private information, or even embarrass you by posting personal photographs!
One of the biggest finds that a hacker can get from Instagram is your password. Once they have your name and password, they can hack into more of your accounts eventually leading up to your credit card or bank information. This is how identity fraud starts and the results can be devastating.
How Do Instagram Accounts Get Hacked?
1. Public Wifi & Shared Computers
If you let anyone use your computer, they could hack into your accounts. The same is true for shared WiFi and hotspots. This can be done through fake WiFi, packet sniffing, and session hijacking (sidejacking).
You don’t have to be a computer expert to understand that the more access you give people to your data, the more opportunities hackers have to steal your information and use it malevolently! Use a secure private server and keep your hotspot password strong.
2. Website & App Vulnerability
Websites and apps aren’t perfect. Just as hackers look for loopholes daily, websites continually try to keep hackers out. The site or app only has to have a small data or computer ‘bug’ or vulnerability to allow hackers access. This happened to Instagram in 2017. Although the bug was fixed quickly, a massive amount of data was taken from users on the site.
The stolen data was then listed as ‘for sale’ on Bitcoin, at $10 per/record. This was called Doxagram and the information received was garnished from over 6 million users. According to Inc.com, some of those whose data was stolen were famous names including Beyonce, Kim Kardashian, Leonardo DiCaprio, etc.
3. Public Email Addresses & Phone Numbers
If someone has your email address and phone number, they are off to a good start. They may target you on social media or do a simple search of your name, to collect more information. If you can, regularly scan the internet and search your name, usernames, and phone number to see what information is public and viewable by anyone.
If you do see information that you want to stay private, switch your accounts to ‘private,’ block suspicious users, contact the site publishing the data, and take steps to delete your online information. To see what others can know about you, use Social Catfish:
4. Strong Passwords
Not only should you regularly change and update passwords, but your passwords should be strong and complex. Use numbers, upper/ lowercase letters, special characters, and pick passwords no one would guess. Do not trust calls, emails, or texts from Instagram, that ask you to reset your password. If you have any problems, go to Instagram and report the problem or ask for help.
Although you can’t control every factor, particularly those who happen behind the scenes on apps like Instagram, you can avoid unnecessary problems. Do this by securing your account and being smart about the information you share online. It’s never too late to start being safety savvy!

12/21/2018

Cybersecurity for Small Business

Best Cyber Security Tech of 2018 for Businesses
By Jen D., December 17, 2018
Businesses of any size can benefit from using security technology. Cybersecurity protects systems connected through the internet from online cyber attacks, using hardware, data, and software programs.
However, for medium-sized and smaller businesses, picking the correct technology is imperative. As artificial intelligence becomes more advanced and centralized management plays a key role, top cybersecurity companies are creating new and better products.
Want to learn what you can do for free? What about the most affordable and effective tech tools for your business?
Let’s review the best cybersecurity techniques used by companies like yours in 2018, which will set you off to a good start for 2019. We also discuss several of the top cybersecurity companies, according to security.

Small Business Network Security Tech
The government takes cyber security seriously. Enough so that it had included a fact sheet of recommendations from the Federal Communications Commission or the FCC. According to the FCC’s tip sheet:
1. Employees should be trained in basic security principles. Have a list of your company’s security rules and techniques to avoid breaches and risks.
Require all employees to follow your rules and have consequences if they violate your code of conduct. Part of your security principles will be your network requiring strong and frequently upgraded passwords.
2. Upgraded systems are a must. Just as cars require clean engines to run smoothly, keep your computer system spotless. This means using antivirus software that is up-to-date. Your well-protected browser and operating system will help w**d out online threats such as viruses and malware.
3. Your internet connection needs firewall security. Not sure what a firewall is? Consider it an essential security measure for your business. A firewall is comprised of programs to prevent outside entities from accessing sensitive data inside your private network. Not only does this apply to on-site, in-office personal your off-site and work at home employees should also have a firewall.
Other techniques include creating a mobile device action plan, having regular backups of valuable data, securing your WiFi networks, using authentication for passwords and log-ins, and limiting employee access to sensitive data (social security numbers, etc.).
You can see what data of yours is available online (phone number, username, etc.) at Social Catfish and also read more from the FCC’s tip sheet at https://www.fcc.gov/general/cybersecurity-small-business.
Whether you’ve been following the FCC’s techniques or are just getting started, some of the companies considered the best in cybersecurity are, as follows:
Cisco – located in San Jose, California, Cisco was founded in 1984. Cisco is a name that many are familiar with as the company has taken over many smaller security vendors and now offers a comprehensive lineup of products.
These include the Firepoint Series: firewalls, NGIPS, Management Center; Cisco: Umbrella, Advanced Malware protection, and Cloudlock.
Is Cisco the network leader and largest worldwide security vendor?
Yes, according to them!

Palo Alto Networks – headquartered in Santa Clara, California, Palo Alto Network was founded in 2005 and according to online magazines like eSecurity Planet, has annual revenue of $1.8 billion. Their best cybersecurity products are their next-generation firewall, endpoint protection, application framework, UEBA, cloud security, & threat detection and prevention. Although Palo Alto Networks is not alone in considering itself a cybersecurity leader, being the go-to company for 85 of the Fortune 100 companies is a significant claim to fame!
One of its most influential products is the Security Operating Platform which integrates Palo Alto’s products along with partner and customer apps, to guarantee superb protection of company endpoints, networks, and deployments to the cloud.
Symantec – headquartered in Mountain View, California, Symantec was founded in 1982 and has annual revenue of $4.019 billion. Used by over 350,000 businesses, you should consider Symantec if you want products that are geared for small companies which incorporate their products into an Integrated Cyber Defense platform.
You may be familiar with Symantec’s products under the Norton and LifeLock brand names. These include endpoint security, encryption, antivirus, email security, network security, web gateway, cloud security, antivirus, identity theft protection, and website security.
Regardless of the tools, techniques, platforms, and providers you use to help with cybersecurity, be diligent! Also, upgrade software frequently and stay apprised of new developments! Your company’s cyber-safety is a priority.

The Internet allows businesses of all sizes and from any location to reach new and larger markets and provides opportunities to work more efficiently by using computer-based tools. Whether a company is thinking of adopting cloud computing or just using email and maintaining a website, cybersecurity....

12/19/2018

Look out for These 5 Words with Friends Scams
By Jen D., December 5, 2018
Words with Friends is a popular app that combines the way you used to play “Scrabble” with fun and innovative new rules, in a crossword style game! You can play Words with Friends on your computer or smart device. As the name suggests, you can challenge your friends and online contacts to see who is the best wordsmith!
Unfortunately, the app has also become a hotspot for scammers and spammers. Users frequently challenge their family or Facebook contacts but also get matched against strangers. This gives scammers the ‘in’ that they need to contact potential victims.
1. Chatty Strangers
While regular users might make occasional comments to someone they play against (something along the lines of “Oh no, I have all vowels!”), it is rare for most who use the app to message frequently. If someone is very chatty, use caution.
Consider looking up the username the player is using on Social Catfish and see if it’s linked to an actual person. Although users do sometimes make online friends through the app, it’s more often an exception than the rule.
2. Chatty Strangers Who Want Money or Love
Use particular caution if the user you are matched with (or who starts a conversation and game with you) has model quality photographs, gives you immediate praise, treats the app like a dating site, or says they usually live locally but are working overseas. Each of those actions follow the blueprint for being scammed and innocent users fall for it all the time. If someone is interested in a love match, don’t be caught off-guard.
First, verify their identity through Social Catfish or if you suspect they are a scammer, block them and alert the app. If a user directs you to message them elsewhere, such as through social media platforms or Google Hangouts, beware. This may be a way to get to know more about you or because they may soon be caught and kicked off Words with Friends.
If someone falls “in love” with you, without ever meeting, they are more often than not a scammer. Dating and romance scammers know what to say to encourage trust and strong emotions from you. This is because they do it all the time and leave many heartbroken victims in their wake.
Do not ever give money to anyone you meet through Words with Friends. Online reports show users out as much as $60,000 from overseas scammers impersonating an online date or friend they grew to trust.
3. Outside Links
Bots love dating apps and apps in general. This is because they can match with multiple users and send messages with links you might be tempted to click. If a “user” made small talk and then attempted to direct you away from the app or to a paid service, you are dealing with a bot.
4. Married People
If you’re single, you might need an online date or use a dating app. If you’re unhappily married, you probably won’t post your name and photograph on Tinder or Bumble, but you might play Words with Friends and look for someone to pursue. If you suspect someone on the app is lying about not being married, search for their name and other details online.
5. Stalkers
You use caution and filter the people you add or follow on Instagram or Facebook. On Words with Friends, you can be matched up with users you know nothing about.
While you might not know them, if you use the same username on Words with Friends that you do for your other accounts, someone with evil intentions or who is following you online without your consent, might try and find you. Don’t share information that could let someone know your habits, location, work or home address.

12/12/2018

This Is How You Identify GoFundMe Scams
By Jen D., October 15, 2018
Over the last few years, GoFundMe accounts have become extremely popular to assist people in times of crisis. It started out as a way for people to donate to a honeymoon fund for upcoming nuptials of a friend. Instead of buying a toaster as a wedding gift, you can go online and contribute to their hotel stay, airline flights etc.
Now GofundMe accounts are set up for everything from a catastrophic accident and even death of a person to someone needing tires for their car. GoFundMe accounts have delivered wonderful results of providing financial aid by contributions from family and friends to many, many people who have truly needed the relief in times of tragedy.
7 Ways to Identify GoFundMe Scams
Sadly, like everything else in our social media and internet world, there are people who take advantage of this wonderful idea of helping our loved ones. GoFundMe scammers can set up accounts for events that have not actually happened or they can be strangers looking at news articles and setting up GoFundMe accounts for incidents that have actually happened, but they have no affiliation with the victim and are collecting the money with no intention of the victim or their family receiving the funds.
While there is no foolproof way to ensure that you are contributing to a legitimate GoFundMe and that your donation will be received by the person you intend it to, but there are warning signs to be aware of to help protect yourself from becoming a victim of GoFundMe scams.
• GoFraudMe is a website that helps identify fraudulent GoFundMe accounts. Here are some red flags to look for to prevent you from falling for a scam.
• Look for specific details about the GoFundMe organizers connection to the family of the victim.
• Look for multiple images of the supposed victim and the organizer.
• Look for a video posted by the organizer.
• Do a reverse image search of the images posted on the GoFundMe page.
• See if the organizers page is brand new and how many friends they have.
There are hundreds of thousands of GoFundMe accounts set up each month. GoFundMe says that they can not guarantee the validity of accounts, but they started a GoFundMeGuarantee last year and they will refund up to $1000 to a donor that requests it for a campaign that GoFundMe deems fraudulent. Report any suspicious account to GoFundMe by clicking “Report Campaign” under the campaign description and the account will be placed on hold while it is investigated. There are specific parameters for what constitutes fraud.
It is human nature for most of us to want to help someone in need. GoFundMe accounts are typically posted within 24 hours of the catastrophic incident that has taken place. If you are not familiar with the organizer, use these helpful tips listed above to ensure validity before you contribute your hard earned money to a despicable scammer who is taking advantage of people in need and the kindness of others. Please contact Social Catfish for assistance before you become a victim of a GoFundMe scam.

12/06/2018

Voicemail Hacking: How Does It Work?
By Jen D., October 4, 2018

Did you know that hackers have developed a way to gain access to your online accounts through your mobile services’ voicemail? Even if it has been ages since you listened to a voicemail message, you are still at risk! If you suspect that this has happened to you, go to Social Catfish for an immediate phone number search. Otherwise, follow along as we teach you how and why hackers are hijacking your voicemail.
How Does Voicemail Hacking Work?
Perhaps this describes you: You handle your online privacy correctly. You use complex passwords, 2 step authentication, and have a secure home network. Unfortunately, while most people put time and care into selecting strong email account passwords, less care is given when picking a PIN number. You might think that PIN numbers only apply to your ATM bank card, which is safely in your wallet, but scammers can now hack into your accounts through your voicemail PIN!
It’s Easy: Hackers choose voice accounts as they’re easy. First, PIN numbers are usually shorter on voicemail systems, sometimes only 4 numbers long. People frequently choose their birth year, a list of consecutive numbers, or repetitive numbers, e.x., 1987, 1234, 4567, 0000, 9999, which makes for an easy hack. There is, according to 2012 research by Data Genetics, a 22% chance that a PIN number will be guessed just by entering in any of the 20 most common PIN’s. If your email or bank accounts had a 22% chance of being hacked just by entering in 20 options, they would not be very secure.
Default PIN Numbers: If you don’t use your voicemail at all, the hacker will find it even easier to hack into! When a voicemail hasn’t been set up yet, a default password is used by the company. According to research done by Martin Viggo’s the main cell phone carriers use these (default) codes: At&T: 111111. T-Mobile & Verizon: Phone number last 4 digits. Sprint: Phone number last 7 digits.
Multiple Attempts: If you think that you’d notice a strange or spoofed phone number calling you over and over, attempting to hack into your account, think again. Mobile or corporate voicemail systems typically allow hackers to try multiple PIN numbers at a time, until they find the correct one. It is also possible to hack in without calling the phone owner directly, by just going through the carrier’s system. These direct voicemail access phone numbers are listed online as: AT&T: 408-307-5049. T-Mobile: 805-637-7243. Sprint: 513-225-6245. Verizon: 301-802-6245.
Apps: For a low cost (less that $50 through various voicemail hacks), hackers can use software and apps to give them around a 50% success rate of hacking into your voice accounts. Multiple PIN’s will be entered at once, per call, to avoid alerting the phone owner of the hack.
What Information Can They Obtain:
Have you ever lost your password for an account, such as Gmail? If so, you were likely able to receive a text or voice call with a Google generated code to reset your password. Imagine that this code was left on your voicemail. Through your hacked voicemail, a hacker could reset your email password and through that email account access your social security information, bank and financial accounts, PayPal, credit cards, and more! Before long you could be looking at complete identity theft!

hat Information Can They Obtain:
Have you ever lost your password for an account, such as Gmail? If so, you were likely able to receive a text or voice call with a Google generated code to reset your password. Imagine that this code was left on your voicemail. Through your hacked voicemail, a hacker could reset your email password and through that email account access your social security information, bank and financial accounts, PayPal, credit cards, and more! Before long you could be looking at complete identity theft!

How To Protect Yourself:
1. Go to Social Catfish and search your phone number to see where it appears online, in connection with your name or accounts, and remove it.
2. Make sure PIN numbers are random and complicated.Do not give your phone number out online, unless a site is very secure and providing it is absolutely necessary.
3. Try to use an alternate or virtual phone number, to avoid linking directly to your carrier’s voicemail access.
While the risk can’t be completely eliminated, following these steps will keep you safer! Know someone who might be at risk? Share this article with them or on your social media accounts!