How to spot a FAKE ATM machine

Some simple steps on how to spot a FAKE ATM machine (applicable worldwide):

• Look out for glue around an ATM keypad or an ATM reader
• Run your fingers along the underside of the top of the ATM for any miniature camera holes (only one hole is needed directly over the keypad) or grills
• Look out for fake ATM readers (this is where you put your card in) where you do not see a flashing entry (i.e. flashing light)
• Never use an ATM when you see a pamphlet holder next to it – this can often contain a hidden camera (see image)
• Watch out for 'Shoulder Surfers'. Use one of your hands as a cover when using an ATM keypad or merchant chip and pin machine

Safe surfing folks!

Julian

Windows Genuine Version causing problems again

TIP: If you do NOT have a Windows Genuine Version we suggest you be aware that Microsoft is now including this notification tool (Windows Genuine Advantage - WGA) in all it's security updates. Click here to find out more.

For those who have a genuine Windows XP Professional version, but see the following:
You can safely remove the nag screens and notification windows by doing the following:

• Open TASK MANAGER - CTRL-ALT-DEL
• Right click on WgaTray.exe and a pop up will appear (do not click YES just yet)
• Search for WgaTray.exe in Explorer then right click - a pop up will appear (do not click YES just yet)
  
• With both pop ups next to each other, quickly click YES on both - this will remove WgaTray.exe from TASK MANAGER and delete WgaTray.exe from System32 folder
• Next: Search for wgalogon.dll in Explorer
• Rename wgalogon.dll wgalogon.dll.bak
• Right click on a blank space in "System32" and select "New" > "Text Document"
• Leave the text document empty and label it "WgaLogon.dll". Press Enter (on your keyboard).
• Finally reboot your computer.

Note: You must only do this if you have a genuine copy of Windows XP Professional and are experiencing 'WGA' notification problems. Also if you remove the WGA notifications you will be unable to download Microsoft Security updates. If you do have these problems we suggest you contact Microsoft directly. Click here.

Safe surfing folks!
Julian

How to protect your telephone identity

Fraudsters are always looking for new ways in which to social engineer your personal information. One way in which fraudsters can extract your personal information to commit identity fraud is by using a telephone.

The fraudster might pretend on a call to be an insurance salesman, creditor or someone from your bank. Everyone understands they must not divulge personal and financial information, but you would be amazed at how many people do!

How do you know when someone calls you that they are genuine? Well, let us tell you a little secret – you can use a ‘reverse phone lookup service’ which will allow you to find out specific information about the individual who called you (Note: only applicable in the US).

One additional unique facet of this service is that it also works for mobile phone numbers as well as unlisted numbers. Every call you receive will provide you with a number, which is the main purpose of the service.

One note worthy feature is the ability to disallow calls from blocked numbers, which will allow you to trace a telephone number with ease.

We suggest if you have been a victim of telephone identity fraud or suspect you might be, that you learn more by clicking here.

Safe surfing folks!

Source: ID Theft Protect