From the Desk of Chad M. Barr, CISSP, CISA All This Functionality in One Device! Mobile communication devices (includes Blackberrys, iPhones, smart phones in general) have become indispensable tools for today’s highly mobile society. Small and relatively inexpensive, these multifunction devices can be used not only for voice calls but also text messages, email, Internet…
From the Desk of Chad M. Barr, CISSP, CISA What is Phishing? Phishing is a scam which attempts to entice email recipients into clicking on a link that takes them to a bogus website. The website may prompt the recipient to provide personal information such as social security number, bank account number or credit card…
From the Desk of Chad M. Barr Is a Wireless Network Secure? Wireless networks are not as secure as the traditional “wired” networks, but you can minimize the risk on your wireless network (at home or at work) by following the tips below. How Does it Work? The standard set up for a wireless network…
From the Desk of Chad M. Barr Laptops are increasing in popularity for both business and personal use. The portability of laptops makes them extremely convenient. However, we must also be aware of the security risks from the loss or theft of laptops, and take proper precautions. The potential loss is twofold; the loss of…
From the Desk of Chad M. Barr, CISSP, CISA October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month. This national campaign’s goal is to increase the public’s awareness of cyber security and cyber crime issues so users can take precautions to avoid these threats on the Internet. Children present unique security risks when they use a computer….
From the Desk of Chad M. Barr, CISSP, CISA Organizations rely on information for all of their core business functions. They collect, process, store and transmit all kinds of citizen and customer information, and sometimes that information is confidential or sensitive in some way. The March 2007 Cyber Security Tip on “Safeguarding Your Data” discussed…
From the Desk of Chad M. Barr, CISSP, CISA How do you safeguard sensitive/confidential data? The manner of protection often depends on what kind of data you are safeguarding, how important or sensitive it is to you, to your organization or your customers. The following tips will help you become aware of how to protect…
From the Desk of Chad M. Barr, CISSP, CISA Cyberbullying, or harassment through electronic messaging, can affect adults at work or at home, but it is more common for youth to be exposed to this dangerous behavior. Cyberbullying can occur via cell phone text messaging, email, instant messaging, or even within online games and social…
From the Desk of Chad M. Barr, CISSP, CISA The popularity of social networking sites continues to increase, especially among teenagers and young adults. The nature of these sites introduces security risks, so you should take certain precautions. What are social networking sites? Social networking sites, sometimes referred to as “friend-of-a-friend” sites, build upon the…
From the Desk of Chad M. Barr How can I be sure files are erased? Data can be stored electronically in multiple formats and locations. Data sometimes includes sensitive documents or possibly data containing personally identifiable information such as a social security number, credit card information, or health related information. For example, the initial information…
