Monday, April 15, 2013

Stump the Identity Thief: 7 Tips to Create a Strong Password

According to the Internal Revenue Service, identity theft and credit card fraud are growing global concerns. From phishing scams to sophisticated hacking rings, cyber thieves continue to develop creative ways to compromise your personal information.
Internet security can be tenuous and, at times, easily breached, and both the IRS and Federal Trade Commission recommend you safeguard your personal information with a strong password. Here are seven password tips that will help you stump an identity thief and keep your information and financial accounts protected.
1. Don’t use your dog’s name. The IRS suggests that you refrain from using any personal information in your password. That includes Social Security numbers, maiden names, birthdays, anniversaries, the names of children, pets, or anything else that can be guessed, researched or discovered by a hacker.
2. Make them hunt through the “haystack.” Steve Gibson, security expert and president of Gibson Research, suggests using a password that is long and contains upper-case and lower-case letters and special characters. Using various types of characters in a long password increases the number of combinations a hacker has to try in order to crack your password. Gibson likens these attempts to figure out your password to finding a needle in a haystack; so, to hide that needle, you should use more characters, and characters of different types, to make the “haystack” larger.
3. Old passwords = vulnerable. According to the United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team (USCERT), it’s a good idea to change your password on a regular basis, especially after accessing accounts via a public computer. If you keep the same password to a certain website for many years, identity thieves have that much more opportunity to decode it. A rule of thumb is to change your password every 45 days. It’s especially important to change your password after using it on a public computer, because browsers on public computers can, in some cases, store your passwords, making them vulnerable to theft.
4. Try a pass phrase. If you feel your memory is sharp, then consider creating a pass phrase. A pass phrase is a long string of unrelated letters, numbers and punctuation marks. While a pass phrase can be difficult for a user to remember, this type of password is also very difficult to crack.
5. Use a sentence. If you don’t think you’re going to be able to remember a cryptic string of characters, one idea is to think of your password as a sentence and then use the first letter of every word, mixing in caps and lower-case letters and a few numbers that you can remember, as the actual password.
6. Memorize all passwords. Do not store the information in a wallet, in a purse or on a cellphone. If you need to write the password down, be sure it’s stored in a secure location.
7. Do not use the same password for work and personal accounts. In fact, the USCERT recommends that you use a different password for each website account you access. That way, if one of these passwords becomes compromised, the thief will not have access to a second account.
While identity theft and credit card fraud are a risk, you don’t need to feel vulnerable or unprotected. Use these seven tips to create a strong password, and you’ll not only stand a better chance of stumping an identity thief, but you could also give yourself greater peace of mind when it comes to Internet security.

Looking for ways to defend yourself against identity theft? Consider identity restoration coverage.

Monday, April 8, 2013

Not All Smoke Alarms are Equal: Knowing the Difference Could Save Your Life

Wednesday, April, 3rd, 2013 at 6:08 am

You change the batteries in your smoke alarms twice a year, and test them every month. But do you know what type of smoke alarms you have? Or, that having one kind over another can make a difference in getting out safely in a home fire?
There are two chief smoke alarm types, and each has a sensor that detects smoke and fire differently depending on the origin of the fire.

Ionization vs. photoelectric smoke alarms

The most common smoke alarm type, Ionization alarms are generally more responsive to a flaming fire ( for instance, when a lit candle tips over and ignites a towel), according to Underwriters Laboratories. These alarms use “ions,” or electrically charged particles, to detect smoke in the air. UL says that, because they are inexpensive, ionization detectors are the most commonly found smoke alarms in North American homes.
The second type of detector is the photoelectric smoke alarm, which uses a light beam to detect the presence of smoke. According to UL, these alarm types are more effective at sounding when a fire originates from a smoldering source, like a lit cigarette that falls into a couch cushion. Smoldering fires can fill a home with dangerous gases before a fire ever erupts.

Which smoke alarm type is best?

So, which alarm to choose? While both types of smoke detectors are designed to detect any house fire, no matter the source, each technology has its advantages and can offer an earlier warning over the other, depending on the origin of a fire.
The challenge is that it’s impossible to predict which type of fire could erupt in your home, which is why the National Fire Protection Association says the best protection is offered by having both alarm technologies in your home.
There are a couple of ways to get this done.
If your existing detectors are ionization smoke alarms, you can purchase photoelectric smoke alarms and install one next to each ionization unit. If you don’t know what type you have, check your owner’s manual. (Or, try this tip: Take the smoke alarm down and look at the back. Because ionization alarms all contain a trace amount of a radioactive material, Americium 241, they contain a warning about the material on each alarm. If you see this warning on your device, you have an ionization unit.)
Another option: If budget allows, consider replacing all of your existing smoke alarms with dual-sensor devices, which combine both ionization and photoelectric technologies in a single unit.

Maintenance is key, regardless of type

Knowing the type of smoke alarm you have is clearly an important part of fire safety, but experts also warn that, regardless of type, smoke alarms won’t protect you if they’re not working properly.
According to UL, an estimated 20 percent of homes have detectors that do not work or are missing batteries, and two-thirds of reported residential fire deaths occur in homes without working smoke alarms, or with no smoke alarms at all.
So, start by making sure you have the right number of smoke alarms in the right places. The NFPA recommends a smoke detector in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area and on every level of your home (smoke rises, so install them high on the walls).
Then, set reminders to swap out the batteries on each unit at least once a year, and to test the units monthly.
Are your smoke alarms ready to alert you to a home fire?
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For advice on how to help keep your family safe during all sorts of emergencies, visit Allstate.com

Monday, April 1, 2013

The silence of suicide

By Arianne Brown, ksl.com Contributor

March 31st, 2013 @ 8:01pm

Photo Gallery »

SALT LAKE CITY — The other day, when my husband came home from work, he told me that something terrible had happened in our community. A 15-year-old girl had died from self-inflicted injuries. She had taken her own life.
When I heard the news, my heart ached for her. I hurt, thinking of all the torment this young girl must have gone through in the days, weeks, months and perhaps even years leading up to her death. Then my thoughts turned to her family. My heart sank. How were they doing? How were they feeling? What was in store for them in the coming days, weeks, months and years?
Although I do not know this family, nor the situation surrounding the young girl's death, I understand much of what they may have gone through, as well as what is in store. There is one word that describes it all, and that word is “silence.”
I know this because I have been through it.

As if the grief and guilt weren't enough, we were suddenly one of "those families" who had someone commit that unspeakable act — the unspeakable act that nobody wants to talk about.

Nearly seven years ago, my family was shaken up by the sudden and unexpected death of my oldest sister. She was a beautiful, funny, smart, educated woman. Above all, she was a mother to three beautiful and perfect children — one of the best mothers I have ever met. She was so loving and patient — everything that a mother should be.
A few years prior to her death, things started to get quiet. She didn't speak much. She didn't call as often. When we spoke, things were brief but sweet; just very quiet. There were times when she spoke of difficult things that were happening in her life, but never in a way that would indicate what was to come … or so I thought at the time.
On Nov. 5, 2006, she slipped quietly away from this earth after taking her own life — quietly, silently … gone.

A pencil sketch done by a friend after my sister passed. (Credit: Jean Keaton, www.jeankeatonart.com)

Like many victims of suicide — and I say “victims” because even though they did commit the act that took their life, there were many outside factors that had influenced their decision — the decision to “go” is not telegraphed for the world to know. In fact, most go just as my sister did: quietly, as to not disturb, hoping to leave this earth as if they had never entered.
Those of us she left, known clinically as “suicide survivors,” were left with the whys and what-ifs. We were confronted with the guilt of what we could have done differently, and longing to ask the one person with the answers. … Silence. She's gone.
As if the grief and guilt weren't enough, we were suddenly one of “those families” who had someone commit that unspeakable act — the unspeakable act that nobody wants to talk about.
We are now silent.
All too often, survivors are forced into seclusion. When asked how our loved one died, there is a hesitation, and many times a sense of shame. What do you say? How much do you say? Do they really want to hear it? Will they judge me? Will they judge her? So, we remain silent — silently mourning the loss of our loved one.
Suicide is the silent killer. So many each year fall victim to this terrible tragedy, and even more “survivors” are left suffering in silence.
When confronted with someone who may be suicidal, or with someone who is a “survivor,” lend an ear, be a friend and don't let them suffer in silence.

Monday, March 25, 2013

How to Make Your Small Business Look Big

As a small business owner, you have passion for what you do, and the confidence that you can do it well. But it’s also important to have certain key markers of professionalism in place, so customers can have equal confidence in your work (and you can start growing your client base as a result).
At SurePayroll, many of our customers run businesses with as few as one to 10 employees. Some have small offices; others work from home. Sometimes, the owner is the only employee.
So, how do they compete in a tough economy and crowded marketplace? The answer is that they don’t have to look small just because they only have a few employees. Here are some simple ideas gleaned from our customers that can help your own small business instill big business confidence:

Use Technology Wisely

If you’re considering outsourcing, consider only those services that aren’t core to your business. Whether it’s tracking shipments, getting contracts signed, managing customers or running payroll, most of these services can be handled safely and efficiently online.

Make Your Website Count

A professional, easy-to-navigate website is no longer a luxury. It’s expected. But when customers come to your site and see that it’s clean and well designed, they’re not going to question where your business is located (perhaps in a home office) or how many employees you have (maybe only one).
When hiring a web designer, be sure that you look at work done for other companies, and make sure it holds up to what you envision for your own.

Be Social

Part of this is social media. It’s become fairly standard to have Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and even Google+ pages. They’re easy to set up and can provide a nice outlet to promote your business and also connect with customers. It’s free advertising, really.
The only thing to keep in mind is that, once you create a social media presence, it won’t look good if it suddenly drops off. So make sure you’re ready to start, and that you can put forth the time to manage the pages like any big business would.
The second part of being social is actually getting out and meeting people. Whether it’s at a trade show, seminar, or charity event, get out and actually shake some hands. It lends a face to your business, sets the stage for potential partnerships with other businesses and frequently spurs that word-of-mouth endorsement small business owners crave.

Keep the Home Part at Home

If you do run a home-based business, there’s no need to make that known. The likelihood is most of your client interactions will be at remote locations, over the phone or online. Unless you’re asked directly, it’s not information you have to share. As long as you treat your customers and vendors well, they’re not going to know the difference.
Now, none of this means you can’t run your business wearing a pair of slippers and a tracksuit if you’re so inclined. As long as you’re good at what you do, no one has to be the wiser. In fact, it’s probably never been easier to run a business efficiently without the help of a large staff.
With technology, social media and the Web, you can accomplish almost anything.
The author, Scott Brandt, is vice president of marketing at SurePayroll, Inc. For more small business and payroll tips, visit our blog at http://blog.surepayroll.com.

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Hard work goes into every success. Talk to an agent about small business insurance to help protect all that you’ve earned.

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Monday, March 18, 2013

Super Heroes

While typically categorized as such, insurance agents may consider themselves helping those in need and protecting good people during stressful, uncertain times. Who are we to disagree? Sometimes the truth lies in the eye (or mind) of the beholder.

Monday, March 11, 2013

Minimize Your Gas Bill with 5 Toasty Alternatives

Wednesday, February, 27th, 2013 at 6:00 am

Tags: Condo, House, Savings, Winter

My almost-2-year-old son is a fabulous singer. His new favorite song is the Christmas classic “Baby It’s Cold Outside.” He likes to belt it out whenever we’re walking out to the car because it’s winter in Michigan and, baby, it IS cold outside.
The other problem with Michigan winter is that it’s pretty darn cold inside, too. And since we’re not millionaires, raising the temperature via central heating isn’t always the best option. If you’re in the same boat and you’d like to stay warm without going into debt, consider some alternative measures to keep yourself warm. Before you touch that thermostat, here’s how you can stay a little warmer without cranking up the heat.

Bake Something

Winter and fresh chocolate chip cookies go together like campfires and s’mores. A chilly day isn’t complete until you’ve baked up a batch of gooey chocolate chip cookies, mouthwatering brownies, cheerful confetti cake, rich red velvet cheesecake… oh sorry, where was I? Oh yes — if you’re considering hibernation to cope with the cold, you’ll need to stock up on calories! Heavenly treats can warm the soul. (One thing to remember, though: While using the oven to bake may naturally help warm up your kitchen, don’t ever consider using the oven as a space heater. It can pose a carbon monoxide hazard.)

Get Moving

Now that you’ve gobbled your fresh-from-the-oven baked goods, you’ll need to get some exercise. The best way to free your veins of ice is to get your heart pumping. Clean the house. Pop in an exercise DVD. Play “freeze tag” with the kids (freeze tag, get it?). Getting out from under the blankets when it’s cold in the house is a bit like jumping into an unheated pool, but once you’re in motion, chilly limbs will be a thing of the past.

Let the Sunshine In

Sunshine can improve your metabolism, up your energy levels, lower your blood pressure, and even warm your house! A room full of natural light can make the coldest home look and feel much, much warmer. Interior blinds are the perfect way to make the winter sun work for you. When the sunshine hits the window, open the slats to let the heat and light stream in. When the sun is gone, close the blinds to keep the heat in and the cold out.

Reverse Your Ceiling Fan

Ceiling fans: Not just for summer. Once cooler temperatures hit, flip the reverse switch on your ceiling fan so that it moves clockwise. This way, your fan will force the hot air down to the floor. Your heater may therefore work more efficiently because the room will be more evenly heated. Just make sure to use a low fan speed to avoid drafts.

Stop Cold at the Source

You should’ve winterized your home months ago, but the good news is, it’s not too late. You can start by using caulking and weather stripping around your windows and doors to seal off leaks and prevent drafts. Check out my article on the Quicken Loans Zing Blog for more detailed information on winterizing your home. You’ll be amazed at how much warmer your home feels after just a few minutes’ worth of work.
Saving on your heating bill doesn’t mean that you have to open yourself up to the possibility of frostbite. With a few simple changes, and a little bit of action, you can make it through the coldest of winters without letting your gas bill skyrocket.

Christine Bilger is a writer at Quicken Loans and she loves blogging about family, personal finance, and mortgage tips on the Quicken Loans Zing Blog.

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Monday, March 4, 2013

5 Tips to Protect Your Identity at Tax Time

Whether you owe money or are expecting a refund, preparing your tax return on your own or hiring a professional, tax time can be, well, taxing. The last thing you probably want to worry about is identity thieves tapping into your financial accounts, opening new lines of credit or committing other types of theft or fraud.

But according to Identity Theft 911, tax season is a prime opportunity for identity thieves. W-2s and other Internal Revenue Service tax forms contain a wealth of information–everything from Social Security numbers to financial account information–that can be a target for resourceful criminals.
Protecting your identity, however, doesn’t have to be difficult. Follow these simple steps to help safeguard your personal information from hackers and identity thieves during tax season.

1. Be vigilant with your information online. According to the IRS, impersonation schemes thrive during tax season. This is when thieves claiming to represent the IRS send emails, make phone calls or send traditional mail in an attempt to steal people’s Social Security numbers or other sensitive personal information. However, it’s important to remember that the IRS says it does not contact people by email or social media, so, if you’re the recipient of any electronic messages, you should know that they are fraudulent. If you suspect that a piece of mail you’ve received is part of a scam, you can visit IRS.gov for information on how to determine whether it is authentic.
2. Keep an eye on your mailbox. While cyber-crime has become many thieves’ preferred method of obtaining personal information, it’s still important to closely monitor your mailbox. All official tax forms are delivered by mail, and some thieves find it easier to simply open someone’s mailbox and steal their forms than figure out Internet passwords in order to reap personal information.
3. Leave your Social Security card at home. According to the IRS, you should not, at any time, carry your Social Security card in your wallet or purse. The card should be kept in a safe place, preferably in a safe-deposit box or another secure location. If your Social Security card is in your wallet and your wallet is stolen, then it’s possible your personal information can fall into the hands of identity thieves. With your Social Security number, a thief can compromise your bank account and open new lines of credit.
4. Be crafty with your password. Refunds from electronically filed tax returns are typically direct-deposited into financial accounts, which can help protect a refund check from being stolen from your mailbox. However, if you e-file, you need to know how to do so safely. One way to protect yourself is by creating a strong user password on the website through which you file your tax return. To ensure Internet security, incorporate a series of numbers, letters and punctuation marks into your password.
5. Know your tax preparer. Fraud rings have been known to front as tax preparation centers. Scam artists prey on the unsuspecting customers of these centers, stealing personal information and sometimes redirecting their tax refunds. According to Forbes, there have also been instances when a corrupt tax preparer has sold a client’s information to a criminal, who then used the information to file for a fraudulent tax return. The bottom line? It’s a good idea to research your tax preparer or accountant and make sure he or she is legitimate and ethical.
In addition to taking steps to thwart tax-time identity thieves, you may also want to consider purchasing identity theft restoration coverage, which can alert you to potential fraud and help you repair any damage to your identity in case you do become a victim.

SMI Insurance Agency

Monday, April 15, 2013

Stump the Identity Thief: 7 Tips to Create a Strong Password

Monday, April 8, 2013

Not All Smoke Alarms are Equal: Knowing the Difference Could Save Your Life