One year after Target, how to protect yourself from massive data breaches
Another data breach was discovered Tuesday, this time at Sony. Unreleased movies were leaked on the Internet.
It comes almost a year after a massive data breach at Target.
One expert said the main reason for these breaches: Hackers are getting even better.
“If stores ever find a surefire way to stay protected, hackers will find a better way to get into them,” said Craig Smith, chief investigator at Bright Star Investigations.
He said it’s not a question of business filing practices.
The blame goes to the hackers.
“They thrive on new ways to exploit technology,” he said. “There’s hackers that do it for fun, want to make a political point, steal money and they want to create havoc, chaos and mayhem.”
His best advice to stay safe – prepaid cards offered by companies like Visa and American Express.
Instead of carrying cash, load the amount onto that card and spend just like you would your debit card.
“You’re gonna get the same benefit, same protections. If the store gets hacked, the only thing they’ll get is your prepaid card information,” Smith said.
As to avoiding hackers, Smith said it’s just not possible because technology gives them even greater access.
Other ways to avoid hackers, or at least protect yourself if you’ve been hit:
Constantly monitor bank and credit card accounts
Pay in cash Use ATMs at bank locations you trust
Sign up for text alerts so you end up getting alerts when massive purchases have been charged to your account.
