.Smartphone Unlock Pattern vs 6 Digit PIN Security
Smartphone Unlock Pattern vs 6 Digit PIN Security
Security: Don't Rely On An Unlock Pattern To Secure Your Android Phone
By Andy Greenberg
SMARTPHONES TODAY COMPETE over which can best secure your secrets. They encrypt your data, store the digital keys to unlock themselves on specialized hardware, and even offer fancy biometrics from fingerprints to faceprints.
But many millions of smartphones remain open to an absurdly low-tech attack: a sly glance at someone's phone while they unlock it. One new study has quantified just how easy an Android-style unlock pattern—as opposed to a six-digit PIN or biometric unlock—makes the job of any over-the-shoulder snoop.
Security researchers at the US Naval Academy and the University of Maryland Baltimore County this week published a study that shows that a casual observer can visually pick up and then reproduce an Android unlock pattern with relative ease.
In their tests, they found that six-point Android unlock patterns can be recreated by about two out of three observers who see it performed from five or six feet away after a single viewing.
Spotting a six-digit PIN of the kind used in most iPhones, on the other hand, proved surprisingly difficult: Only about one in ten observers in the study could reproduce it after one look.
That disparity is in part due to how memorable an Android unlock pattern is for human brains, says Naval Academy professor Adam Aviv.
"Patterns are really nice in memorability, but it’s the same as asking people to recall a glyph," says Aviv, who along with his fellow researchers will present the paper at the Annual Computer Security Applications Conference in Puerto Rico in December. "Patterns are definitely less secure than PINs."
In their tests, the researchers recruited 1,173 subjects from Amazon's Mechanical Turk crowdsourcing platform to watch carefully controlled videos of the unlocking online, and had subjects try guessing PINs and unlock patterns after watching the phone's owner unlock it with commonly used PINs, or patterns from five different angles and distances, averaging out those variables.
They also repeated the video test with 91 people in person, just to check their online results.
They found that around 64 percent of the online test subjects could reproduce a six-point pattern after one viewing, and 80 percent after two. Only 11 percent could identify a six-digit PIN after one viewing, and 27 percent after two.
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6 Smart Hiding Spots for Your Emergency Cash
Life savings ready to to be buried in the back yard.
Those who keep extra money, like an emergency fund, in their homes may be curious about some of the best spaces to store it. Since traditional savings vehicles like high-yield savings accounts are not applicable in this situation, those in possession of excess funds need to get creative with where they keep this money.
Consider stashing your emergency cash into some of these clever spots.
Fake Personal Items
This is a helpful tip for those traveling overseas as well as those seeking hacks for keeping their money safe at home. Consider fake personal items, like the following, to discreetly store any emergency funds:
A hairbrush. Use a round hairbrush with a hollowed-out middle and store cash inside the brush.
The Day I Put $50,000 in a Shoe Box and Handed It to a Stranger
I never thought I was the kind of person to fall for a scam.
By Charlotte Cowles
On a Tuesday evening this past October, I put $50,000 in cash in a shoe box, taped it shut as instructed, and carried it to the sidewalk in front of my apartment, my phone clasped to my ear. “Don’t let anyone hurt me,” I told the man on the line, feeling pathetic.
“You won’t be hurt,” he answered. “Just keep doing exactly as I say.”
Three minutes later, a white Mercedes SUV pulled up to the curb. “The back window will open,” said the man on the phone. “Do not look at the driver or talk to him. Put the box through the window, say ‘thank you,’ and go back inside.”
The man on the phone knew my home address, my Social Security number, the names of my family members, and that my 2-year-old son was playing in our living room. He told me my home was being watched, my laptop had been hacked, and we were in imminent danger. “I can help you, but only if you cooperate,” he said. His first orders: I could not tell anyone about our conversation, not even my spouse, or talk to the police or a lawyer.
Now I know this was all a scam — a cruel and violating one but painfully obvious in retrospect. Here’s what I can’t figure out: Why didn’t I just hang up and call 911? Why didn’t I text my husband, or my brother (a lawyer), or my best friend (also a lawyer), or my parents, or one of the many other people who would have helped me? Why did I hand over all that money — the contents of my savings account, strictly for emergencies — without a bigger fight?
I lost $11,300 to identity fraud
What I learned: Usual safeguards don’t work.
Janna Herron·Senior Columnist Sat, Mar 2, 2024,
"Looks like someone is trying to take more than $10,000 from us."
That's the message my husband typed to me on a Monday morning in October. By the time I wrote back, he was on the phone with our bank. The weekend before, someone walked into a bank branch, pretended to be one of us, and took thousands of dollars from our checking account.
We joined the tens of millions of Americans who each year are victims of identity fraud, where criminals steal a bank or credit card number and use the personal information to achieve illegal financial gain.
We were lucky in so many ways, most notably that our bank reimbursed our losses within 36 hours.
What we learned is this: The many steps we take to safeguard our personal data don’t always work.
Experts suggest creating strong passwords with extra layers of authentication, changing them often, and not using the same one on multiple accounts.
Having text alerts on your credit and debit cards for all transactions can also thwart illegal activity in real time, as can email alerts when someone tries to change an email or address associated with your account.
Outsmarting Pickpockets and Thieves
By Rick Steves
A money belt tucked underneath your clothes keeps your essentials on you as securely and thoughtlessly as your underweaCrowded transit lines that cover tourist sights are happy hunting grounds for pickpockets — stay in physical contact with your bags.
While Europe has little violent crime, it does have its share of petty purse snatching, pickpocketing, phone grabbing, and general ripping off of tourists — especially in places where tourists gather. Thieves target vacationers — not because they're mean, but because they're smart. Travelers have all the good stuff in their bags and wallets. Loaded down with valuables, jetlagged, and bumbling around in a strange new environment, we stick out like jeweled thumbs. If I were a European street thief, I'd specialize in Americans — my card would say "Yanks R Us."
If you're not constantly on guard, you'll have something stolen. One summer, four out of five of my traveling companions lost cameras in one way or another. (Don't look at me.) But in more than 4,800 days of travel, I've been pickpocketed only once (on the Paris Métro, on a rare day I didn't wear my money belt) and mugged a single time (in a part of London where only fools and thieves tread).
Gen Zers Report Having Fallen For Scams More Than Any Other Generation
Americans think their older loved ones are more vulnerable to scammers–but Gen Zers report having fallen for scams more than any other generation
Michael Steinbach Fri, February 9, 2024
While fraudsters’ tactics have evolved throughout my career as head of financial crimes and fraud prevention at Citi and during the more than two decades I spent at the FBI, one thing has stayed the same: No one thinks they’re going to be scammed.
Most Americans overrate their abilities to avoid scams, according to a recent Citi survey. Some 90% of U.S. adults believe they’re able to spot financial scams–but more than a quarter (27%) report having fallen victim.
Today's scammers are nimble and aided by sophisticated tools. They often deal in volume, and it only takes one successful attempt to profit. Ultimately, all ages and demographics are at risk.
No One Is Immune
While Citi’s survey revealed that three in four Americans are concerned about an older loved one falling victim to a scam, the survey suggests digitally native generations are at risk, too. A third of Gen Z respondents report having been a victim of a financial scam–more than any other generation.
"Strategy to Retain Wealth" by Quantum Warrior
Emailed to Recaps 11/19/2013 From Archives
(Dinar Recaps Note: This post is for informational purposes only. It is not legal, tax or investment advice. Dinar Recaps advises that everyone do their own due diligence and seek local Professional tax, legal and/or investment advisers.)
Strategy to Retain Wealth by Quantum Warrior
The "recipe" below is my personal one- if it does not suit you, don't do it. If you don't like the ideas, fair enough, we all have that right, but please don't complain to Recaps or me, just read something else. The usual disclaimers apply- do your own due diligence, every situation is different.
Like all of you, I am not wealthy now (except possibly spguru :-) ). However, I have spent considerable time working on my strategy to retain the wealth, there are lots of comments in many posts (including my earlier one) about not behaving like a lottery winner. What does that mean? Simply spending like the money will never run out. It will.
Leaving These 13 Things by the Front Door Could Keep You Safe
Glenda Taylor Tue, January 16, 2024 Bob Vila
The front door area of your home should be welcoming, but only to welcomed visitors. As the most visible entry to a home, this zone can be vulnerable to break-ins. Doing all you can to deter criminals and secure the front door can keep loved ones and property safer. In addition to stopping unwanted visitors, a front entry can help first responders find you if an emergency arises. Learning how to protect yourself and your property doesn’t have to be difficult (or cost-prohibitive), so the following items range from simple DIY steps to long-term solutions.
1. Privacy Film
Entry doors with clear glass inserts or sidelights are beautiful when the sun sparkles through, but they also give unwanted visitors a clear view inside. Obscuring a would-be burglar’s view doesn’t have to involve heavy drapery, though. Installing frosted privacy film, like this privacy window film from Gila, on the inside of the glass can add a decorative element to a window while allowing light to penetrate into the entryway and protecting the contents of your home from curious eyes.
Bravo’s Andy Cohen Reveals Red Flags He Missed As Scammers Duped Him, Stole His Money
Susan Tompor, Detroit Free Press Tue, January 16, 2024
One can hear about a long list of too-trusting Grandmas, job-hunters hit by scams, widows hurt when looking for love, and so many others who sadly lost big money to crafty cyber predators. But then, maybe, it really resonates when a pop culture celebrity who rang in the New Year with millions watching CNN talks about seeing money vanish from his own bank account.
Lots. Of. Money.
Andy Cohen, the high-energy, buzz-generating executive producer of the "Real Housewives" franchise and co-host with Anderson Cooper of CNN's New Year's Eve live coverage from Time's Square, has gone public with how he lost his debit card one day, received what claimed to be email from his bank's fraud department another day and then shockingly discovered shortly afterward that cyber crooks made off with his money using three wire transfers out two of his bank accounts.
"When money is wired, it's out the door and gone," Cohen told me via email.
"Typically," he told me, "banks will not return money if you've given someone access to your account and then the transfers have been completed."
Experts: Here’s Why Nearly Every Purchase Should Be On a Credit Card
October 4, 2023 By Heather Taylor
How do you know which purchases, whether they’re big or small, should be put on a credit card? This decision often depends on the type of purchase and how responsible the cardholder is with their credit card use. GOBankingRates asked experts to list the purchases you should put on a credit card versus those where you may need to exercise caution.
Put These Purchases on a Credit Card
Experts agreed that when used responsibly, credit cards should be the go-to form of payment for most everyday purchases as well as some larger ones.
New Grocery Store Scams: Watch Out for These Money Traps at the Checkout Line
Andrew Lisa Fri, October 27, 2023
Between shoplifting, return scams and even acts of violence, crime is on the rise at grocery stores. But now, criminals are targeting not just supermarkets, but unsuspecting shoppers who are simply there to buy food.
The next time you’re in the grocery store, stay alert, be aware of your surroundings and watch out for these scams — which often take place at or near the checkout line.
Beware of These Supermarket Scams
19 Dangerous Scam Phone Numbers and Area Codes To Avoid
By Joshua Rodriguez
Area Codes To Avoid About Scam Numbers Common Phone Scams
Scams are becoming more and more prevalent. They’re so common that experts have coined the term “scam economy.” Unfortunately, it’s easy to change a phone number, and scammers often do so to avoid getting caught. The good news is that scams operate in many known area codes, so you can avoid being the next victim simply by watching for known scam phone numbers.
Wouldn’t it be great to have a list of scam phone numbers handy to avoid them altogether? Keep reading to learn more.
5 Best Ways To Stay Safer From Identity Theft When You’re Online
August 22, 2023 By Greg Garrison
Unfortunately, scammers trying to steal your information and identity online aren’t going away. The Federal Trade Commission received more than 1.1 million reports of identity theft from consumers in 2022, and that number has steadily increased as scammers get more advanced.
Having your identity stolen can have serious financial consequences and sometimes takes hours of work over months to sort out and repair. So while scammers get more advanced, you need to as well.
Here are our five best ways to keep your identity safer when you’re online:
3 Simple Steps You Must Take to Shield Yourself from Identity Theft
How to fortify your identity against the growing threat of fraud.
by Abigael Good August 16, 2023
Identity thieves can cause a lot of stress — not to mention damage — if they get access to your personal information. In fact, in a recent GBR survey, 58% of Americans said having their identity stolen would be catastrophic.
Even if you don’t have that same level of concern about identity theft, there are still three key steps you should take to protect yourself. “Rather safe than sorry” is the name of the game.
8 Ways to Prepare and Protect Your Money
Experts Explain Hyperinflation and 8 Ways to Prepare and Protect Your Money
September 27, 2022 Financial Pilgrimage
Imagine a world where money is worth practically nothing, and the costs of goods increase rapidly, doubling and tripling day after day. This situation might sound like a fictitious movie plot, but it has happened many times before in our world. It’s called hyperinflation, and it can wreak economic devastation on people.
Right now, the increasing prices of goods and services across the board have already stretched people’s budgets. That’s just called inflation. But during hyperinflation, things would get dramatically worse. While the odds of this happening in the U.S. are small, there is no better time to get your financial house in order.
Security Tips From Security Pro Part 2 of 2
Think Security - Serious Info on ALL Safety Measures Good Read
Think Security
What is the first thought when I say bodyguard? I'll bet you thought of a 250 lbs weightlifter, ex-football player, all star wrestler or the like. A big muscle bound man standing around your front door with folded arms and an Uzi under his suite coat. Right?
Well maybe in the movies, but certainly not real life. Take me for example: I am 5'9" I can't lift my own body weight above my head more than a few times, I might be able to do ten pushups without collapsing and chin ups - forget it!! I am a normal guy.
Security Tips From Security Pro Part 1 of 2
A Post From Dinar Recaps Archives
Think Security - Serious Info on ALL Safety Measures Good Read
I just wanted to pass on a bit of caution. As a former professional Executive Protection Specialist (Bodyguard to the Super Rich) Many of you will walk out of the bank as millionaires, multi-millionaires and some of you Billionaires. You have been given great advise when it comes to Identity and computer security and some things to do to protect your identity. (All Computers should have VPN protection and encrypted emails -)
All great information and thought. But, please think about this! Please don't let the most blessed day of your life be the beginnings of some of the most frightening and horrific experiences of your life!
Protecting Yourself Against Fraud
Russ Wiles, Arizona Republic Sun, June 11, 2023
Protecting Yourself Against Fraud, scams and identity theft is hard. These tips can help
Criminals aren't taking time off for the summer, and neither should you when it comes to protecting financial accounts. Keeping your guard up against fraud, scams and identity theft is a full-time pursuit.
The threats extend from divulging too much personal information to having your tax refund stolen. Here are some of the problems and some tips that can help:
5 Financial Scams That Target Your Cell Phone
Jake Arky Tue, May 16, 2023
Scams are everywhere these days, from the email phishing to fake websites trying to steal your money, information or both. As scams are increasing and becoming more prevalent, it’s important to be aware of all the ways to stay safe when using your personal technology. The latest target for financial scams is right in your pocket: your cell phone. “The phone has become the center of targets for scammers now as a scammer can send not only an email, but also a text message where people are much more trusting for some reason which really should not be,” comments Sandy Fliderman, CTO at Industry FinTech.
America Once Again Turns the Other Cheek
February 6, 2023 Simoon Black Sovereign Research & Advisory
When the infamous British smuggler Robert Jenkins sailed past Jamaica in April of 1731, he probably thought he was home free. Jenkins had a ship full of contraband which he had picked up in the West Indies, and he was heading back to England to sell his goods in London’s premium markets. But Jenkins wasn’t transporting drugs or alcohol, or even anything especially exotic. His ‘contraband’ was sugar. Big deal. The West Indies at the time, though, were mainly under Spanish control. And Spain insisted that no one could export sugar from their territory without their express approval, along with paying heavy taxes and fees.
The Quiet Disappearance Of The Safe Deposit Box
Michael Waters December 2, 2022 — Very Informative & Interesting
Once revered as the safest way to store physical valuables, safe deposit boxes are now being phased out by major banks. The move is already starting to backfire.
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In the opening sequence of The Bourne Identity, a young Matt Damon wakes up with no idea who he is. All he has is a code — the account number for a safe deposit box in Switzerland.
At the bank, an attendant leads him into an elaborate steel vault, where he’s presented with a safe deposit box. Inside are the first clues to his identity: a gun, a watch, stacks of cash, and a series of passports under different nationalities, including one bearing the name “Jason Bourne.”
.Protecting Your Home Against Burglary
Burglary and home invasions are some of the most prevalent crimes in the US. With a break-in happening every 26 seconds, you can see why home security is an important area to consider. The difference between a home invasion and burglary is if there are homeowners inside the residence during the break-in. A burglary occurs when no one is home and becomes a home invasion if someone is present during the crime.
You’ll be happy to know that burglary rates in the US have been steadily falling over the past decade, but that still resulted in 314 burglaries per 100,000 people in 2020.
.13 Top Tips To Prevent Identity Theft
Protecting your sensitive personal information from thieves is getting harder than ever, thanks to a combination of the growth and sophistication of organized crime, and the lack of initiative on the part of banks and legislators to do anything meaningful to combat it.
Ways To Beat Identity Theft
What follows is a list of the most basic things you can do to prevent your identity from being stolen. While some of them are pretty obvious, its best to take nothing for granted:
.24 Home Security Tips
With perhaps the exception of fire, home burglary is the biggest threat to our safety at home. Depending on where you live, government statistics show that a home burglary occurs every few seconds. While the exact number obviously varies, best estimates in the USA have burglaries occurring every 8 seconds.
Unlike the stereotypical burglar we see in the media and movies, most home burglaries actually occur weekdays during work hours. This is for the simple and obvious reason that the burglar chooses the path of least possible resistance, and this includes picking a time when they are least likely to run into the homeowner.
The 1 Big Mistake You Should Never, Ever Make With Your Passport
BuzzFeed Sun, May 5, 2024
A couple of years ago, I was invited to attend a friend’s July wedding in his wife’s hometown in northern Italy. As the date approached, I remarked to another friend who was also planning to travel from the U.S. for the celebration that I was glad I had just renewed my passport since it was due to expire in May. She responded cheerfully that she was all set because her passport wouldn’t expire until September.
She was mistaken. My friend was not all set because Italy, as part of the Schengen Area of European countries, requires visitors to have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the date they intend to depart.
Fortunately, she was able to expedite her passport renewal and make it to the wedding, but her situation highlighted a fairly common misconception about international travel.
Having A Current Passport Isn’t Always Enough
“A lot of us just think we need a valid passport to travel the world beyond our borders, but what many people don’t realize [is] that a current passport alone might not be enough,” said Katy Nastro, a spokesperson for the flight alert service Going.