A Word of Caution...

DenaP · Post by **DenaP** » Fri Jul 24, 2009 8:23 am

I love this forum, and have learned so much that I wanted to share an experience in hopes of preventing others from "sharing" it.

I recently discovered that some of my on-line accounts had been hacked, and those that had credit cards on file were used to purchase merchandise that was then billed to me. Fortunately, my credit card company was great about the whole situation, so I have no out of pocket expenses. I do have the enormous hassle of getting a new credit card issued, changing all of my user names on any on-line account, and on and on.

When my cyber security team at work heard about it, they warned me about posting personal information, albeit innocent and vague, on forums where the public can view the discussions. Apparently, it is a favorite place for scammers to find information.

Keep this in mind; I don't want anyone's "sailing fund" to end up in the wrong hand.

Cheers,
Dena

CaptainScott · Post by **CaptainScott** » Fri Jul 24, 2009 10:16 am

Dang, Sorry to hear that but it sounds like you got off easy.

Glad the damage was minimal and not financial.

Scott

DenaP · Post by **DenaP** » Fri Jul 24, 2009 10:46 am

I did get off easy. I would really have gotten mad if my "new sails" fund had taken a hit! The sails that came with the boat when I boat her in January are the originals and I swear I can read a newspaper through them. They definitely have to be replaced before I can put her in the water.

Gus · Post by **Gus** » Fri Jul 24, 2009 11:06 am

I had that problem last year, someone got ahold of my debit card number and bought tickets to Romania and phone cards in Italy. I got the money back, but I had to change my bank account number, new debit cards, and after that I quit paying stuff online.

Leeway · Post by **Leeway** » Fri Jul 24, 2009 12:26 pm

Sorry to here you got phished. Glad it came out OK.

Here are some tips for the future.

1) Never give out personal information on forums or blogs such as your full name, phone number, etc...
2) If you prefer or have to make your purchases online only use one designated credit card for this purpose.
3) NEVER, and I mean NEVER, use a debit card to make online purchases. Those funds come directly out of your checking account if used as Debit. You may be able to get it back, but unlike credit it's your money that is not available any longer.