Let's Go Phishing Or Do You Really Want To Open That Email?

We all have probably heard the term "phishing". Simply defined it's the act of sending an e-mail to a user falsely claiming to be an established legitimate enterprise in an attempt to scam the user into surrendering private information that will be used for identity theft. The e-mail directs the user to visit a Web site where they are asked to update personal information, such as passwords and credit card, social security, and bank account numbers, that the legitimate organization already has. The Web site, however, is bogus and set up only to steal the user's information.

A recent study from Cisco suggests that there are over 360 million "phishing" emails being sent out every day around the world. How many of these are from Nigeria, we can't say for sure, but what can be stated is that a percentage of those receiving these emails will open them and give away their information. The main reason this will happen is because the user has not been trained to identify what is a "phishing" email. They may receive an email from Citicorp, or eBay, or PayPal, and maybe even the director of the FBI asking for personal information about their account. Unknowingly, they will provide this information, and within hours their identify can be stolen or information used to delete their savings accounts.

Even more diabolical is "spear phishing". This is targeted "phishing" against companies, specific individuals, and governments to gain access to specific areas requiring secure entry via password or account information. Again, the receiver of the email may assume it is from within their company or IT department and provide the information requested...compromising their firm.

Fortunately there are programs available to help train individuals to recognize these cyber theft scams. By taking a few minutes out of the day, these training programs can help you learn what is or is not a suspicious email... and perhaps save your identity or corporate data.

And should you fall into a "phishing" trap, where you suspect your identity may have been compromised, immediately contact your local authorities, bank and credit card companies, as well as the Federal Trade Commission.

Is Your Authentic Designer Handbag Really Authentic?

So, you have just bought a new designer handbag. Maybe you have had your eye on a Christian Dior Saddle Handbag, or Gucci Jackie-O that you know your friends will drool over . You got a huge discount off of the hefty retail price and you're feeling pretty good about yourself. But now you are wondering- is my designer handbag authentic.

Determining the authenticity on any product can be a little tricky, but if you know the basics, you will be able to spot a fake in just a few seconds.

One of the best ways to ensure your new handbag is authentic is to look at the bag itself. Designer handbags are popular and cost as much as they due because first and for-most they are made from quality materials. Take a good look at the stitching. There should be no loose or missing stitches, the color of the thread should match the main color of the bag and the stitches should be evenly spaced. If the handbag is leather, the logo should be engraved, not just printed on the leather.

Also take a look at the hardware. All of the hardware should match in color and sheen. The hardware should also be free of scratches. Many manufactures, including Gucci, Fendi and Prada, protect their hardware with a removable plastic cover that is to be removed only after it has been purchased. The brand name or logo should be engraved, not embossed or simply printed on the hardware. You can also find the brand name of logo engraved on the strap hardware on Gucci, Fendi, Prada, Chanel.

Inspect the material the bag; lining, hardware and accents are made of. Many handbags are made of different types of leather, from Lambskin, Calfskin, Goatskin and Patent Leather, but it is easy to distinguish if the leather is of a good quality or not. The lining is usually made of a satin material that has a nice shine to it and most designer handbags have the name brand name or logo on the lining. Designers almost always use leather accents, not plastic. Some purses have straps that are specially coated and seem to be artificial. However a quick look at the edge of the strap, usually near a stitched joint, should reveal a leather core.

Is there an authenticity card. An authenticity card is a little card that usually has the manufactures logo embossed on the front and has some information about the product you purchased and sometimes includes a magnetic strip, bar code. Many manufacturers, including Gucci, Prada, Fendi, Kate Spade and Coach, use these cards.

Check for a serial number. Not all manufacturers use serial numbers, but many do. The serial number for Fendi purses can be found on the inside pocket. Simply turn the pocket inside out and there will be a printed number on the fabric or possibly on the leather tag. Gucci includes a small leather tag on the zipper seam of the handbag which includes a serial number.

If you shop wisely, and inspect the bag carefully, you will be able to spot a fake from a mile away.