That moment when you realize you have been defrauded can be soul-destroying. At first, you may be shocked and not know what to do. You cannot believe you have fallen for it. But once you get your head around what has happened, you can start working toward recovery. Here are the things you can do to recover after being defrauded.
Stop Any More Money
First of all, when you have identified a scam, ensure that you stop any funding. Make sure that no further payments are going to be made out to encourage them to defraud you anymore. It is easy to be shocked about what is happening and lose even more money. So, try to stop the scam at the source. For instance, if you have used a credit card, make sure that it is canceled and that you inform the card issuers of the fraud.
Do Not Blame Yourself
After you have discovered the scam and process what has happened, you will be angry and blame yourself. However, you have got to avoid doing this. This is not going to be productive and help you move on. Know that millions of people fall for fraudulent scams every year. You are not the first or the last person to do this. All you should think about is what you are going to do next and how you can prevent this from happening again.
Try to Get Your Money Back
A lot of people assume that once they have been defrauded they will never get this money back. However, this is not always true. Unfortunately, stock market fraud happens a lot and this means many people have looked for help over the years. Now, there are companies out there that can help you recover the money you have lost.
Avoid Unsolicited Emails
When you have been the victim of fraud, you need to learn your lesson. Avoid all unsolicited contact that you receive about another investment opportunity. For instance, if you receive any emails or telephone calls with so-called ‘great opportunities’ make sure that you ignore them. This could be another fraudulent scam that you do not want to get involved with. Delete all emails and messages you receive and ensure that you do not send any personal details. You also want to avoid opening any attachments or links they send to you.
Follow Your Gut
Unfortunately, there are thousands of scams happening every day to innocent people. If you have been one of these victims, you will know the worry and stress it can cause you. Indeed, you may have also lost a lot of money. In the future, in order to stop this from happening again, follow your gut. If something seems too good to be true or you have a bad feeling, ignore the opportunity. If you really want to make investments, do your own research and know that other opportunities are going to come along. Do not rush into any decisions without thinking them through.
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Should you Replace or Rekey Locks?
Each home or business owner has different requirements for this question.
Have you moved? What types of locks are installed? How old are the locks? Have they meet the security level you want to be installed in your home or office. These are all questions you should ask yourself before making a decision about making a new key or change your locking account completely.
You usually want to rekey locks for your house or car because of burglary, theft or vandalism. You can also rekey your locks if you lose your keys if you feel that too many others have copies. Before you decide if you should re-key or replace your home or business locks, it's important to know what the lock-re-key is doing once. This is one of the most basic locksmith tasks, but it can be complicated by higher security locks.
Lock the key again to lock the glasses so that each waffle takes place in a different order than before. This is done to keep the same lock and effectively change the keys. The cursor can use the new code lock on the glasses so that the old set of keys does not work with new glasses.
If your door locks are a security class (ANSI) Grade 1 or higher, you should be able to re-enter these unlocked locks.
If you can turn on the lock again, then you do not have to buy any additional hardware that makes it much costlier. Here are some other benefits.
Preserves the look of the door (no color lines)
Locks can be tensed with the same locks (convenience)
Cheaper!
If your locks are old and weak but fashionable, it can take a lot of time to completely replace the entire locking system. There are a couple of times that it is necessary to go over like:
1. If your lock is broken or other malicious haps:
If some locks' assembly has spent so much that some locks or keys no longer catch, to ensure the safety it is time to take new locks.
2. Your locks are too old to find parts:
If you have an antique locker and the parts are no longer able to be replaced or re-keyed in the glasses, it is the time to upgrade your existing locks to the new ones. The new locks at this age have a much better level of security as the safety procedures have been upgraded over the years. It's very difficult to find a locksmith that works with antique locks, and if you encode or repair a premium for a fee.
3. You require a higher level of security for your home or business:
If you have locks installed so that a low-security rating should be in your to-do list, add them at least ANSI 1 level. These locks are harder to choose, drill, or otherwise manipulate. We recommend good lock known companies like Schlage and Kwikset, but there are many good locks on the market. Compare the performance charts of Consumer Reports when you are on the market. You can also ask your local locksmith, as which they install is never a bad choice.
Now you know the benefit of rekeying vs. changing your locks and you made the decision to rekey them, then there are three options.
Hire a local locksmith Richmond (if you are in Richmond) to come to your home again for rekeying to your locks.
Remove the locks from the door frame by calling the local locksmith shop or local locksmith and reset them for you.
DIY - There are many re-key kits, that can be purchased, provide basic guidelines to rekey the locks.
If your locks fall into the category of lock change, there are about the same options, but then you have to first choose then opt new types of locks that you want to install.
You can hire a handyman or a local locksmith to complete a professional lock change. It is often suggested to hire a professional that you will find from Vancouver, BC locksmith or other trusted source with a review like a swear to have hassle-free lock changing procedure.
You can buy a lock-set online and make out the lock nodes yourself.
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Top 10 Effective Tips To Keep Your Home Safe
We often talk about workplace safety and even use scaffolding planks and other such tools to make jobs easier and safer. However, we hardly talk about workplace security, which is as important as safety, if no more.
In fact, the two concepts are interlinked. You can’ feel safe if you’re not secure. It’s important to keep the place safe from intruders and protect employees from injuries.
Read on to find out how you can significantly improve the security of a workplace.
Make Sure to Lock All Doors and Windows :
Having a secure system for locking your place after leaving is one way you can ensure workplace safety. Make sure you have windows and doors that lock securely.
The best option is to use a complete security system that’s computerized and can control all entrances without any trouble. This helps ensure the job is done properly.
Restrict Access to Important Zones :
You will have confidential information that you’d like to keep secure. The best option is to keep such information in a password-protected zone so that only people who have an access to it can enter or exit the room.
You may also use other tricks, such as biometric verification, to control entry and exit.
Install a Security System :
Have a security system installed in your workplace to ensure more security. Burglars are less likely to break into a property that’s secured. You can install CCTV cameras and motion detectors to ensure security.
These devices can help you keep an eye on what’s happening at work and also record video that can serve as a proof in case of a theft or other such accidents.
Just invest in a high-quality CCTV system that can record videos at night and also allow you to enjoy live feeds on your mobile devices.
Protect Against Fire :
A fire alarm is a great way to keep your workplace safe. If there was even a threat of a fire being started the alarm would go off to alert everyone to quickly evacuate the place.
They can also instruct sprinklers to go off so that the damage is reduced. Moreover, the latest smoke detectors can also send you a notification on your email or phone in case there’s a fire so that you can take an action quickly.
Draw an Emergy Plan :
Have an effective emergency plan so that people can escape in case of an emergency. Also, prepare a list of procedures to follow in case of an emergency so that the extent of damage can be reduced.
A list of emergency contacts should be kept with all the workers for their safety. drill for evacuating the place in case of any emergencies is also necessary. Having this drill every now and then will help the workers be quick and organized with the evacuation process.
Have Security :
Believe it or not, this trick is still quite effective in keeping burglars away. Hire security staff to safeguard the entrance.
Also, create security checks at all entrance points to ensure nobody enters the property without being inspected.
Train Your Employees
This is a great way to improve the safety of your workplace. Training your employees to take all security measures properly will help make the place more secure.
They should know how to lock or unlock doors and keep information safe and secure.
Reduce Visitor Interaction :
Visitors should be limited to only a few specific areas of the workplace. They should not be allowed on places like storerooms, utility closets, or boiler rooms.
Also, make sure to keep a record of all visitors and to have guest passes so that you’re well aware of guests in the workplace.
Protect Your Data
Data security is very important. Since most of our data is stored on computers, criminals can access it without having to physically break into the premises.
Make sure to strengthen your IT department and to use fool proof methods to safeguard your computers. Password protect all your files and use passwords that are hard to guess. Also, make use of an antivirus to ensure no malware or spyware can cause your system to get infected.
Also, train your employees on how to safeguard data. It’s also common for employees to get involved in theft for different reasons. This can be prevented by making sure they can’t download or take data back home.
Get in Touch with Professionals
This is the best way to ensure safety and security. A professional security firm will ensure you’re well protected against all kinds of dangers. Speak to different organizations and pick one that appears the most reliable to you.
Follow these simple tips to ensure workplace security. It’s important because nobody wants to work at a place that’s unsecure.
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Relocating Your Business To Downtown Toronto? Read This First
With the rise of digitization, there has been a rise in cybercrime.
In fact, when a cyberattack happens, it harms a company directly and indirectly. Also, it affects its reputation in its potential customers’ eyes. In fact, you cannot count but estimate the loss that happens. Hence, it is important to ensure e-commerce website security.
In this article, you will learn about the top fourteen ways to ensure e-commerce website security. However, before that, it is also important to understand the importance of ensuring security in e-commerce websites. Hence, to learn more, read on to the end of the article.
Importance Of E-Commerce Website Security
In 2024, most businesses are working in the online framework. Their revenues heavily depend on their websites.
If they do not emphasize their website’s security, their customer base and reputation will become vulnerable.
As an eCommerce website owner, you need to comply with certain payment guidelines. These include PCI/DSS (Payment Card Industry – Data Security Standard) to ensure smooth payment transactions.
Moreover, you need to install security protocols to secure your data integrity. They will not only protect your customer data from hackers but also keep the search engines satisfied.
Thus, security is essential for your eCommerce website.
Top 14 Ways To Ensure E-Commerce Website Security
The following are some of the major cybersecurity features you must ensure on your website:
1. Implement 2-factor Authentication
Does not matter how frustrating it may sound. As long as you are keeping your customer’s data secure, every security method is fine.
Employing 2-factor authentication may make your customers a bit agitated. They first enter the login credentials and then enter the OTP received on their number to decrease security breaches and hacks drastically.
So, employ the process and safeguard your customer accounts.
2. Get HTTPs And SSL Certification
To obtain HTTPS authentication businesses need an SSL certificate to be installed on a website. Before installation, you need to buy an SSL certificate. This is because it encrypts the data communication between the server and the client.
Then, it passes the data over a secure network through cryptographic functions (symmetric & asymmetric). This keeps cybercriminals from intercepting the communication.
Out of all the SSL certificates, the EV SSL certificates require a user to undergo a unique validation process to verify his credibility through his name, ID, address, and more.
Thus, get an EV SSL to secure your Ecommerce website and obtain the highest validation level.
3. Comply With PCI-DSS Guidelines For A Secure Payment Gateway System
PCI-DSS or Payment Card Industry – Data Security Standard is a body that governs a website’s right to maintain an online payment transaction system.
If you are a website that sees over six million transactions every year, you must be level 1 compliant. However, if your transactions range from 20,000 per year, you are safe as a level 4 client of PCI-DSS.
The compliance helps you to secure your payment gateway system. Also, it allows you to use a third-party app to accept payments and make refunds on your behalf.
4. Use A VPN As A Night Watchman
When you use public networks such as Wi-Fis to access the site, it is better to use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to watch your back and restrict other connections to manipulate the ongoing connection between the server and the client.
Without a VPN, hackers can easily manipulate the payment transaction and hack credit and debit card details.
VPN will secure your customers’ payment transactions even on Wi-Fi and keep their sensitive data as safe as houses.
5. Restrict Malicious Bots Using reCAPTCHA
The reCAPTCHA method is extremely effective in keeping hackers at bay. Basically, ReCAPTCHA generates random questions that a bot cannot answer.
There are plenty of malicious bots lurking around the internet in hopes of finding an ideal prey for cybercriminals.
When they get access to your account, malicious bots can steal information, leak it, or even bring your site down.
ReCAPTCHA adds an extensive layer of security that is impenetrable for a code or a bot.
It restricts bad guys’ entrance by protecting login pages, signup pages, contact form pages, form submission pages, payment gateway pages, etc.
6. Start Using A Reliable Content Management System (CMS)
Choosing the right CMS is important for businesses to determine whether an eCommerce website will stay safe.
Mediocre CMSs are a big risk to have. They might help you save a few bucks, but you will always be vulnerable to theft.
But, CMSs like WordPress and Joomla have renounced entities having customer bases in millions.
Moreover, they are regular in updating security patches and always stay a step ahead of the bad guys.
The only thing you need to do is keep them updated.
7. Do Not Use Unsolicited Extensions And Plugins
Plugins and extensions are necessary to enhance your website’s reach. They allow you access to multiple tools and features on the internet.
However, not all plugins are safe to install. These days, due to rising cybercrimes, you must be aware of what you’re installing or adding.
Cybercriminals can engrave malicious codes in the plugins, and when a user installs it, they get access to his site.
Before installing any plugin, make sure that its source is known. Check for its reviews and ratings across the internet.
Also, check its performance reports and badges for further inquiry and self-satisfaction.
8. Perform Audits For Site Security
Site security auditing does not interest a lot of merchants, but it is essential for their survival.
Site security auditing includes checking whether the anti-virus is working appropriately and whether security protocols are repelling attacks or not.
As a merchant, you must initiate site auditing from time to time. It will help you prevent attacks and fix bugs and technical glitches.
If detected early, some security issues can be repelled; otherwise, they may harm the website if they stay for longer periods.
So, keep auditing your website at regular intervals of time.
9. Install A Firewall In Your Web Application
If you own a web application, the firewall can benefit you immensely.
Web Application Firewall or WAF protects the website or web app by analyzing the traffic between the application and the internet.
A firewall protects the user data of the application from XSS (cross-site scripting), SQL injection, cross-site request forgery, etc.
A firewall is the need of the hour to suffice the mounting cyberattacks and help sustain the business.
10. Perform Data-Backup Regularly
In today’s tech world, data is more important than cash in your wallet. Here, you can earn cash again. However, once you lose data, you cannot retrieve them in the same proportion.
For businesses, data is their lifeline. They thrive on data and channel their operations accordingly.
Since it is immensely important, protecting it is quite a task for businesses as cybercriminals are always on the lookout for data.
The best way to protect your data is by creating a copy of it and saving it on the cloud.
Cloud allows you to access your data anywhere at any time, making it extremely reliable.
11. Regular Software Updates
Regular software updates are crucial for e-commerce website security since they come with patches that deal with vulnerabilities. Additionally, since developers always research and improve cybersecurity, new updates let you access the latest features.
In fact, they protect your website from new threats like ransomware. Also, it offers protection against data breach attempts. Moreover, software updates also let your website meet the compliance requirements of the e-commerce industry.
Furthermore, it also helps in improving the overall performance of your e-commerce website.
12. Strong Password Policies
Firstly, if there is a strong password policy, cyber criminals will not gain unauthorized access to the website.
As a result, you can also prevent financial losses that may happen to your business. Moreover, you can also save your business from reputational damage.
Generally, cybercriminals and hackers use weak passwords to penetrate networks. Thereby, they stop your business’s critical processes. Hence, with a strong password policy, you can ensure e-commerce website security.
13. Use A Secure Hosting Environment
A secure hosting environment protects your e-commerce website from various security threats. These include hacking, data breaches, malware, etc.
Apart from that, it also helps to maintain your site’s integrity. Also, it helps you to protect sensitive information like passwords and credit card numbers. Additionally, it also offers protection against DDoS attacks
Moreover, site downtime negatively affects your search engine ranking. Here, a secure hosting environment can help you a lot.
14. Focus On User Education And Training
If you invest in user education and training, you can help them respond to cybersecurity threats. Basically, your users will learn to identify and respond to threats such as phishing, social engineering, and malicious attachments.
Thereby, you can reduce the likelihood of cyberattacks that can compromise your e-commerce website security. As a result, you will gain more trust from your users and customers.
Final Thoughts
eCommerce is booming every day. New ways of marketing, selling, and attracting are in place to make life convenient for customers.
On the hind side, hackers also build new ways to capture as much data as possible. Basically, they employ bots and bugs to do the dirty work. Bots can enter your website and steal customer data, whereas bugs can get attached to plugins and gain access once you install them.
Keeping track of what you are installing, where you are visiting, and who you are allowing access to is of paramount importance. However, everything can get simple if you follow these fourteen steps. This way, you can frame a robust website security system.
Do you have more recommendations on how to ensure e-commerce website security? Please share your ideas and opinions in the comments section below.
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