Articles: Security

Dear Consumer Ed: I heard that the magnetic strip on debit and credit cards is going to be replaced with chip-and-PIN technology. How will that affect who is liable (consumer or merchant) in the case that a fraudulent transaction occurs? 

Dear Consumer Ed: My husband keeps clicking on every pop-up ad that comes up on the Internet.  As a result, he has downloaded malware, which has slowed down the computer and created unwanted toolbars, coupon services and even an unwanted security software program.  Short of barring him from the c

Dear Consumer Ed: If I place a credit freeze on my credit report, will it prevent a credit card company from increasing the credit limit on my credit card?

Dear Consumer Ed: I really want to protect my children from identity theft.  At what age should I check to see if they have a credit report and whether it contains any suspicious information?

Dear Consumer Ed: 

Dear Consumer Ed:  When I started shopping online and banking online, I was told that if I saw a closed padlock symbol on the screen that the site was safe for me to use because it is encrypted. Is that still true with all the stories I read about online hacking?

Dear Consumer Ed: I have tried to do everything I can to protect myself from identity theft.  But what can I do about data breaches?

Dear Consumer Ed: I recently applied for a credit card for the first time. Although I entered my social security number on the application, I received a request from the credit card company for a copy of my actual social security card. Is this normal? Is this safe?