Does TurboTax store information locally if tax file is saved removable media [migrated]
Does TurboTax store "sensitive" or "personal information" locally if tax file is saved on removable media?
Author Archives: paulj
Planting a flag providing additional information risk [closed]
A popular well-known security blog states that one should plant a flag at certain entities in order that they do not get claimed by hacker. e.g. IRS.gov, ssa.gov, etc.
On this list is setting up online accounts at CRAs such as TransUnion.
… Continue reading Planting a flag providing additional information risk [closed]
Utilities and apps that bypass Google password/security
How do applications(UnlockGo) that allow one to connect their Android to PC work in removing password?
I thought the password also is used to encrypt Android device. Is the data erased? i.e. Encrypting and using password still useful even … Continue reading Utilities and apps that bypass Google password/security
Email and purchase order history
I have a common email (gmail, outlook, mail, etc) provider that I use to purchase from different merchants (amazon, target, etc).
Since some of these providers have had breaches before, do there exist security best practices around deletin… Continue reading Email and purchase order history
Does having secondary email for 2FA increase security
Bank account have portals that one can access online.
After entering my uname/password, OTP is sent via SMS to mobile phone.
After entering OTP and password again, one is allowed access to online banking portal.
My concern is what happens … Continue reading Does having secondary email for 2FA increase security
General sites or documentation that specificies common information security points for individuals( small business) [closed]
I am wondering if there are concise sites that deal with how individuals can mitigate risks from data breaches, stolen phones, phishing attacks.
e.g.
Contact credit bureaus to create freeze with pin.
Online financial or medical transactio… Continue reading General sites or documentation that specificies common information security points for individuals( small business) [closed]
How to mitigate ransomware from locking attached storage
I have OSX. Time machine takes periodic backups. This backup is encrypted.
If my machine were to be infected and locked by ransomware, what prevents the backup from also being comprised as it is just attached storage? I believe that once d… Continue reading How to mitigate ransomware from locking attached storage
What are the risks to my router when behind cable modem?
Many tech sites suggest using dd-wrt as many manufactures have swiss-cheese security with their routers.e.g. Firmware hardcoded "backdoors/admin tools".
However, if the router is behind a Arris cable modem(without router), do rea… Continue reading What are the risks to my router when behind cable modem?
Is there agreement between non-google security "experts" on whether virus protection apps for Android
Do most security experts recommend/not recommend anti-virus apps for Androids?
What is the position/protocols of different governmental departments of US, UK, France?
What of running older versions of Android and anti-virus/malware apps?
What happens if I reuse passwords
I want to understand the risk in reusing complex password.
Unique complex passwords for each and every email account, say 3.
All other accounts, bank, medical, social, share a complex password, 1
This makes a total of 4 passwords.