Insights

Often, we wish to share information on social media in hopes of bringing joy to others or celebrating exciting events! Who wouldn't? Unfortunately, when you share some information, it can be used against you. Don't be a victim of oversharing by using the following information: Identity Theft Information posted online could potentially be used to steal your identity. Don't unnecessarily share information used with "challenge question" answers. Social Engineering You may refrain from posting personal information on social networks, however, your profile data alone could potentially be used in social engineering schemes. Limit what is shared. This can also be used to compromise your work accounts. Real-world Threats Posting about upcoming trips or vacations my open you up to threats like stalking, home burglary or even abduction.  We suggest sharing photos and travel activity after you've returned. Location sharing in general paints a picture of your regular activities and habits,…

On February 19th, an extremist, Tobias Rathjen, shot and killed at least nine people in Hanau, Germany before taking his own life. Fueled by racism, hatred, and paranoia, extremists pose a significant risk to citizens of all nations. Unfortunately, this event is one of many in a series of active shooter incidents whose frequency is becoming increasingly regular. That is why Léargas constantly ingests forums, chat rooms, pastebins, and social media sites on the clear and dark web in an attempt to provide advanced warning to those in immediate danger. In most cases, the troubled individual will post numerous online comments, essays, or videos prior to carrying out the attack. Most of these indicators can be found in the online forums frequented by those with extremist beliefs. Léargas has captured indicators surrounding five active shooter situations over the past year, including the Christchurch, New Zealand incident. Leargas began alerting on…

The Equifax breach was considered one of the largest data breaches to threaten the private information of Americans. The company agreed to pay a settlement of up to $700 million dollars to settle investigations on the state and federal level. The deadline for victims to file a claim was in January. Patrick Kelley discusses how this breach impacts citizens. Read More

Here are a few ways to stay as safe as possible when receiving phishing emails. 1.  Know the red flags. The most common types of scams will target you through fake emails (a technique known as phishing), text messages (SMSishing or smishing) voice calls (vishing), letters or even someone who shows up at your front door unexpectedly. No matter which technique the criminal uses these are the common things they try: Pressure you to send money Threaten you with law enforcement action Tell you to purchase gift cards and provide codes as a form of payment Ask you to cash a check for them or send money via wire transfer Ask you to deposit a check that overpays for something you're selling, and then send the difference elsewhere 2. Don’t provide account or personal information via email or text. Your bank will never email, or text and ask for this…