How to deal with phishing attacks: There is a constant stream of Phishing attacks coming in to our systems from seemingly trustworthy sources. This is a quick tutorial on what you can and should do to protect yourself

Many Skype users are getting a rather disturbing call. It indicates that there is a problem with your computer and you should visit a site to repair your service. This is a complete scam.

Phishing is a method used to trick individuals into revealing confidential information. For example, an email from your "bank" asking you to login and check your balance. These emails are a threat to your security which is why we'll tell you

what phishing is

and

how to avoid becoming a victim

in this tutorial.

If you're

worried about online shopping

and you don't want to give up your credit card details when

Christmas shopping online

, consider PayPal. This simple service links up with your credit card or bank account and adds a layer of security to your

online shopping

. Aside from being a great way to

shop safely online

, PayPal lets you

shop online without a credit card

.

McAfee's Avert Labs has noticed an alarming trend. The amount of malware cataloged in the first half of 2009 has tripled the number for the same period in 2008.

Malware is any "malicious software" designed to damage computers or steal information

. This upward trend of

malware online

shows once again that users need to be vigilant to ensure they don't become a victim.

Often times, spam emails contain a web address (URL) that the reader is expected to click on. This leads them to a place they didn't really want to go or offers them a download they don't really want. Now spammers are using shortened URLs, like those created by a number of online services, to hide their misdirection. As ever, the message is beware of URLs in your email and only click if you're sure you know what you're in for.

In Internet Explorer 7 Microsoft introduced its anti-Phishing component. Phishing, you'll recall, is when the perpetrators try to convince you that their email is from your bank or other institution and lure you to a fraudulent Web site to steal your information. In Internet Explorer 8 SmartScreen Filter takes the battle against malware and phishing a step further.

Those who prey on others via spam and phishing have already jumped on the swine flu bandwagon. McAfee Avert Labs has reported a dramatic increase in swine flu related spam and phishing attacks.

A strong password is the first step in making sure you and your personal information stay safe online. We'll show you how to choose a good, strong password that will be very difficult to "crack" but still easy for you to remember. Here are some practical password-creation tips you can start using right away.

Michael "Doc" Callahan runs through the finer points of online safety and security for parents, kids or just about anyone who wants a better understanding online safety, how to protect against online theft, phishing scams, spyware, viruses and more.

One of the newer tricks put in use to steal your identity, account numbers, and passwords, is called "Phishing." In the early days of this evil practice the user had to be ever vigilant, but today there are some tools to help you.

Andy and Sean delve in to the scary world of identity theft. No, they're not joining the criminal underworld, they're offering practical advice you can use right now to protect yourself from this massive white collar crime phenomenon in both your online and offline life.
Must see moment: The look on Andy's face when Sean shreds part of his book.

Michael "Doc" Callahan runs through the finer points of online safety and security for parents, kids or just about anyone who wants a better understanding online safety, how to protect against online theft, phishing scams, spyware, viruses and more.