Featured Article:  Staying Safe on the Internet       by CCLT Homeowner Emmanuel Bellegarde

Internet safety has become an increasingly hot topic over the past decade as we hear more and more stories ranging from Fortune 500 firms experiencing data breaches to attacks on personal computers and identity theft.

Though the Internet itself has existed since 1969, it was with the creation of the World Wide Web in 1989-1990 and its introduction in 1991 that the Internet became an easily accessible network. That accessibility has made the internet both a gift and curse for many of its users. The access to information have undoubtedly allowed for people to be more intellectually engaged than ever before however as cyber threats increase internet and computer safety has shifted to the forefront.

Below are some things to consider with regards to internet safety.

Consider What You Share in Profiles

On social networking sites, it's common to include a lot of information on your profile. From your employer to your religious views, think twice before you put it out on the web. Make sure the information you share is suitable for all eyes.

Think About Photos before Sharing

Sharing photos can be a great way to connect with friends and family, but they can also make you vulnerable. Before sharing a picture, take a few minutes to examine the background for details. Be sure you fuzz out our crop photos that show your house address, your car license plate, and other information people could use to find you.

Check a Company's Privacy Policy before Buying

You've probably noticed that you begin receiving email or even phone calls after making a purchase. This can happen when a company shares your information and purchase history with others. Before you make any Internet purchase, check the company's privacy policy. They should never share or sell your personal data.

Watch Out for Phishing

Phishing is a common trick used by identity thieves to gain your personal information. This crime involves sending e-mails or creating sites that appear to be from a legitimate company and asking you to confirm personal information such as bank account numbers, passwords, birth dates, or addresses. PayPal and eBay are two of the most common targets for phishing scams. Before adding any personal information, contact the supposed site directly to see if they have been trying to contact you. Most reputable sites will not contact you in this way.

Keep an Eye on Accounts

If you use a credit card for online shopping, be sure to keep a close eye on the account activity. If you notice purchases that you haven't made, contact your card company immediately.

Be Aware of Your Internet Presence

Everything you do on the Internet is apparent to other users, and you should be aware of what they are seeing. In cases of cyberstalking and identity theft, someone could use your name and information to create damaging profiles or post public messages. Take a moment to "Google" yourself and see what others are seeing about you. This will keep you aware of any unauthorized use of your name, pictures, or personal information. 

Report Identity Theft

When they think of Internet safety, adults most often consider identity theft a top priority. Identity thieves can use the information they find online to drain your bank account and ruin your credit rating. In some cases, the damage caused by identity theft may even harm your future employment prospects-especially if you work in an industry that regularly does credit checks for all job applicants. If you notice that someone else is using your name, credit cards, or other personal information, contact the Federal Trade Commission right away. You can prosecute the person to clear your name and avoid any further issues.

Don't Share Access to your Computer with Strangers

Your computer operating system may allow other computers on a network, including the Internet, to access the hard-drive of your computer in order to "Share files". This ability to share files can be used to infect your computer with a virus or look at the files on your computer if you do not pay close attention. Check your operating system and other program help files ot learn how to disable file sharing. 

Keep Your Accounts Secure

In addition to protecting your privacy, it's very important to keep your Internet accounts secure. Keep these tips in mind.

Choose a Great Password

Although it may be tempting to choose a password that's easy to remember, such as your child's name, your birth date, or your favorite sports team, these kinds of passwords leave you open to identity theft and fraud. According to Consumer Reports, 32% of adults used passwords based on simple personal information.  Instead, it's better to create a password that meets the following criteria:

• Eight or more characters
• A number, as well as letters
• A special character, like %,*,@, or ?
• Upper and lowercase letters
• No personal information 

Keep Your Passwords in a Safe Spot

Because it's safer to not reuse passwords, it can be hard to remember all of them. Many people keep lists or files with the login information for their various online accounts. The safest place to store this list is on an external flash drive that you keep with you. 

Watch Out for Keyloggers and Malware

Certain computer programs, called keyloggers, can keep track of the keys you type and transmit this information to people who might want to steal your accounts. Be sure you have adequate security programs on your computer and that you are extremely careful when entering password information on public computers.

Stay Vigilant at All Times

A lapse in attention can lead you to automatically click on a link or open an email attachment that may put your computer or your information at risk. Staying vigilant can help you stay safe.

Think Before Opening Email Attachments

Don't open email attachments from people you don't know. These attachments may contain viruses or other malware. Additionally, think twice before you open an attachment from someone you do know. It's common for email accounts to get hacked, and the hackers may send messages and attachments to all of the people in the address book. If it doesn't sound like something your friend might send you, email him or her separately to find out if it's legit.

Consider the Legitimacy of Free Programs

Avoid downloading free software online unless you're certain it's from a reputable company. Many free programs are merely a device for delivering adware and spyware.

Keep Your Virus Software Up to Date

Install virus protection software and a firewall. Check for updates regularly.

Watch for Fraud

The global nature of the Internet has brought new life to scams. Some of the most common forms of Internet fraud include the following:Online auctions site postings that feature non-existent or falsely represented merchandise: 

• Nigerian money offers promising large sums of cash in exchange for assistance with bank account transfers
• Financial scams targeting consumers with poor credit who are tricked into paying upfront fees in hopes of receiving credit cards or personal loans
• Phony sweepstakes offers asking for payment to claim a prize that doesn't really exist

Back-up Your Computer Regularly

Back up all your computers onto external drives or CD's.

The CCLT wants to reassure you that we don't share your information with anyone.  If someone you don't recognize calls or emails you claiming to be from the CCLT asking for your personal information do not give them any information.  

February Black History Month Events Around Chicago:

DuSable Museum 

Though open all year round, the DuSable Museum of African American History is one of the most popular places to visit during February. It is the oldest museum in the country that is dedicated solely to the remembrance of black Americans. Located on the south side of Chicago, DuSable teaches visitors about the importance of black Americans as well as black Chicagoans throughout U.S. history.

740 East 56th Place
Chicago, IL 60637
773-947-0600 

dusablemuseum.org

Tours

To get a first-hand look at Chicago's part in African American history, take a tour around downtown. Some of the stops may include the Chicago Defender Building, the South Side Community Art Center, the Victory Monument and the former office and studio of Chess Records.

P.O. Box 201896
Chicago, IL 60620
773-233-8907 

blackcoutours.com

The exhibition at the Museum of Science and Industry

(msichicago.org) celebrates Black History Month with an exhibit featuring the achievements of African Americans. This exhibit varies from year to year.

Navy Pier

Black History Month Cruise Series aboard Spirit of Chicago

Folk music festival

February 14 - 16, 2014

Dog show

February 21 - 23, 2014

Rob has been a part of the Chicago banking community for two decades. Early on, he served under the late Tom Gobby at LaSalle Talman Bank, where he honed his skills in Community Reinvestment; and was also co-host of the bank-sponsored cable program, Chicago: Passport to the World.

In later years, he joined Fifth Third Bank's CRA (Community Reinvestment Act) group and later transitioned to Fifth Third's Retail group, where he opened and managed the Bank's first de novo LMI (Low-Moderate Income) branch in the Chicago market. Soon after, he joined U.S. Bank, serving as Vice President & Community Affairs Manager for the Chicago market.

Rob now serves as Vice President and Community Development Manager, within the Global Community Development function at Citi. In this capacity, Rob is charged with enhancing and working to fulfill Citi's mission of commitment to achieve economic empowerment and growth for underserved individuals, families and communities by expanding access to financial products and services.

His list of business and civic awards, include: the PLCC AImage Award; the Chicago Defender Men of Excellence Award; Westside Minister Coalition's Community Partner Award; the Genesis Housing Development Corporation's Community Keepers Award; and the Community Champion Award from Proactive Community Services.

Rob and his wife, Tracey, reside in Chicago's Bronzeville neighborhood.

He received a B.A. in Business Communication and English from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign; and is an active member of the following boards and committees:   

• Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago
• Chicago Community Land Trust
• Chicago Neighborhood Initiatives
• Edward G. Irvin Foundation
• City of Chicago, Department of Planning & Development (Advisory Group)
• Mercy Housing Lakefront (Executive Advisory Committee)
• Women's Business Development Center (Advisor, Chicago Microlending Institute)