Unplggd: Cafe Security

“Q – I usually work from home, but sometimes I enjoy going to my local coffee shop and doing my stuff there. There are times when I just have all my stuff sprawled out and need to use the restroom. Is there some type of software that’ll tell me if anything gets stolen while I’m away for just a few minutes? I own a Macbook and an iPad, if that helps. Thanks!

A – Here’s a short roundup of potential options:

THE “FEEL GOOD” OPTION: There’s are number of software options out there, but one should avoid ones like PadLock, which causes a piercing alarm to go off whenever your iPad/iPhone is disconnected from your Macbook. The only problem is that it doesn’t address the whole scenario if the thief ends up grabbing both devices, making the software pretty much useless. While some form of protection is good, it’s best to have more than just a single security precaution, even if it makes you feel warm and fuzzy inside.

THE SLIGHTLY BETTER SOFTWARE OPTION: Of course, there’s Apple’s Find my iPhone/iPad service is probably the only reason we’d use their MobileMe’s at all given the number of free options out there that provide similar cloud syncing features of the service. TUAW has a good write-up on how to set it up. (PS: A paid subscription is required for MobileMe service) The downside is that it’s only used to track down items after it’s stolen instead of prevention of the device getting stolen in the first place.

THE SLOWER, MORE SECURE OPTION: If you’re looking for the best secure option, having a security lock is probably your best bet. Even if the thing isn’t even properly locked, the impression of added security will deter most thieves.

OR… JUST ASK: For the most part, customers are just friendly folk enjoying their time there as well, doing work just like the rest of us. If you’re just going to disappear for a few minutes, just ask a neighbor next to you to watch your stuff if they look like they’re going to be there for a while. Chances are, others will notice the friendly gesture and will be wary of shady individuals if they try to do anything sneaky!

Got a gadget security tip for coffee shops, airports, and other public spaces? Let us know below!

By Anthony”

Image via Europe a la Carte.

Unplggd: Computer Security Myths

“When it comes down to spyware, viruses, and phishing scams, any personal computer can become a target to take your information, sell it, and make your digital life a living nightmare. To make sure you’re in the know, we’ve adapted Giz’s excellent roundup of computer myths and emphasized a few more of our own.

TOP 5 COMPUTER SECURITY, DEBUNKED:

1. Macs can’t get viruses. Oh yes, they can. Buffer exploits, trojans, and other malicious codes can put your computer on lock down. While the PC share is still running high at 90%, the more popular Mac computers get, the more likely they’ll become a target in the future. So proceed with caution, don’t click random links, and avoid software piracy.

2. My e-mail inbox is spam-free. If you think you’ve never received a single spam address, you’ve either never publicly used it for e-mail or have your spam filter turned off. Make sure it’s on. Otherwise, you’re just asking for a flurry of phishing e-mails to come into your mailbox.

3. We’re getting better at virus protection. One would think that with more complex software systems that we’d be improving on all fronts, especially security. Wrong. The more the complex the system, the easier it is to poke holes it in, or – in McAfee‘s case, mistakenly identify a critical system process as a virus and screw everything up. Antivirus software is good, but one must be educated catch it when it trips up.

4. Phishing only happens to other people. Someone trying to steal my social security number and Facebook password? In a million years! This kind of mentality is fresh meat for identity thieves and will get you into a lot of trouble. Ever get a random Facebook App invite from friends you rarely ever hear from? Chances are they’ve fallen victim to malware and are now virtual zombies in your Facebook friends pool. Again, don’t click any links that even hint at something fishy.

5. My hard drive is safe. Again and again, we’ve spoken to people, even CEOs of companies, who fail do to the simple act of backing up their data. Back up your data. Not only will this make your life much less of a nightmare when any of the above were to occur, but the average hard drive life is barely ten years – though many of us here have seen them as short as two. Always make sure you’ve got your important stuff on in at least two places.

Got a computer security tip to share? Let us know in the comments!

[Image: Macgeek13]

[Adapted from Gizmodo]

By Anthony”