Posts Tagged ‘consumer data protection act’

Tax season is a major time for cybercriminals and with more and more people filing their taxes online, we’re sure to see an increase in hacking activity this year. So, be prepared and be safe. F-Secure & Privacy Rights Clearinghouse offer tips.

1. Update your OS and security software to ensure you have all the latest security updates
2. Don’t send tax documents by email – to your spouse, accountant, or anyone. Mail it instead!
3. If you have to share some personal information by email, consider password protecting it. It’s not foolproof, but it’s better than nothing.
4. Choose better passwords
5. Make sure the software you use – or your accountant uses – is following government regulations for security. Check third party reviews, if you must. Cheaper isn’t always better!
6. Shred old tax records that are past their keep-date – don’t just throw them out!

Also, beware of cybersecurity phishing scams – don’t click on links sent to you in emails, even if they appear to come from the government! Always go directly to the website and double check – or call – to see if the “offer”, “reminder,” etc is real.

Despite the indications that the Consumer Data Protection Act [PDF] would be passed by California’s Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, it has been vetoed for the second time. Read the veto here [PDF].

The Consumer Data Protection Act would have required retailers and businesses in California to take more strict steps to protect credit and debit card data, and to disclose more details about data breaches to those affected. The State Assembly and Senate both approved the bill for the second time in 12 months, after modifications had brought it back to a vote.

Governor Schwarzenegger says that he has rejected the bill for the same reasons as before, the belief that legislature should not interfere with business, and that the bill attempts:

“to legislate in an area where the marketplace has already assigned responsibilities and liabilities that provide for the protection of consumers,” he wrote.”

Schwarzenegger believes the payment card industry (PCI) is in a better position to set standards in technology and the marketplace, and believes legislation would create a conflict with private sector standards.

According to Visa, only 45% of large retailers are compliant with current PCI standards, so I would think that the private sector needs some assistance with enforcement.

What’s your opinion on legislation like this? Good or bad?

Thanks to Charles for the tip! Via computerworld, IT business, Washington Post Image: gov.ca.gov