What’s “S” for, Anyway? Ever notice certain website changes when you’re making online purchases? There’s an “s” which appears after HTTP, for starters. This let’s you know you’re on a secure server. Also, check status bar on window you’re using to make purchase. You should see a yellow padlock -- mouse over lock and you’ll see encryption level for site.

If you don’t see both of these items, do not make purchase right now and notify vendor. Go back and make purchase at a later time.

I Didn’t Charge Two Dollars Every month, without fail, I want to you check your statements from your credit union, bank, brokerage, credit card companies -- any institution from which you receive a paper statement or an online statement. If bad guys have access to your account, they may try and slip in a small charge before coming with big guns. Take a look at each and every line item and verify you’ve made purchase. If something is amiss, call that institution immediately.

The Joy of Shredding I have a special “shred” basket near my desk and shred all of basket’s contents at end of work day. My personal receipts, which I no longer need and have reconciled against my online statements, get shredded. All working documents I’ve printed or proofed, especially for my attorney clients, are blitzed at end of day as well. Anything which may personally identify me or one of my clients gets treatment.

You have no logical excuse for not owning a shredder. Price? Hardly an issue. You don’t have a car to get to office supply store? If you’re reading this article that means you’ve got internet access. Start a new browser window NOW and access your favorite online office supply vendor. You’ll have your new shredder in a matter of days and you too can become a Shredder Queen (or King).

We live in a different world from just a generation ago. Be smart, be aware and remember that if something seems too good to be true, it is.