We’re all familiar with the saying “the devil is in the details.” When it comes to downloading apps, it might be worthwhile to check out the developer’s details  before allowing access to your smart device especially if you’re using an Android. You may  inadvertently give permission to  complete strangers to mine your personal data and use as if it were their own.

Apps for Androids use open source software as the basis for each program meaning it is  available to the general public and open to any and everyone. There are no safety features built in to protect your personal data and some apps infiltrate your device when you agree to their terms.

The developers at Apple must meet certain guidelines and submit their programs for approval. If it isn’t approved it cannot be listed or sold. This is NOT an endorsement for Apple products –  it is a comparison to help consumers understand the choices they make when dealing with  Apple and Android apps.

Take a moment to read before you click on agree and make sure you are comfortable with your decision to purchase an app. They are not all the same and there is no generic warning or advice in place. Small print can make a big difference in how and what you buy. Common sense is the best approach to using your purchasing power and there is no app for that!

Grateful to Ocala The Good Life Magazine for featuring Scammunition as their cover story! Here’s how to take a peek!    http://bit.ly/1D7vHd6

It’s that time of year again when deals and steals work  hand in hand. Online shopping is a breeze but consumers need to steer clear of pet scams, infected pizza, and phony payment plans. Here’s a look at some of the latest themes and schemes that will have buyers saying “No! No! No!” instead of “Ho! Ho! Ho!”

Warm fuzzy puppies can make a great gift for responsible pet lovers. Unfortunately, devious scammers use  pictures of non-existent animals as a ploy to lure unsuspecting buyers into deals that deplete funds and causes heartache when the promised pet doesn’t appear.  Never purchase a pet sight unseen and be leery of requests for additional charges for shipping, insurance, and unsubstantiated vet fees. Check out the facility where the dogs are kept and contact the American Kennel Club if purchasing a purebred dog. Be cautious of any deal that sounds too good to be true.

Pizza is the go-to choice for many families during the hectic holidays. Recently people in several states have received emailed coupons offering free pizza from Pizza Hut in honor of their  “55th Anniversary”  and the offer really is too good to be true. The coupon contains malware and if downloaded will cause damage to your computer system. Before clicking on the offer look at the sender’s address. Is it from Pizza Hut? Does hovering over the coupon show pizzahut.com? Did you find the email in your junk folder? Is Pizza Hut advertising the special deal on their website? If in doubt, toss it out!

PayPal is a convenient way for sellers and buyers to conduct payment transactions online. Scammers often “spoof” (impersonate) legitimate business sites in an effort to get your personal information and PayPal is not immune. Beware of  generic greetings in emails listing PayPal as the sender.  PayPal addresses each email with the full first and last names of their customers or the actual business name. They do not send attachments nor do they request bank account numbers, Social Security numbers, or passwords. If you suspect any suspicious activity on your account visit www.paypal.com or call 1-888-221-1161. Forward questionable emails to spoof@paypal.com.

It seems each year we need to learn something new in order to protect ourselves and loved ones from fraud. Please share what you know with others. Safety is a great gift and it’s free!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS & HAPPY NEW YEAR!