Epsilon Email Security Breach

It's started with an email from Smith's. They had a security breach and wanted to let their customers know that there email list had been compromised. Pehaps you got the email too.

At the time I'm thinking “I'm not too worried what will they do, steal my coupons”  Then the same message from Best Buy and Walgreens, a little more concerning, I've shopped online at both of those.  Today something more serious, my bank!  Chances are you've been getting these emails from companies you do business with too.

Epsilon, a marketing services firm based in Dallas, has warned clients that a massive breach in an email database may have exposed the names and emails of thousands of users. You can view a list of the effected clients HERE.

Here's a few email security reminders:

*When shopping or paying your bills online don't store your credit card information.

*When making a purchase online look for the security lock icon at the bottom right of your screen before entering your credit card information. Click on it and you'll see the companies security information. Including cookie information, dates of license. Stored information etc.
(There's actually been a few daily deal sites I won't  publish because their security license isn't up to date.)

*Don't send your User ID or password in an email

*Don't respond to emails that require  you to enter personal information directly into the email

*Don't respond to e-mails threatening to close your account if you do not take the immediate action of providing personal information.

*Don't reply to e-mails asking you to send personal information.

*Don't use your email address as a login ID or password.

*Change your passwords periodically. Now would be a good time.

If you'd like to read more about this security breach The Christian Science Monitor has a good related story.