My Yahoo Messenger account was stolen...

[bellystrokes]

A lot of scams will send you an email notifying you that they need to verify or update or have something cool for you and will provide a link to get to their site. Clicking on that link and actually going to that page is usually not the problem (I think, so feel free to correct me if you know better).

However, in order to verify, update, view, etc, the sammers will tell you to type in email address and password, so they know it is you, etc. And that is where (I think) the stealing of account takes place.

Again, I dont claim to be a computer whiz so if I am incorrect, please jump in and spank me, er I mean correct me. Thank you.

 

[venray]

You are right....for the most part that is how it is done...there are other more technical ways, but if you keep your security and windows updated it usually helps...

Also set your messengers so that they do not accept or send files, pics or anything except messages and only from those known to you....

You can always allow them from people you know after prompted, but make sure you know it is them.....

 

[bellystrokes]

Ok, more questions:

1. If someone sends me a file via IM---does that put me at risk, or do I have to do something that will enable to steal the account?

2. How do I set my IM up or check to see if is set up that way?

Thanks.

 

[TklDuo-Ann]

Ok, more questions:

1. If someone sends me a file via IM---does that put me at risk, or do I have to do something that will enable to steal the account?

2. How do I set my IM up or check to see if is set up that way?

Thanks.

It depends on what they are sending you. However, leaving yourself open to recieve files also gives hackers a door to enter your system without your knowledge. So, keeping them blocked is your best bet.

Most IM programs have preferences, options and security settings. What it's called will depend on which program you're using. You'll have to pull things up and look to see the options. Each has the choice to allow or block things like file transfers, vid cams, voice chat, etc. All of these extras provide opportunities for hackers to get in. So, keeping them blocked when not in use is advisable. Believe me. It's worth the whole 30 seconds it takes to change the setting if you know the other person is who they say they are and open access for them.

While we're on the subject of security, just a little reminder for those with high speed connections... Higher connection speed doesn't just mean that you can get to things more quickly. Hackers can as well...including things in your system. So, unplugging the cable that runs from your modem to your computer slams the door shut when you aren't there using the computer. It only takes 5 seconds to reestablish the connection. Compare that to the hours it takes to nuke your system, and it's definately worth it.

Ann

 

[Ticklish_shorty]

I'm not much of a poster here on this site...but..when i came back from Vacation yesterday, i went to sign on and found that my account has been stolen too. What really confuses me is that i dont click links i dont know, and i dont accept files from anyone. So, i really have no idea how it happened. I wonder what is new thats going around. I also play WoW and noticed a disclaimer on the login page about password protection. Seems there is some kind of new phishing program flying around out there. 😡

also, if you get a msg from me on yahoo...you know the drill. sigh....

 

[tiklir]

From what the yahoos told me...there is actually a fake yahoo home page and subsequent sign on screens....you may go to sign into your mail and actually hand out your password. The fix they have available is a security seal..once you put it on your computer it will appear in any genuine yahoo sign in session other than messenger. Look into it..I am using it. So far so good.
T.

 

[bellystrokes]

From what the yahoos told me...there is actually a fake yahoo home page and subsequent sign on screens....you may go to sign into your mail and actually hand out your password. The fix they have available is a security seal..once you put it on your computer it will appear in any genuine yahoo sign in session other than messenger. Look into it..I am using it. So far so good.
T.

Is that the one where you can select color, create your own image or phrase (but not your password)? Thanks.

 

[tiklir]

Yes that would be it.

 

[bellystrokes]

Yes that would be it.

thanks, I googled it and apparently it is a legit thing. I too was worried that it was another well-executed con job. Oh, to be the trusting and instant gratification type..............