The Federal Trade Commission National Do Not Call Registry

The Federal Trade Commission National "Do Not Call" Registry

The FTC's national "do not call" registry is now up and running. After opting out on the CDT site, I suggest you navigate to the FTC site at http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/edcams/donotcall/index.html and opt out of telemarketing calls and junk faxes. Links to both sites are on the Invasion of Privacy homepage at http://www.mjweber.com/iop/privacy.htm.

Figure 13.3: The FTC "do not call" registry

Don't Fall for Strong-Arm Tactics

Just because a Web site insists that you register doesn't mean you have to tell them your life story. You don't have to tell them anything! I often submit a bogus name and e-mail address to insistent Web sites that I visit only occasionally. The three most effective techniques for protecting your privacy apply universally .

• When in doubt, leave it out!

• Practice stealth!

• Use your digital doppelganger!

Beware of Web Sites with No User Agreement

Web sites that ask you to provide even innocuous information can learn a lot about you by connecting your browsing habits to your data. They can decipher the sites you visit, the type of computer you use, and what your interests are. Never register with a Web site that doesn't have a user agreement or a privacy policy.

Opt Out When You Register

Registering with certain Web sites, such as eBay, provides a real benefit. But it's up to you to track down their privacy policies for instruction on how to opt out of all nonessential contact, information exchange, and third-party information sharing. Don't leave this until later ”opt out now!

Figure 13.4: eBay opt-out options

Transactional Passwords versus Convenience

When it comes to registering with a site with which you intend to conduct business, such as a banking site, Amazon, or UPS, remember to employ secure password basics. However, many sites require a different password approach ”convenience! I want instant access to sites with which I don't exchange confidential information, such as newspapers, downloads, and gaming. When it comes to registering with convenience sites, I use the same user name and password across the board. It's simple to remember, such as user name "john," password "lennon" or user name "miami," password "vice." That way I don't have to think twice to log on.