E-mail, the Internet, automated teller machines (ATM), computer banking, long distance carriers, even credit cards make our lives more efficient, However, as our lives become more integrated with technology keeping our private information confidential becomes more difficult. Electronic transactions can leave you vulnerable to fraud and other crimes. Following a few simple tips can help keep your code from being cracked. A Word on Passwords Whether you are on the Internet or an online banking program, you are often required to use a password. The worst passwords to use are the ones that come to mind first—name, spouse's name, maiden name, pets, children's name, even street addresses, etc. The best passwords mix numbers 4 with upper and lowercase letters. A password that is not found in the dictionary is even better. There are programs that will try every word in the dictionary in an effort to crack your security. Don't be a "Joe"—someone who uses their name as their password. The weakest link in a security system is the human clement. The fewer people who have access to your codes and passwords the better. Avoid breaks in your security by ■ Changing your password regularly. ■ Memorizing your password. If you have several, set up a system for remembering them. If you do write down the password, keep tt at home or hidden at work. Don't write your password on a post-it note and stick it on your monitor or hard drive. ■ Setting up a special account or setting aside a different computer at work tor temporary help and other unauthorized users. ■ 11 you have the option of letting your computer or a Web site remember a password for you, don't use it. Anyone who uses your machine will have automatic access to information that is password protected. Don't send confidential, financial, or personal information on your e-mail system. Shopping in Cyberspace Ordering merchandise from the Internet is the trend of the future. You can prevent problems before they occur by ■ Doing business with companies you know and trust. It you haven't heard of the company before, research it or ask tor a paper catalog before you decide to order electronically. Check with your state consumer protection agency on whether the company is licensed or registered. Fraudulent companies can appear and disappear very quickly in cyberspace. Understanding the offer. Look carefully at the products or services the company is offering. Be sure you know what is being sold, the quality being specified, the total price, the delivery date, the return and cancellation policy, and all the terms of any guarantee. Using a secure browser that will encrypt or scramble purchase information. If there is no encryption software, consider calling the company's 800 number, faxing your order, or paying with a check. Never giving a bank account or credit card number or other personal information to anyone you don't know or haven't checked out. And don't provide information that isn't necessary to make a purchase. Even with partial information, con artists can make unauthorized charges or take money from your ac- count. If you have an even choice between using your credit card and mailing cash, check, or money order, use a credit card. You can always dispute fraudulent credit card charges but you can't get cash back. Spam—unsolicited e-mail. o Report it to your online or Internets- service provider. Using ATMs, Long Distance Phone Services, and Credit Cards Protect Your Personal Identification Number (PIN) ■ The PIN is one method used by banks and phone companies to protect your account from unauthorized access. A PIN is a confidential code issued to the cardholder to permit access to that account. Your PIN should be memorized, secured and not given to anyone, not even family members or bank employees. The fewer people who have access to your PIN, the better. ■ Never write your PIN on ATM or long distance calling cards. Don't write your PIN on a piece of paper and place it in your wallet. If your wallet and card are lost or stolen, someone will have everything they