General Information & Resource Blog

The Internet, as many know, is not fail safe. Hackers and identity thieves can wreck havoc on someones personal finances unless steps are taken to protect the security of account numbers, passwords, and PINs. Additionally, investments that often sound like no-brainers all too often turn out to be frauds, according to the Federal Trade Commission.

An individuals personal information is valuable and it must be protected. For instance, if a computer user receives an email pop-up or message asking for personal information, he or she must never reply or click on the link in the message. Email should never be used to transmit personal information. Also, pop-ups such as these may contain viruses or a piece of spyware that can log a users key-strokes when typing in an account number, password, or PIN. The safest course of action is to never respond to requests for personal or financial information over the computer.

When it comes to investments, investors should not access an online investment account until they know the site is secure. For instance, look for a key or closed padlock icon on the browsers status bar or a website URL that begins https: (the s stands for secure). Unfortunately, no indicator is foolproof; scammers have also forged security icons to fool users.

Investors should keep their passwords in a secure place, out of plain view, and avoid storing them on the computer. Avoid sharing passwords over the Internet, over email, or on the phone. Investors who access their accounts in a public place should be careful to position themselves so that no one can see their hands or screen.

In addition, hackers may try to figure out a password to gain access to a personal computer. Using passwords that have at least eight characters and include numbers or symbols can make it harder to access the password. The longer a password, the harder it is for a hacker to discover it. Users should also avoid common words, as some hackers use programs that try every word in the dictionary. Its also important to change passwords frequently and not use the same password for each online account an individual accesses.

Anti-virus and anti-spyware software are also a must-have for those who make financial transactions online. Anti-virus programs can remove or quarantine viruses, while anti-spyware software can undo changes spyware makes to a system. Make sure that both programs update automatically.

If available, a security token can make it even harder for an identity theft to access an online investment account. These small number-generating devices offer a second layer of security – a one-time pass-code that changes every 30 to 60 seconds. Security tokens can successfully frustrate the attempts by identity thieves.

Many investors may also be traveling business people who can access their accounts in cafes, hotels, airports, and other public places. These are hot spots for ideal places for identity thieves. Users are playing it safe if they decide that accessing an online investment on a public wireless connection isnt worth the security risk.

To avoid online investment scams, investors should always independently verify claims. Before making an investment, turn to unbiased sources, such as the U.S. Securities and Exchange

Commission, a state securities regulator, and self-regulatory organizations such as Amex and Nasdaq. Fraudsters will falsely assure investors that an investment is properly registered with the appropriate agency and provide a contact to verify. Instead of speaking with a government official, the number will lead you to the fraudster or their colleagues, who will give the company, the promoter, or the transaction high marks.

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“If you’re feeling like you’re a bit overwhelmed with the pressures of the big city, it might be time to experience a big city without all the stress. In Sydney, Australia the residents carry a unique laid-back lifestyle that seamlessly meshes with the distinctive high style, ultra-modern, & eco-friendly surroundings. Home to the largest natural harbour in the world, Sydney experiences an average of 300 days of sunshine, exudes a friendly charm, and bursts with creative energy (home to artists like AC/DC, INXS, & Natalia Imbruglia). Plus, the city is a frequent stop for international tours with acts such as The Police, Elton John, The Killers, & Justin Timberlake.

Discovered by the English in 1770, Sydney has rapidly developed and established itself as an economic & financial powerhouse of the Southern Hemisphere. Sydney was founded on immigration, and to this day it is a very cosmopolitan city that features dizzying skyscrapers, an efficient Metro Monorail, and the oldest continuously running airport in the world. To learn more about Sydney’s historical origins, explore the Australian Museum, which includes a feature on the city’s first inhabitants, the Aboriginals. As well, Sydney’s modern metropolis is full of fantastic shopping destinations such as Pitt Street Mall, The Galleries, Sydney Central Plaza, & Centrepoint. Plus, Elizabeth, Castelreagh, and King Streets are known for their distinctive high-end shops such as Ralph Lauren Polo, Burberry, Chanel, and Tiffany’s.

However, apart from its modern city attractions, Sydney is best known for its one-of-a-kind twin landmarks, the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. The Opera House is a world-renown building that features five theatres, five rehearsal studios, four restaurants, six bars, two main halls, and several souvenir shops. Built over 14 years in three separate stages, the Opera House’s unique wind-sail design, location on the harbour waterfront, and state-of-the-art performance halls have made it an iconic Sydney symbol across the globe.

The Sydney Harbour Bridge is the highest steel arch bridge in the world and was constructed in 1932. Built during the Great Depression, the bridge became a symbol of Sydney residents’ (or Sydneysiders) perseverance through tough times and has become a focal point for many of the city’s huge celebrations, including the unforgettable Sydney New Year’s Eve Party. In its current state, the bridge includes eight lanes of roadway traffic, two railway tracks, a bike path, footpath, and the famous BridgeClimb, where you can take guided tours up to the very top of the bridge, at a height of 134 metres.

Being a part of the largest natural harbour in the world certainly has its charms, and one of Sydney’s greatest attractions is its natural beauty. Starting from the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens, you can take a short 20 min. trip out to East Sydney where you’ll find the picturesque Bondi Beach, famous for its plentiful year-round surf. Also, be sure not to miss Manly Beach, a long strip of beautiful sand just across from Sydney Harbour on the Northern Beaches of Sydney. While in the North Harbour, be on the lookout for the city’s small warm weather penguins. After a day on the beach, you can explore Sydney’s exciting nightlife at King’s Cross, Darling Harbour, or The Rocks.

If you’re planning on exploring this fun city for yourself, considering staying at the Rydges World Square Sydney, a relaxing hotel that is right in the heart of the Central Business District. Formally the Avillion Hotel Sydney, the Rydges World Square features doorstep-access to the World Square Monorail, connecting you to great city attractions like Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour, Sydney Entertainment Center, and the shopping and financial sectors of downtown. Plus, the hotel is a great place to kick back after a day in the city, with high speed & secure wireless internet access, fully-equipped fitness center, electronic safes, and cozy Dream© beds. On your next Sydney vacation, stay like a Sydneysider at the Rydges World Square, an accommodation that embodies the friendly, laid-back charm of the city.”