There’s some interesting reading, for those who want to learn more about cyber crime and how it’s progressing, over at CNN.com today. The article “Cybercrime: A Secret Underground Economy” takes you through the process of ‘how the deed is done’ and gives estimates for what varying pieces of information go for on the online Black Market.

From the article –

“Online criminals use the IRCs to sell or trade your credit card or bank account information. Credit cards are some of the cheapest commodities sold on the Internet Black Market, averaging about 98 cents each when sold in bulk. A full identity goes for just $10. Credit cards and bank account information made up 51% of the goods advertised on the underground economy last year, up from 38% in 2007.”

Important to note, too, is the final point in the article, referencing the fact that the next step for users to safeguard their identities online, beyond using security software, is being aware and educated about how to protect your private information, like bank account numbers and credit card details.

And, speaking of the importance of this kind of education, we’re quickly approaching October, which is National Cyber Security Awareness Month – a public awareness campaign to encourage everyone to protect their computers and cyber infrastructures. This year’s theme is based on the idea of “our shared responsibility”, and the understanding that all of our individual actions have a collective impact on cyber security. Check StaySafeOnline.org for information on how you can get involved – from home users to educators to businesses.  We’ll keep you posted here with more information.