protecting orkut accounts

Problem :- General methods of hacking an Account and How to protect our Orkut account from being hacked.

Description :- There are a lot of methods of hacking an account. Explanation of each method in detail is not possible here, but I'm listing them out and trying to give you all the possible measures you should take to protect your account.
General methods of hacking Orkut a/c:-

1. Phishing using fake page.
2. Using Keyloggers / remote key loggers.
3. Brute force attack.
4. Using Java Scripts.
5. Using greasemonkey scripts.
6. By cookie stealing method.
7. By sending fake mails and asking you to log in to some site with Orkut id and password given in the mail.
8. Other methods.


Protecting your Orkut account from being hacked :Always remember these points:

1 Donot ever login to any site rather than www.orkut.com. Always check the Url in the address bar of the browser before logging in.( If you feel suspicious and are not sure about the link come to help forum and post the link here. You will be confirmed whether the links is safe or not.)

2 Do not ever run any javascripts while logged into your orkut account.

3 Never use any flooder in your account.

4 Do not ever share your password with anyone else and keep changing your password regularly. Always use strong password:
http://www.google.com/support/accounts/bin/answer.py?hl=en&answer=32040

5 Do not ever click suspicious link while logged into Orkut a/c. if you are curious you can copy the link and check them in 
other browser after cleaning it's browser's cookie and cache.

6 Do not ever install any suspicious script on greasemoneky and ALWAYS DIABLE THE GM before logging in to orkut.

7. Do not forget to click on LOG OUT link after you are done using orkut  (specially when you are on a public computer).

8. Do not forget to uncheck "REMEMBER ME" option at the log in page when you are on a public computer, and Clear Browser's cookie, cache and saved password after you are done surfing.

9. Do your mobile verification also, so that you can get back your a/c if hacker doesn't change the mobile number there.
http://www.orkut.co.in/Main#MobileSetupSettings

10. Install a good Update Ant ivirus and Anti Key logger and keep your system free from Key loggers and backdoor trojans.
Install google pack:
http://pack.google.com/intl/en/pack_installer.html?hl=en&gl=us
  
Prevent viruses and spywares on Orkut:
http://www.google.com/support/orkut/bin/answer.py?answer=57431


11. Use Virtual Keyboard to enter your password for more securite. KIS 2010 provides it and there are many other V.
keyboards available.

Take a look here and follow the points given to protect your a/c:
http://www.google.com/support/orkut/bin/answer.py?hl=en&answer=57442
and
http://www.google.com/support/orkut/bin/answer.py?hl=en&answer=48579
and
http://www.google.com/support/orkut/bin/answer.py?hl=en&answer=46526


If you will follow these points, it's highly unlikely that you will ever get hacked. Stay safe..;)

Note :- If you get hacked, then kindly check this:
http://www.google.com/support/forum/p/orkut/thread?tid=39fa418ed1162078&hl=en


hope this helps you...;)

happy Orkutting..

You are welcome for further suggestions/queries.

Safety: Protect your orkut account - Safety tips

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Using orkut is a great way to meet new people and get in touch with old friends. But it's also used by millions of people and there are certain things orkut members should keep in mind while using the site. Due to orkut's open nature, we realize that users' accounts can become compromised through phishing schemes, viruses and spyware. Fortunately, users can help secure their own account and their online identity quickly and easily. Here are some general tips and guidelines you should follow when using orkut:

Protect your password and personal information

Keep your username, password and personal information secret, and change your password regularly. Don't forget to never tell anyone your password! Your Google Account password protects your orkut account so keep it to yourself. Also try to avoid scams and sites that may try to steal your password.
Never enter your Google Account username and password on sites other than www.orkut.com and other Google properties. Never select the "remember me" option when you're using a public or shared computer.
If you've shared your password with anyone, we highly recommend you change it as soon as possible. If you believe someone has taken over your account, file a report for us. We'll be able to return your account if we can confirm that you're the owner.

Don't script, ever!

Never copy and paste a web address or script (code) into your Internet browser while signed into orkut, no matter what it claims to do. Don't click links in scraps or emails that claim to be from orkut, Google or Gmail. Don't forget to scan your computer regularly for viruses, spyware, and adware.
Orkut doesn't use your email address for any purpose other than sending out orkut invitations and notices. We find spam annoying and are committed to keeping your email address safe. We'll never send you spam emails asking you to download anything or to send us personal information, such as your password or bank account information. If you ever receive an email like this, delete it immediately. Orkut is a free service, and it will remain safe with your help.

Avoid posting sensitive personal data or embarrassing information

Keep email addresses, pictures and other personal data in private places. Don't forget that millions of people can view your orkut profile or public messages you send around. Don't post anything you wouldn't want everyone to know about you, like your phone number or home address. Instead, share fun information like your favorite vacation spot or the best movie you've ever seen.
Don't post anything about yourself that might embarrass you later. Only post info and photos on your profile that you wouldn't mind your boss, future employer or parents seeing.

Don't trust everyone

People aren't always who they say they are. Be cautious when adding strangers to your friends list. Orkut is a great place to make new friends, but be careful about information you share with someone you've never met in person. If you do decide to meet someone outside of orkut, bring a trusted adult with you.

Restrict access to your content

Don't forget that you can use different privacy features to restrict who's allowed to see or comment on your content.

Sign out when you're done

Don't forget to click the sign out link at the top of the page when you're done using orkut. If you just close your web browser without signing out of orkut, others may be able to access your account when reopening the browser.

Report any abuse issue to us

Inappropriate content won't be tolerated. Help keep orkut beautiful by reporting content that violates our Content Policy or Terms of Service. To do so, simply click actions on the top of a page, and select report abuse from the drop-down menu.

Keep your orkut and Google Account safe

Finally, we also recommend that you follow our general tips to keep your Google Account and computer safe, available at www.google.com/help/security