This week’s mailbag is all about security — from the simplest thing you can do to safeguard your online privacy to some of the best self-defense weapons.
Plus, six expert tips to ensure your bike won’t get stolen — even when you travel with it.
Send any security questions you have to SPYfeedback@LFB.org to be answered in a future edition of the Weekly Drop.
Let’s get started.
Recently, I heard of Pineapples, which can fit in a backpack (or smaller ones that fit in pockets) and essentially hijack Wi-Fi signals. If someone in a public location like Panera has one of these and a patron connects to the Panera Wi-Fi, they would unknowingly connect to the Pineapple, where the culprit could hack the patron’s info. Does TunnelBear block this capability?
— Mary H.
Pineapples are typically small devices that connect to a hacker’s computer via USB. They act as a middleman between your computer and the internet to intercept your web traffic. For only $99, virtually anyone can purchase a Wi-Fi Pineapple.
The good thing is a VPN (virtual private network) like TunnelBear will protect your information from being stolen. If you are connected to a hijacked Wi-Fi connection, your information will still pass through the Pineapple device. However, your data will be encrypted by the VPN, which keeps it safe.
How do I put a VPN on my smartphone? How do I use it?
— Marilyn M.
All you have to do is download the VPN from the app store on your phone. In other words, simply go to the app store and search for “VPN.” There are many reputable companies that offer a downloadable version for your smartphone. Choose the one you want and click “Get” or “Install.”
Once you download the VPN, you will be prompted to log in. Then you can use it whenever you connect to the internet on your phone.
The VPN I use is called TunnelBear. There is a mobile version available in the app store for both iPhone and Android. I know TunnelBear was recently acquired by McAfee. However, there has not been any change to their policies. The company does not collect user data or track browsing.
Click here to get a free seven-day trial and try it out for yourself.
I am a former DOD contractor, search-and-rescue member, prepper and survivalist living in remote Alaska. I believe in a knife that will not break, crack or shatter… Do you have any recommendations?
— Arnold D.
It’s difficult to find a quality knife on the retail market. I suggest finding a custom knife-maker and telling them exactly what you want. (Just know that a custom knife is not cheap.)
The fact is I spent years looking for a knife that would meet my survival needs. In the end, I paid a custom knife-maker to produce a knife to my exact specifications. I call it the NOC Knife — and I have personally tested it under a variety of extreme circumstances.
Click here to take advantage of my legwork and get a NOC Knife of your own.
How is the tactical pen used?
— Dave M.
The tactical pen is one of my favorite self-defense tools. Not only can you use it to strike an attacker (by holding the pen in an ice pick grip), but it can also be used as a glass-breaking device in the event of an emergency.
In addition, the tactical pen can still be used as a regular writing pen. Plus, you can carry it into secure areas where other weapons would be confiscated. For example, I regularly fly with my tactical pen. I’ve also taken it into courthouses and other secure buildings.
Loved your article but what can you do if your Social Security number has already been stolen? (Mine was!)
— Dale H.
Sadly, this is becoming a pervasive issue. Social Security numbers are especially valuable for hackers to steal because they can be used to commit so many different crimes. Unfortunately, this creates a huge mess for the victim and it will take time.
If your Social Security number has been stolen, follow these steps to minimize the damage:
- Go to your local police station and file a police report.
- Also report the theft of your SSN to the Federal Trade Commission.
- Make sure you put a freeze on your credit report (if you haven’t already done so).
- Monitor your credit report and your bank statements every month to make sure there are no fraudulent charges.
- Contact the Social Security Administration about getting a new SSN.
I know it’s a pain, but the more proactive you are, the less you’ll have to worry about later.
Is there a way to put a tracking device on the gun itself?
— Art C.
These days, GPS trackers are so small you can attach them to almost anything using a simple keychain ring. That being said, I don’t recommend attaching a tracker to a firearm. I would never want it to get in the way when I need to use my firearm.
The bottom line is I’m not a big fan of adding too many accessories to guns. I think a GPS tracker would be more of a headache than a help — even on the off chance your gun gets stolen.
Now for some expert advice from one of my readers on how to secure your bike even when you travel. Take it away…
Hey Jason, I agree with your recommendation to store your bike inside at night. As a USA Triathlon coach for most of the last 20 years, I found a set of additional recommendations to prevent bike theft, which we recommend to our clients. My personal experience on several continents supports these:
- Use wheel skewers that require a special tool to release them. Pitlock and Delta are two of many brands. The standard quick-release skewer can be released in one or two seconds and the bike wheel simply removed. Ditto for quick-release seat posts. Obviously, do not leave the special skewer release tool with your bike
- The same type of skewer is available for your seat post. Some companies sell a package of three for wheels and seat post.
- Case-hardened chain locks are available from companies like Abus. They cannot be cut with a bolt cutter, only a welding torch. When locking your bike like this, pass the chain through the rear triangle, around or through a secure fixture and then through the front wheel. Thus, both wheels and the frame are secured.
- Remove flashy, bright insignia and labels from your bike and wheels, especially if it is a higher-end product. My Ti travel bike is just plain grey sandblasted metal with matte-black wheels. The point is to have nothing calling attention that says “Rich man’s bike!” Our new custom touring bikes are label-free… “Just another bike.”
- When touring, leave the dirt on your bike except on critical parts like the chain and gears. Avoid cleaning the frame until you head home.
- When staying in hostels, inns, B&Bs, etc., talk to the owner. They often have secure spaces and will usually help you secure your bike when you are not riding.
— Allen D.
Thanks for the recommendations, Allen. Obviously, you have extensive experience in this field and know how to keep your bike safe.
Stay safe,
Jason Hanson
