Criminal Justice Online Degree

You don’t have to live in a big mansion or have lots of valuable possessions to be a victim of home invasion or related crime. According to a United States Department of Justice report, one out every five homes will experience a break in or invasion. Keep a step ahead of the criminals by getting information directly from the experts in these top 20 home security bloggers.

Top Home Security Bloggers

These professionals have loads of experience in home security and beyond.

1. Schneier On Security This nationally renowned security expert is also an author of a book by the same name. This blog is an excellent stop for the latest in security news and scams. Entries deal with everything from security at home, travel, and beyond.
2. Crime Doctor Chris McGoey has done business at McGoey Security Consulting for the past 24 years in security consulting. Not technically a blog, but Crime Doctor is an excellent stop for the basics in home security. Other related topics include carjacking, gated communities, identity theft, and much more.
3. Home Security Blog This blogger provides both home security tips and information. Categories include computer security, alarms, valuables, and more. One of the more recent entries dealt with the interesting concept of Burglar Bombs.
4. 101 Home Security Blog The site for 101 Home Security contains resources such as home security news, a guide, service directory and a lot of other home security resources. The blog contains a weekly newsletter that updates readers on the latest in headlines. Blog posts contain many useful items such as blinds, pets, and how they relate to home security.
5. Network Security Blog Martin gives the views of one man on security, privacy, and anything else that catches his attention. Posts deal with network security, but individuals interested in privacy rights and keeping their personal information out of third party’s hands will enjoy it. A recent entry showed how even the director of the F.B.I. fell for a scam.

Top Official IT Security Bloggers

Keep the technology areas of your home safe by checking out these security bloggers from many known names.

6. Google Online Security Blog One of the most visited sites on the net, Google has their very own security blog. It contains the latest news and insights on security and safety on the internet. The latest entry is on malware and there are useful recommended links.
7. The Mac Security Blog This blog is published by Intego, the Macintosh security specialist, to provide users with timely, useful information about security issues. Visitors can get information on virus, net, content, and other barriers for their Mac. Entries also include reviews of the latest software.
8. Microsoft Security Response Center Get the latest security updates on Microsoft and Windows software here. It contains the latest news in regards to vulnerability in software, and you can even sign up for instant updates. There is even a link to report problems.
9. Mozilla Security Blog The makers of popular programs such as Firefox and Thunderbird have their very own security blog. Stop by for announcements, security updates, or even just musings. The latest post took a glimpse into the future of browser security.
10. CNET Security Title Not only a good site for online software and reviews, they also post security updates. Recent entries report on Acronis and its security findings. Popular ones are on Windows 7 and Pirate Bay.

Top Professional Home Security Bloggers

Many security providers and professionals offer blogs, and they are listed below.

11. Home Safety Council Their Bottom Line Blog relays information contributed by safety experts to help readers keep up on the latest safety news and trends. Updated weekly, they have home security information specialized for everyone from babies to seniors. You can even view the expert network or take an online tour of a safe home.
12. Do It Yourself Home Security Safe Mart provides a variety of home security products in addition to the blog. It is an excellent choice for the home security enthusiast with a DIY frame of mind. Recent posts include expanding and comparing home security.
13. Protection One Providing both residential and business security, they also have this useful section on how to spot scams. The site also contains the latest in security headlines from alarms to door knocking. There is also a YouTube channel with even more.
14. ADT Learning Center A leading home security provided, their learning center is full of useful information. Choose from safety tips, home security articles, and even ways to reduce false alarms. If you have more questions, you can chat with a representative online.
15. Home Security Store Blog They provide a variety of home security services across the nation and even include free same day shipping. Their blog is full of useful entries on surveillance cameras, security monitoring, and much more. Visitors can also browse by home security devices such as fire alarm systems and all sorts of alarms.

Top Specialty Home Security Bloggers

Get everything from a review on a particular gadget to how to stop I.D. theft with these security blogs.

16. Home Security Gadget & Reviews Stop here for a look at the latest and greatest – and even a few oldies – in gadgets, systems, books, and products available in the home security market. Categories include burglar alarms, home safety, personal security, and more. A recent post examined the new wireless Child Tracker gadget.
17. Alarm System Reviews Another reviewing site, this one focuses almost entirely on home security alarms. Top security providers such as Protection One and Brinks are included in reviews. The blog is also full of information on device types and crime prevention.
18. Id Theft Secrets Blog Stop here for quick tips to aid busy consumers in protecting credit and personal information from identity theft fraud. Regularly updated entries include all sorts of identity theft scams. Be sure to stop by the popular section to read articles on cosmetic surgery powered by identity theft and how thieves use texting to get your information.
19. U Do It Alarms Convinced on getting an alarm for your home? Then stop here to see how to install it yourself and save big. You can get information on alarm kits, cameras, and even how to videos.
20. Kevin Beaver’s Security Blog Kevin is an independent information security consultant, expert witness, keynote speaker, and author with 21 years of experience. Although he is a security expert, posts can vary from IT security to basic inspirational messages. One of his more enticing entries was how cell phones may be used in future crimes.

Although there is loads of useful information from these top 20 home security bloggers, it is usually a good idea to get a professional consultation if you are worried about home break ins or invasions. Many security providers even offer free consultation and tons of introductory offers.

According to the FBI, a house, apartment, or condominium is burglarized once every 15 seconds. This results in thousands per hour and untold millions in stolen goods, not to mention the rise in insurance premiums. Don’t be part of the statistics by following these top ten DIY cheap and easy ways to protect your home.

DIY Cheap and Easy Ways to Protect Your Doors

According to a study by the California Crime Technological Research Foundation, the most common ways burglars use to break into homes involve doors. Use the below for inexpensive and simple ways to strengthen them.

1. Replace Locks: Unless you are the first owner, chances are the keys to your home are still out there. Old and outdated locks are also another good reason to replace. State Farm recommends an ANSI Grade 1 lock, the more pins, the better. Be sure to address all entry doors. All you need to install them is a screwdriver.

2. New Strike Plates: Because most strike plates come with holes for two screws, they are easier to break into. Try finding a strike plate that has four holes for screws, making it twice as hard to kick down or pry open. Whether upgrading to four screws or staying with two, be sure to use wood screws that are a minimum of two inches in length.

3. Upgraded Door Hinges: If any of your entry doors swings outward, a burglar may be able to enter your home by simply removing the pins from your door hinges. Don’t tear your hair out over replacing the entire door and frame just yet, there are cheap and easy DIY options. Try getting a hinge with non-removable or fast-riveted pins or even a safety stud.

 Low Tech DIY Cheap and Easy Ways to Protect Your Home

You don’t have to be computer or hardware savvy to utilize the below ways to protect your home.

4. Neighborhood Watch: Because if the whole neighborhood is watching, it will be like your home is never empty. USA On Watch can help you find one in your city or help you start your own. You can also visit National Neighborhood Watch Institute for supplies, handbooks, decals, and more.

5. Alarm Decal or Sticker: Use these decals, stickers, and signs to let criminals know your home is protected by an alarm system or camera, even if it is not. This online store sells a variety of impress security signs and can even customize them. If you prefer a more authentic one, contact the security provider of your choice to purchase your decal directly from them.

6. Lock the doors and windows! The most common ways burglars enter into homes, it happens more than you think. Many of these criminals will even enter an unlocked home if there are people inside. Still have a hard time remembering? Then read this story to remind yourself why.

 High Tech DIY Cheap and Easy Ways to Protect Your Home

Although some tech is required, by no means is a doctorate in science needed to follow these higher tech ways to protect your home.

7. Light It!: Because criminals like to work in the dark, nothing stops them in their tracks light a security light. Whether security or motion detecting, these lights are easy to install, even if you don’t have any experience. This article on eHow gives detailed instructions on how to install security lighting and even offers related videos.

8. Use That PC Camera: Follow the instructions on this site to turn your PC web camera into a motion detection and recording security camera. You only need a PC (Mac instructions coming soon), web camera, and Dorgem. There are even advanced options and a how-to on working with multiple cameras.

9. DIY Home Alarm:Install yourself and customize yourself to protect your home cheaply and easily. You don’t need a monitoring service for the alarm to go off when a door is opened or window is broken. In addition, criminals won’t know if the alarm is hooked up and neighbors who hear it are likely to phone for help. UDoItAlarms sells a variety of DIY home security products and even has how-to videos.

10. A Real Home Alarm: Competitively priced for installation and surveillance, many security systems can actually give you a break on your home owner’s insurance. This site has a beginner’s guide to home security, explanations on common security devices, and even a Just For Fun section. Be sure to check out the Review tab for reports on security providers such as Brinks and Protection One before purchasing.

 Although break-ins can be scary, they are one of the most preventable of crimes. Even though nothing is guaranteed, you are far less likely to become a victim after doing all of these top ten DIY cheap and easy ways to protect your home.

It’s been a while since I started using notebook computers; I made the switch around 4 years ago, when the first dual core systems were being introduced. Back then, a RAM of 1GB was something to be impressed by. But today, it’s laughable. The changes and advances that are taking place in the world of technology are rapid and unrelenting – they sometimes overpower us with the speed at which they happen, and this is why we find it hard to make a decision when it comes to buying a gadget.

Laptops are no longer the luxury item that they were a few years ago; in fact, if you work with a computer or even use one regularly, you’re better off with a mobile notebook than a fixed desktop. And that begs the question of how to go about choosing not just the best there is, but also the one that is right for your needs. The factors to consider are:

• Budget: If you have oodles of money to spend, then this is obviously not a limiting factor, but then, if you’re among the majority like me, then you must have a figure in mind that you’re not going to go above. You must shop through comparison – check out the features you are getting for different prices at different brands and the difference in prices at different stores. Thanks to the advantages of online shopping, you are no longer bound by geographical constraints.
• Brand: For some people, this is the only thing worth considering; for others though, it’s a waste of good money when you’re spending it on just a name. Branding is often associated with quality, although it need not be always true. Some people prefer to choose value for money over the value of a logo while others prefer to go with proven status symbols rather than pinch pennies for something as important as a laptop. It’s up to you to choose your poison wisely, after reading up on reviews and checking out the brand value.
• Battery: For me, the longer a battery lasts, the more tempted I am to buy the laptop in question. If you’re used to working mostly on the go (as opposed to using it at home), then you must choose a notebook with a 9-cell battery. The weight does increase by a few grams, but you’re able to work without plugging in for longer periods of time, up to five hours at a stretch or even more when the battery and system are new.
• Burden: Again, if you’re toting around the system more often than not, you must be willing to pay a little more for a lighter laptop. You must compromise on the screen size too – larger screens are optimal for desktops, not notebooks that you must be able to carry around without feeling the burden.
• Business: Although I’ve listed this last, it’s probably the first thing you must look for – the configuration that comprises the heart of the computer -memory capacity (RAM and HDD), processor speed, chip set and inbuilt features like web camera, microphone, speakers, wireless access, DVD writer and other accessories. Decide on what you need rather than the highest configurations that exist, and then choose the brand that fits your budget with this configuration.

The key to finding the notebook that’s just right for you is to look around for the best deals for the configuration that you need.

There’s no doubting the fact that the Internet has made life so much easier for all of us – we’re always connected to people in any part of the world, information is accessible at the click of a button, and we’re able to do so much more from the comfort of our homes. One sphere that has really benefited by the Internet is distance education – lessons that were earlier sent through regular mail services and Fed Ex packages are now zipping across with speed through the worldwide network of the Web. There is no wait, no delays, and most important of all, no bulky parcels and books that waste paper.

But, in spite of all these advantages that the Internet offers, there is a seamier side to it that people who have used it for a while and know most of its nooks and corners are aware of. The worst of this aspect is that it provides a cloak of anonymity, one that can be misused by people who are out to scam the gullible. And when it comes to education, there are thousands of conmen who are only looking to make a fast buck, little caring about the people they are stealing from and their dreams of an education that is supposed to further their knowledge and their careers.

The problem with distance education that is mediated through the Internet is that it is hard to verify accreditation, that is, the viability of the course you are paying for. With international boundaries disappearing into thin air on the Internet, you are now able to study in China from the comfort of your home in Little Rock, Arkansas. But, how do you know you can trust the school that’s offering you a degree? You cannot go all the way to China to check it out; you are not sure of the phone numbers and mail id that are provided as references; you don’t know the qualities and credentials of the teachers who are going to be handling your lessons; you don’t know if your lessons and assignments will be sent to you according to a schedule; and most of all, you’re not sure if the degree you earn will be accepted and valid when you’re looking for a job in the USA.

Another kind of accreditation issue relates to the students and how straightforward they are. It’s easy to cheat when your teacher is thousands of miles away and cannot see what you’re up to.

The reason people choose to study through the Internet is that it is often much cheaper than getting enrolled in regular schools. But, when you’re not sure if it’s accredited, and even if it is, if you cannot trust the agency that accredits the school and degree, it’s just a waste of time, effort and money.