Criminal justice careers appeal to nearly every person who watches crime shows: Law & Order, CSI, even movies such as the Bone Collector.  These movies and TV shows romanticize criminal justice careers and almost belittle the amount of work which actually goes into this type of job.  However, criminal justice degrees remain a popular major in undergraduate institutions solely because they offer students the flexibility to choose within a wide array of future careers.  Some are more popular than others, but the top careers are listed below. 

Police Officer
One of the more prominent positions in the criminal justice field is that of a law enforcement officer.  While it is not pertinent to get a criminal justice degree in order to become a police officer, it helps you better understand the law and the reasoning behind it.  Larger cities typically require a criminal justice degree, while small towns only require a high school diploma.  Criminal justice degrees are also attractive on resumes when you are enlisted into the police academy.  Criminal justice classes additionally help focus students’ skills on judgment, decision-making, and a background in weaponry.  There will always be a need of law enforcement in any civilized society, which means this career will be stable for years to come although not for the faint of heart.

Detective
Detectives are next on the tier of law enforcement although they typically require a more advanced degree than most police officers.  Detective work is more analytical and therefore a background in criminal justice or related fields helps many students hone in on this special qualification.  Detective work has also been romanticized by the many movies and characters that have pervaded through history (Sherlock Holmes); however, many detectives will tell you that real life is far from cinematic and typically requires following many leads with little to show for it. Detective work is not for everyone, but contributes to the upholding of the law and sometimes can prove to help solve a crime that threatens the well-being of society.

Criminal Investigator
Criminal investigators are also in the realm of law enforcement, although they go a step further and present evidence to the prosecution and help prepare pre-trial paperwork.  In this sense, criminal investigators seem more closely related to the judicial process than to law enforcement, but it becomes obvious that the two realms intermingle on many occasions.  Criminal justice degrees help promote this type of connection and introduce students to the many forms law enforcement can take.

Specialists (fingerprinting, arson, etc.)
The many forms of specialists that exist within the criminal justice system are vital to solving crimes and preventing future felonies.  Fingerprint specialists focus their sole career on finding remnants of fingerprints on the crime scene and applying them to the national database.  While this may be disappointing work on many occasions, this has proven to be an important part of the criminal justice system.  Additionally, arson specialists help determine what the true cause of a fire is, either releasing innocent people from jail or exonerating the guilty. 

Legal Assistant
Finally, criminal justice degrees have been found to lead to careers within the legal industry, such as legal assistants and other clerkship positions.  Legal assistants are the right hand person to many prestigious attorneys and therefore require a basic understanding of the law.  Criminal justice degrees prepare students specifically for this type of broad spectrum of careers and therefore introduce students to knowledge they need for this type of job. 

The web can be a tricky and dangerous place to navigate, especially if you’re unprepared. However, you can better protect yourself by taking necessary steps to make your computer more secure. Here, we’ll discuss 100 tips, tools, and resources that can help you build a more secure PC.

Tips

Follow these tips, and your PC will be well on its way to locked down.

1. Use a password: Although they may be easily bypassed, be sure to at least use a password for your PC.
2. Disable boot devices: Someone with physical access to your computer and a freely available custom boot CD can access your PC without even opening Windows.
3. Use an alternative browser: Ditch Internet Explorer for Firefox or Opera, or at least tighten IE’s security settings.
4. Eliminate your data: Don’t keep supersensitive information on your PC or laptop-put it on a CD or file server, but take it off of your hard drive.
5. Disable file sharing: Limit your file exposure by disabling file sharing on your hard drives.
6. Protect your administrator account with a password: Make sure to always protect your administrator account.
7. Use a non-obvious laptop bag: Avoid using a bag that advertises that you’re carrying a laptop.
8. Change your password often: Keep your password fresh by changing it often.
9. Back up your files: Save your data with backup systems and utilities.
10. Use a strong email client: Make use of an email client that offers your PC a level of security.
11. Use biometrics: Use a biometric device like a fingerprint reader.
12. Use a screen guard: Keep your information private with a screen protector that hides your screen from snoops.
13. Scan email attachments: Before opening email attachments, be sure to run them through a scanner first.
14. Use email filters: Set up filters in your email to make sure that only safe email reaches your inbox.
15. Password protect your BIOS: Prevent others from changing your BIOS settings by setting up an administrator password.
16. Don’t fall for hoaxes: Be careful of bogus alerts, emails, and more.
17. Never leave your laptop in the car: A laptop turns your car into a sitting duck, and extreme heat can damage it anyway.
18. Use Linux or Mac OS X: Although Windows, Linux, and Mac all offer about the same security, Windows is more frequently targeted.
19. Use a variety of different passwords: Make sure you’re not using the same password for all of your sites and programs.
20. Use a rescue disk: Just in case, make sure you have a book or rescue disk to bring things back to normal.
21. Use an antivirus software: Use antivirus software and keep it up to date for good protection.
22. Use an asset tag: With a highly visible tag, your laptop is deterred from thieves and can be identified easily.
23. Scan executable files: Make sure you scan executable files before opening them.
24. Secure your network: Make sure you’re not keeping your network open-set it up with a password.
25. Test for flaws: Even if you think you’re locked down, you may still have some holes, so use a security scanner to make absolutely sure.
26. Use a strong password: Avoid dictionary words, names, and dates, and use numbers, special characters, and uppercase/lowercase letters.
27. Scan disks before opening them: If you receive a CD or floppy disk, be sure to scan them before opening.
28. Watch out for your SSID: Tell your wireless access router to avoid broadcasting its SSID, and change your SSID from the default.
29. Physically lock your laptop: Help prevent your laptop from walking away by using a cable lock, but know that it won’t keep all thieves away.
30. Password-protect Outlook: Make sure you put a password on your inbox, as well as your Outlook identities.
31. Log off: When you step away from your computer, be sure to log off of your identity.
32. Use a firewall: If you connect to the internet, you need to be using a firewall to be protected from network attacks and rogue programs.
33. Install tracking software: With tracking software, you can be alerted whenever your stolen laptop gets connected to the internet.
34. Watch out for spyware: Keep the snoops at bay by regularly scanning for spyware and adware.
35. Automatically update important software: Minimize application security flaws by always staying up to date on updates and patches.
36. Encrypt your files: Make it hard for your files and information to be stolen by encrypting them.

Tools

With the help of these tools, you can get your PC more secure.

37. Spybot: With the help of Spybot, you can keep spyware and other nasties at bay.
38. Ad-aware: Keep your computer safe from adware by periodically using LavaSoft’s Ad-Aware.
39. PC Security: Lock down your system with explorer control, file and folder locks, program locks, intruder detection, and more.
40. OSSIM: In OSSIM, you’ll find a number of different open source security tools.
41. Asset Labels: Mark your property and protect it with an asset label or security tag.
42. Perfect Passwords: Here you’ll get an ultra high security password generator.
43. Firewall Test: Make sure you’re not open to attack by testing the quality of your firewall.
44. Lockdown: This tool will monitor your computer and sound an alarm if someone tries to access your system.
45. RoboForm: RoboForm is a password manager that will help you keep your passwords in check.
46. ProShield: Use ProShield, and you’ll have your system scanned for malware and up to date software.
47. Antispam: Antispam offers an easy way to fight spam.
48. Trust-No-Exe: Set up a whitelist and blacklist of trusted and non-trusted executable files for your PC with this tool.
49. Untangle: Through Untangle, you’ll get spam, virus, and spyware protection, plus a firewall and web filtering.
50. Hardened Linux: With this Linux distribution, you’ll get excellent security.
51. Simpliciti Locked Browser: If you need to restrict employees, children, or others from visiting non-secure sites, try Simpliciti Locked Browser.
52. Snort: Snort offers effective intrusion detection.
53. Lockdown Plus PC: Lockdown Plus PC offers a network based desktop security solution for public access computers.
54. eBox Platform: This network management framework will help you filter content, use a firewall, proxy, and more.
55. Network Security Toolkit: In this toolkit, you’ll get a number of different open source apps for security.
56. TrueCrypt: Get strong encryption for free with TrueCrypt.
57. Metasploit: With Metasploit, you can test out your system like a hacker might.
58. Anonymous Surfing & Privacy Check: Use this test to find out how anonymous your surfing is.
59. Kismet: With Kismet, you’ll get wireless network detection and packet sniffing. sudo: sudo allows you to selectively control which programs are allowed to run on your PC.
60. Spam Assassin: This spam tool will keep your email safe from spam.
61. EXE Lockdown: Use EXE Lockdown to protect yourself against the installation of unauthorized applications.
62. AWStats: With AWStats, you can monitor attacks on your server.
63. Spamato: Spamato will help keep spam out of your popular email client.
64. Bastille Linux: Use this tool to get a custom lockdown solution for your PC.
65. Honeytrap: Honeytrap offers advanced warning about attacks.
66. Thunderbird: Thunderbird offers lots of tools for keeping spam and viruses out of your inbox.

Blogs & Books

Get ongoing updates about security threats and solutions from these blogs.

68. IT Security: Check out this site to learn all about securing your PC and more.
69. BlogInfoSec: Here you’ll find an information security magazine in blog format.
70. Schneier on Security: This blog covers security and security technology.
71. Security Now!: This audio podcast features weekly security information from Steve Gibson and Leo Laporte.
72. Security Fix: Brian Krebs discusses computer and Internet security.
73. TaoSecurity: Richard Bejtlich’s blog covers digital security, forensics, and more.
74. Windows Lockdown!: Your XP And Vista Guide Against Hacks, Attacks, and Other Internet Mayhem: Here you’ll find an absolute beginner’s guide to keeping your Windows PC locked down.
75. No Tricks: Dr. Luke O’Connor’s blog offers information on risk, security, and IT technology.
76. My PC Security Blog: Follow this blog to get a new computer security tip every day.
77. The Ethical Hacker Network: Learn about security from ethical hackers in this network.
78. Netgear ProSecure Security Blog: Check out this blog to find out about the latest malware, viruses, and more.
79. Mind Streams of Information Security Knowledge: Read Dancho Danchev’s blog to find independent open source intelligence for security threats.
80. elamb: elamb’s security blog offers up to date information on threats to your PC.
81. Network Security Blog: Here you’ll find news about security and privacy.
82. McAfee Avert Labs Blog: Learn about cutting edge security research as it happens through McAfee’s blog.

Guides

These guides will teach you various ways to protect your PC.

83. Home Computer Security: This guide from CERT has a wealth of useful information.
84. Lock Down Your PC: PC World offers this guide with 29 steps to good PC security.
85. Ten Password Commandments: Follow these commandments to make sure your passwords are protecting you as much as possible.
86. 5 Steps to Secure Windows XP Home Edition: Use these 5 steps, and you’ll get a more secure home computer.
87. Lock Down Your Laptop: Learn about products and tips for PC security in this guide.
88. 10 Easy Ways to Lock Down Your Computer: Learn about user passwords, authentication, anonymous access, and more.
89. Advice to Linux Users: Lock Down Your PC: Find out how to lock down your Linux PC with these tips.
90. Five simple PC security tips: Here you’ll find a simple guide to PC security.
91. The Ten Commandments of PC Security: Follow these rules to avoid viruses, worms, and more.
92. The Twenty Minute Guide to PC Security: 20 Tips to Secure Your Box: Get a simple tutorial in PC security from this guide.
93. Cyber-Security: Tips for Safe Computing: Follow these instructions to help reduce the threat of running into security problems online.
94. How to lock down the computer via a shortcut: Follow this guide and you’ll learn how to create a computer lockdown shortcut.
95. FAQ: Locking Down Your Computer: This guide from the University of Utah offers practical advice for PC security.
96. Computer Security 101: Get the basics of computer security through this guide.
97. Lock Down Your PC!: This guide offers practical tips for making your computer more secure.
98. Lockdown Your Laptop: Follow this guide to learn how to keep your laptop safer.
99. Lock Down the Data on Your Portable Drives: Follow this guide, and you’ll find out how to get your laptop, portable disks, and more supersecure.
100. Lock Down Your PC: Here you’ll find answers to your network and internet security questions.

 Criminal justice degrees offer students a wide range of options in regards to their future.  They can choose to enter law enforcement and see criminal justice at work first-hand, or even delve into the legal/judiciary aspect of it all.  However, most students will agree that the more fulfilling jobs center on upholding the law and prosecuting wrongdoers.   These are three of the most popular criminal justice jobs that students of criminal justice aspire to earn. 

Becoming a police officer does not necessarily take a criminal justice degree, unless you want to become an officer in one of the larger cities or metropolitans.  However, the police force is one of the most intense forms of criminal justice jobs because it directly introduces you to the seedy underbelly of society.  Criminal justice jobs are not about shelter from the dark side of society, but rather force you right into the center of it all.  Therefore, at least an introductory course in criminal justice can help prepare you for the job that may await you upon graduation.  If you simply throw yourself into police work, the results could be devastating and you may experience a type of culture-shock.  Criminal justice jobs involve dealing with many people who have a disregard for the normalcies of civilized society and instead insist on breaking many of the most fundamental human laws. 

A career in the FBI may also open up for many students of criminal justice, although this career is not degree-specific.  This is one of the most heightened forms of a criminal justice job and allows employees to delve even deeper into criminal justice.  Most FBI careers are not easy to come by, but they introduce you to one of the peak forms of criminal justice jobs.  FBI agents must undergo a vast spectrum of medical and psychological tests before they are admitted into the program, although previous work and education experience should prepare applicants for the career they will face.  FBI agents are among the most respected of law enforcement agents and therefore a background in law enforcement usually helps applicant chances. 

Finally, another popular criminal justice job is that of DEA agent.  The specialties that go into this type of work deal directly with criminal justice, although in a more specified area.  The drug industry has boomed in the past decades, causing a greater need for this type of enforcement.  DEA agents are involved in the same type of work as other law enforcement officers, such as criminal investigations and tracking dangerous criminals, although they simply operate in a much smaller spectrum.  DEA agents are respected within the field because they are in charge of combating some of the most dangerous criminals of modern society: the drug wars that are going on in border towns are living proof that we need such criminal justice jobs in the country. 

Environmental violations, toxic torts, and more can be quite interesting and informative, and you can read all about them in various environmental law blogs. You can find environmental law blogs about news, developments, education, and more. Read on, and you’ll find 50 of the best blogs about environmental law.

General

Take a general look at environmental law through these blogs.

1. Environmental Law Resource: Follow this blog to get environmental law updates, rulings, and information around the world.
2. Biolaw: Read about law and the life sciences from BioLaw.
3. Environmental Legal Blogs: Learn about developments in environmental law from this blog.
4. Law and the Environment: Seth Jaffe’s blog is a good source for learning about current events in environmental law.
5. Green Counsel: On this blog, you’ll learn about using the law to promote renewable energy, environmental business, and sustainability.
6. Environmental Crimes Blog: Check out Environmental Crimes to learn about some of the acts being committed against the environment.
7. The Brockovich Report: Erin Brockovich works to protect the public from dangerous substances that cause health problems.
8. Environmental Toxic Torts: This blog offers a look into legal developments and defense strategy in environmental toxic torts.
9. Ear To The Ground: Thomas Clarke blogs about the law and science of the environment and toxic torts.
10. Municipal, Planning & Environmental Law Group Blog: This blog offers a look at how municipal law and planning affects the environment.
11. Law and the Environment: In this blog, you’ll find commentary and insights into the issues of law and the environment.

News

You can stay up to date on environmental news developments with these blogs.

12. Environmental & Energy Law Monitor: This blog covers news and updates on environmental and energy law.
13. Becker’s Environmental Law Update: Find news about environmental law from this blog.
14. eNewsUSA: Visit this blog to find environmental news and information for environmental attorneys and consultants.
15. Sharks in the Water: Sharks in the Water is all about global environmental and IP matters.

Educational

These bloggers are involved in environmental law education.

16. Environmental Law Prof Blog: Susan Smith is a professor of law at Williamette University College of Law.
17. American College of Environmental Lawyers: This group of environmental lawyers offers insight into environmental law, ethics, and administration of justice.
18. Legal Planet: Legal Planet is an environmental law and policy blog that’s a joint effort between Berkeley Law and UCLA Law.

Climate Change

Find out about law and climate change from these blogs.

19. Envrionmental Law & Climate Change: This Lexis Nexis blog offers a look into our changing climate.
20. Sustainability Law Blog: Tonkton Torp Attorneys write this blog about climate change, sustainable business, practices, and more.
21. Climate Change Attorney: This blog is written by climate change attorneys Silverberg Zalantis.
22. Climate Change Insights: Climate Change Insights offers a forum for critical analyses of climate law and policy.
23. Global Climate Law Blog: Here you’ll find discussion on issues about global climate law and litigation.
24. Climate Change & Carbon Management Blog: Check out this blog to get insight into climate change and carbon management in the law.
25. Warming Law: This blog works to change the climate in the courts.
26. Environmental Law Diary: In this blog, you’ll learn about environmental law with a focus on the climate.
27. ClimateIntel: This blog offers insight on climate change, including international law, intellectual property, and more.

Animals

See how the law protects animals in these blogs.

28. ESA Blawg: This blog takes a look at the Endangered Species Act.
29. Animal Rights: The Abolitionist Approach: Check out this blog to learn about animal rights and the law.
30. Animal Law Blog: Follow animal law news, litigation, and more from this blog.

Local

These blogs focus on environmental law at the local level.

31. Envirosphere: Envirosphere shares information about environmental law in New York State.
32. Oikos: David Jeffrey’s blog is based in Australia, focusing on connections between the environment and the economy.
33. Saxe Environmental Law Mews: Dianne Saxe’s blog features environmental law updates from Toronto, Ontario.
34. PA Brownfields Environmental Law: Visit this blog, and you’ll get a look into brownfields in Pennsylvania and beyond.
35. Environmental Law in Washington State: Get an overview of the issues in Washington environmental law from this blog.
36. Ohio Environmental Law Blog: Check out this blog to find information and commentary about environmental law in Ohio and beyond.

Energy

See the future of energy law in these blogs.

37. Renewable Energy Law Blog: Read about the law, science, and policy of renewable energy on this blog.
38. Energy Legal Blog: Energy Legal Blog discusses national and regional energy issues.
39. Renewable + Law: This blog covers climate policy, renewable energy, and sustainability.
40. The Energy Law Blog: In this blog, you’ll find information about oil and gas exploration, development, and more in the Gulf Coast.
41. Offshore Renewable Energy Law Blog: Follow this blog, and you’ll learn about the news and regulation of wave, tidal, and offshore wind energy.

Building

These blogs focus on the laws involving building developments.

42. Green Building Law Blog: Shari Shapiro’s blog is all about green building law.
43. Construction Law Musings: On this blog, you’ll find information about construction law in Virginia.
44. Green Building & Environmental Trends: Visit Rich Cartlidge’s blog to learn about trends in the fields of green building, construction and environmental law.
45. Construction Law Blog: This blog offers insights on legal issues concerning the construction industry.
46. Green Building Law Update: On this blog, you’ll learn about trends, legal developments, codes, and regulations in green building from a construction attorney.

Government

Check out these blogs to see the latest in government environmental law.

47. Greenversations: Here you’ll find the official blog of the US Environmental Protection Agency.
48. EnviroWonk: Find news and analysis of politics from an environmental perspective on this blog.
49. Green Car Congress: This blog is all about the politics surrounding sustainable mobility.
50. Hill Heat: Learn all about science policy legislation action from Hill Heat.

In today’s world of Internet interconnectedness, guarding your privacy can become a full-time job. Whether you are worried about your personal privacy, government interference, national security, identity theft, or the laws and policies surrounding privacy, these blogs will help you stay vigilant against any breaches in your privacy rights.

Privacy, Communications, and Censorship Blogs

These blogs cover a wide range of privacy issues including censorship, surveillance, online privacy, communications, and more.

1. The Privacy Blog. Anonymity, online privacy, policies, surveillance, and censorship are among the topics featured on this blog.
2. Privacy Blog. Medical record disposal, social networking privacy, and the Supreme Court’s take on privacy are recent posts here.
3. Threat Level. This blog at Wired.com touches on privacy, security, and related topics.
4. Conspicuous Chatter. Get research and opinions on the latest topics from the fields of anonymous and covert communication, traffic analysis, and censorship resistance.
5. Inoperability Streams. These posts include news about telecommunications, communications, and security.
6. Privacy International. This watchdog group posts news pertaining to privacy from all around the world.
7. Privacy Diary. Identity theft, risk management, information security, and more find their place in this blog.
8. TRUSTe Blog. Cybercrime and self policing are among the topics on this blog.

Online Privacy and Security

Guarding your privacy online is not only a good idea, but actually a necessity. Read these blogs to find news and updates from the world of cybersecurity and privacy.

9. MetaSecurity. Topics on this blog often include intelligence, cybersecurity, and virtual worlds.
10. Matt Blaze’s Exhaustive Search. This professor from University of Pennsylvania blogs about security and privacy issues as they relate to science and technology.
11. Freedom to Tinker. Published by Princeton’s Center for Information Technology Policy, this blog examines privacy, Internet security, intellectual property, and much more.
12. SMBlog–Steve Bellovin’s Blog. This professor from Columbia University blogs about Internet Security, privacy, and related issues.
13. Avi Rubin’s Blog. Electronic voting security, computer and network security, and other security issues appear on this blog written by a professor from Johns Hopkins University.
14. CERIAS. The Center for Education and Research in Information Assurance and Security is one of the leaders in research and education on information security. and their blog focuses on these issues.
15. Random Spaf Items. Professor Gene Spafford from Purdue, who also posts on CERIAS, writes about privacy, cybersecurity, cybercrime, and more on his personal blog.
16. 1 Raindrop. Written by security software expert, Gunnar Peterson, the posts on this blog discuss online security and privacy issues.
17. SecurityBuddha.com. Mark Curphey writes about Internet security tools as he has begun to reshape his blog.
18. Security Retentive. This information security engineer blogs about Internet security and privacy issues.
19. Another Set of Teeth. This blog covers privacy, security, and ethics especially pertaining to Internet security.

National Security

These blogs cover national security from the perspective of the government, strategists, and others who are dedicated to keeping you informed about security issues.

20. In Homeland Security. This non-partisan and non-commercial blog is sponsored by the American Military University and delivers news and analysis of issues relating to national security.
21. Stephenson blogs on homeland security 2.0 et al.. Written by the well-known strategist and theorist, W. David Stephenson, this blog touches on technology and civil liberty issues in relation to homeland security.
22. Global Guerrillas. This former USAF pilot and current analyst on warfare and security writes on communities and potential crises.
23. Vital Systems Security. With posts including such topics as community health issues, security, and globalization, this blog brings the latest scientific news as it relates to these issues.
24. Emergency.Blog. This blog focuses on information relating to security issues such as terrorism, emergency service, and cyberwar.
25. Homeland Security Watch. This non-partisan, non-commercial blog provides information about national security events and news.
26. War and Piece. Written by a national security correspondent, this blog provides insight on national security issues and foreign policy.
27. DefenseTech. This blog from Military.com covers a variety of topics that pertain to national security.
28. Evolution of Security. From the Transportation Security Administration, posts here discuss security and technology as they relate to national security.
29. Security Debrief. This blog features news and commentary from several sources that all discuss issues surrounding national security.
30. Home Station. From the Integrative Center for Homeland Security at Texas A&M University, this blog discusses timely issues surrounding homeland security including cybersecurity, terrorism, and more.

Personal Privacy, Security, and Identity

From guarding your identity to keeping your family safe to digital identity issues, these blogs cover personal security and privacy.

31. Privacy and Identity Theft. Get news and learn how to protect yourself with the information here that examines cybercrime, identity theft, and more.
32. Privacy Gourmet. Privacy and social networking, data privacy, privacy resources, and keeping families safe online are some of the subjects covered on this blog.
33. Emergent Chaos. This collaborative blog focuses on privacy, security, liberty, and economics.
34. Schneier on Security. This "security guru" and renowned author blogs about computer security, personal security, and Friday squids.
35. The-New-Internet-Security-Cyberhood-Watch-Blog. This blog focuses on such privacy and security issues such as identity theft, child cybersafety, and cybercrime.
36. Ceci n’est pas un Bob. Learn about issues surrounding security, privacy, identity, and risk at this blog written by Bob Blakley.
37. Identerati. Another blog from an employee of Burton Group, this focuses on identity management and security with a perspective from both business and the individual.
38. IdentityBlog. Kim Cameron writes about digital identity, privacy, and more on his blog.
39. Identity Woman. Social issues surrounding online digital identity are the focus of Kaliya Hamlin’s blog.
40. Adventures of an Eternal Optimist. Digital identity, privacy, and more are the topics discussed here.

Law and Policies

These lawyers and organizations all blog about privacy law and policies.

41. Privacy Law Blog. Security breaches, privacy law issues, and more are the focus of this blog from Proskauer Rose, LLP.
42. Burton Group Identity and Privacy. Burton Group reports news and offers opinions on the state of privacy policy and issues.
43. Privacy and Security Law Blog. Medical records, cybercrime, and other privacy issues get attention on this legal blog.
44. Privacy and Information Security Law Blog. Global privacy law issues, especially as they pertain to the cyberworld, are featured here.
45. Privacy Spot. The law firm of Hughes & Luce, LLP blog about data protection and privacy law.
46. beSpacific. This law and technology blog frequently discusses topics such as government, cybercrime, and the Internet.
47. Think Progress. Advancing progressive ideas and politics are the mission of this blog where you can find topics including privacy, immigration, and security.
48. In General Counsel. This right-leaning legal analyst discusses issues of security, politics, and more from a legal perspective.
49. Gregory S. McNeal. This law professor writes on such topics as counterterrorism, national security, and criminal law.
50. Privacy Law & Policy. Privacy rights, open government, and cybercrime are the topics on this blog.

Careers in criminal justice are largely unrecognized for the respect they deserve by the general public.  As a result, most Americans do not understand the amount of work that goes into criminal justice degrees nor the hardships many encounter within their career.  Deciding on a career in criminal justice may mean that you will not be respected for the contribution you are making to society, but knowing that your career helps preserve the balance of society.

Most careers in criminal justice are comprised of law enforcement (police officers, detectives, government agents) or judicial careers (county clerks, legal assistants).  Most law enforcement careers are known for their lack of respect within the community: police officers are often illustrated as ego-trip careers in which post citizens are unwilling to look beyond.  Contrary to this belief, law enforcement agents play a vital role in securing the peace within most communities. Without such agents, chaos would ensue as criminals would run amuck and drugs would easily be trafficked within borders.  Since we have agents in place to prevent this from happening, modern society can function without any major disruptions aside from those we cannot predict. 

Law enforcement agents perform a vital role in the community, from picking up repeat offenders, to protecting the streets from wrongdoers.  The majority of the American population does not consider this to be that vital of a commitment after having an unfortunate run-in with a law enforcement officer.  Getting pulled over for a traffic citation, however, is vastly different from more serious criminal offenses that officers must endure.  Therefore, most citizens assume that police officers spend all their time pulling people over for the most minute infractions (expired inspection stickers); as a result, this has impacted the popular perspective of most law enforcement officers.  However, when we find that are home is burglarized, what is the first number that we call?  Therefore, the career of a law enforcement agent is almost double-sided, as many people seem to nearly loathe these agents but call on the same officers when they are in need. 

Other careers in criminal justice involve less prominent positions, such as legal assistants or clerks, although they are involved with the same manner of upholding the law.  Legal assistants are part of the criminal justice sector in a different way than law enforcement agents, although they too help prosecute the wrongdoers of society.  Similar to law enforcement agents, legal assistants are often lumped into the same pile as that of lawyers, including the misconception that they are dishonest in their dealings.  However, they play an important part in the criminal justice community in making sure that criminals are justly punished for the wrongs they commit.  While careers in criminal justice are only truly understood by those who are within the field, slowly they are gaining the recognition they deserve. 

Crackberry addict President Barack Obama has had to wait a long time for the return of his mobile device while the NSA creates a customized, uber-secure version that’s appropriate for all the sensitive information that will be stored and transmitted. And even if the rest of us can’t ask the government for help beefing up encryption capabilities on our phones, we can take a cue from the President and take BlackBerry security very seriously. Use this list of tips and tools to make your BlackBerry more like Obama’s.

Hardware

First, you’ll have to start by purchasing the same hardware as the President.

1. BlackBerry 8830: Obama has a BlackBerry 8830, which features a media player, wireless email, built-in GPS, and a long lasting battery.
2. NSA Customization: Chances are, you can’t get your BlackBerry customized by the National Security Agency, but if you really want your BB to be just like Obama’s, you’ll have to find a way.

Apps and Features

Obama probably has to get clearance if he wants to add any extras onto his BlackBerry, but if he could use them, he’d find these productivity enhancers, secure data viewers and other reference tools particularly useful on the go.

3. Vlingo: Vlingo lets you record text messages by speaking into your phone, instead of typing them.
4. MSDict Concise Oxford American Dictionary and Thesaurus: Obama is known for his articulate speaking and expansive vocabulary, maybe because he refers to the Oxford Dictionary on his BlackBerry.
5. BlackBerry Database Viewer: Using this app, you can view and update databases instantly from your BlackBerry.
6. Opera Mini: A secured Opera Mini browser will refresh much faster than other browsers.
7. BlackBerry Enterprise Server: The BES is a popular system that monitors how your device is used, protects data and more.
8. eSpell: Obama can make sure all of his text messages, documents and e-mails are spelled correctly before sending them using eSpell.
9. Bloomberg: Use the BlackBerry version of Bloomberg to get graphs, financial news, economic analysis and more. You know Obama’s keeping up with it, and your BB will make sure you’re updated too.
10. Shazam: Turn your BlackBerry into a workout or in-flight companion with music partner Shazam.
11. Wireless Calendar Synchronization: All BlackBerries in the 8800 series feature Wireless Calendar Synchronization, which lets you RSVP to meetings, submit meeting requests, and manage end-to-end data encryption.
12. Pocket Express: Obama could quickly check the weather, stock quotes and more by using this app on his BlackBerry.
13. Remember The Milk: This to-do list and task manager can be safely and privately used on your BlackBerry, too.
14. Travel Mate for BlackBerry: Organize your vacation or business trip just as securely and exactly as if you were the President. This app features currency converters, country fact sheets, check lists, a travel plan module and more.
15. Agendus for BlackBerry: Agendus safely stores data and syncs up calendars.
16. BlackBerry Organizer: Obama’s phone features the secure Organizer, which includes a calendar, address book, task list, MemoPad and calculator.

Security

Security is the number one priority for the experts working on Obama’s phone. Learn about the security tools and strategies that they’re using and that can work for you too.

17. SecurVoice: Obama’s phone features the SecurVoice software from The Genesis Key, Inc. company. It removes traditional encryption software and installs its own key.
18. No IMs: Obama probably won’t be able to use IM or other chat services on his BlackBerry, as it could leave him too vulnerable to hacking.
19. Restricted e-mail usage: If you want your BB to be just like the President’s, you won’t be able to subscribe to shopping sites, get Evites, or bulk up your contacts list. Only a few security-cleared people even have Obama’s e-mail address.
20. Password Protect: No doubt Obama’s BlackBerry is password protected, a security tip you should remember to use, too.
21. Clear memory: Here you’ll learn how to clear memory off your BlackBerry for maximum privacy.
22. Disable GPS: You may have to disable your GPS capability if you’re worried about hackers, like Obama’s aides are.
23. Don’t get a phone with a camera or video: If anyone with an ulterior motive gets your phone for a split second, he or she could take an incriminating photo or video that could get you in trouble.
24. Understand BlackBerry Code Signing: This tool limits access to third party applications.
25. Check up on your IT administrators: Make sure that BlackBerry IT administrators who have access to your account are using your information responsibly.
26. When you drop it, make sure you find every piece: If you drop your phone and it breaks into several pieces, make sure you collect every single part, just in case you lose a piece that carries confidential information.
27. Check for unwanted add-ons: Take your BlackBerry back into the store to check for any downloads or devices that may have been added without your knowledge.
28. Know the signs of being tapped: Mediocre tapping devices leave clues that give them away. Make sure you know the signs of a bug on your phone.
29. Don’t send PIN to PIN messages: PIN to PIN messages aren’t encrypted like ones sent with BlackBerry Enterprise Server Redirector are.
30. Do background checks on the people you e-mail: Just because you don’t have Obama’s security teams to help you out doesn’t mean you can’t do a simple Google check to make sure the people you share your e-mail address with aren’t psycho.
31. Research anti-theft software: Anti-theft software like Gadget Trak and Get It Back protects your data even if it’s stolen, features an alarm that you can set off remotely, and more.
32. Stay off social media sites: Sites like Facebook are almost as addicting as playing with your BlackBerry, but they’re not secure enough to visit on phones that hold top secret information.

Communication

Remember to protect your network during e-mails and communication on the BlackBerry.

33. Exclusive network: Obama’s BlackBerry can communicate with other choice users who have the same super secure software on their phones, like Michelle Obama.
34. Forget Bluetooth: Bluetooth is susceptible to viruses, and will leave your BlackBerry too vulnerable to hacking.
35. Cut back on e-mail: Due to the Presidential Records Act of 1978 which considers all business-centric communications from the President as public property and subject to subpoenas, Obama is encouraged to cut down on e-mails, which could be sent in the heat of the moment.
36. Track e-mails: Use a special tool like FlexiSPY Light to track and record outgoing and incoming emails, just like Obama’s people do.

Tips

Here you’ll find tips for using your BlackBerry, setting up security systems, and more.

37. Choose the right password: Make sure your passwords for your BlackBerry are so secure that no one will be able to hack into your system.
38. Remove password storage capability: Your BB browser may automatically remember passwords, but it’s safer to type them in each time than store them online.
39. Get a spam filter: Make sure spam is being filtered out of your regular e-mails so that you don’t accidentally grant access to viruses or hackers.
40. Don’t set your BlackBerry on counters or tables: When you’re at a restaurant, don’t set your phone on the table to monitor incoming calls. It’s too easy to forget it when you leave.
41. Don’t pay bills with your BlackBerry: Don’t shop online or pay bills with your BlackBerry, as it leaves your accounts open to hackers.
42. Remember that your phone contains information about others, too: Obama needs to remember that his phone contains personal or sensitive information about his family and professional colleagues, making it that much more important for him to be serious about security.
43. Enter your password as few times as possible: Circumvent password prompts to protect yourself against hackers using these tools.
44. Choose black: Get a plain black BlackBerry, which is less tempting to a potential thief than something shiny or colorful.
45. Keep up with security updates and certifications: Make sure your BlackBerry is equipped with the latest security solutions and isn’t running out-of-date software.
46. Set the timeout option on your email: Set up your BlackBerry so that it automatically times out after a certain period.
47. Monitor your own usage in public: Don’t work on sensitive e-mails or documents on your phone in a public place: you never know who is looking over your shoulder.
48. Always lock your BlackBerry: Prevent curious eyes from hacking into your data or contacts by locking it whenever it’s not in use.
49. Activate your encryption software: Check to make sure your encryption service has been activated. You may have to do it yourself after you purchase your phone.
50. Get a second opinion: Obama has had entire teams devoted to testing his BlackBerry’s security and function, and if you’re worried about hackers or vulnerability, get a second opinion from IT experts.

By Megan Jones

In April, when Somali pirates captured the MV Maersk Alabama and kidnapped the captain of the ship for four days, the news shocked many. While earlier reports of piracy may have made the news, they did not capture the public’s attention in the same way that this incident did. The fact is that piracy is not just a legend from days long past, but is a dangerous trend that is actually on the upswing and for the past few years. Read the following facts to discover what you might not know about modern-day pirates.

1. Weapons used. Many modern pirates have heavy-duty firepower, including automatic weapons, mortars, and rocket-propelled grenades. Pirates are also often equipped with cell phones and other tech gadgets to keep in contact with organizers who feed them information about ships and their locations. Many pirates’ weapons are specialized to their geographic location, with the most dangerous usually being in the South China Sea and Somalia.
2. Geographic occurrences. With the recent news about the pirate capture off Somalia, it may appear to some that modern pirates are isolated to this geographic area. While the political upheaval in Somalia does provide an ideal, lawless hideout for pirates, the fact is pirates are often found in many places around the globe. Some areas most frequented by pirates include the Red Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the waters of Indonesia and Singapore.
3. Financial loss. The estimated annual loss due to piracy worldwide is about $13 to $16 billion. Unfortunately, most carriers decide not to report piracy incidents due to the financial burden. When an incident of piracy is reported, ship owners experience insurance rates that can increase by as much as 30% as well as the daily loss incurred during an investigation that can often run about $1000 a day.
4. Ties to government and organized crime. Many modern pirates have ties to the government and organized crime, such as the pirates in Somalia and the Far East, with some pirates in the South China Sea reportedly working under the protection of the Chinese government. Other pirates take advantage of a lack of government involvement, such as the pirates near Brazil, where there is no Coast Guard or its equivalent.
5. Anchored ships vs. high seas kidnapping. Pirates boarding ships at sea and kidnapping the crew have been making the news but an older report suggests that 72% of pirate attacks occur on anchored ships where the pirates either steal the ships or take cargo and crew members’ belongings. Recent trends show that kidnapping the crew in order to get ransom money is on the rise, as pirates cannot only profit from the ransom but stolen goods as well.
6. High ransom. When kidnapping is involved, ship owners sometimes must pay high ransom prices to help their kidnapped crew. Ransoms average around $120,000. Some owners will hire security organizations to escort their ships, at costs of around $120,000 per trip to avoid the high ransom payments, danger to their crew, and potential loss of the ship and its cargo.
7. Frequency. Piracy is a frequent activity happening much more often than what makes the news. Take a look at the Live Piracy Report and the Live Piracy Map at the ICC Commercial Crime Services and you will see that reported piracy incidents are currently occurring at about 20-30 per month. While not all incidents result in kidnapping or theft, many do.
8. Environmental pirates. Not all pirates use lethal weapons and are seeking riches. Some pirates, such as those in the group Sea Shepherd, are known to ram ships, throw rancid butter on their decks, or even sink ships in an attempt to disrupt their activities. Usually target ships are participating in whaling or fishing that harms other marine wildlife such as dolphins, seals, and sea turtles.
9. Little deterrent. Due to the current legal situation, most pirates who are captured are merely questioned and released. Unfortunately, there are almost no laws against modern pirates. Local laws pertain specifically to citizens and may not apply to pirates, and finding witnesses and translators can be difficult once pirates are detained. Additionally, many countries do not want to take on the expense of imprisoning pirates, so they are often returned to their life of piracy–complete with few deterrents to slow them down.
10. Help from London. London, the world headquarters of shipbroking and insurance, is also likely a hub for intelligence that is sent to Somali pirates. It is thought that at least one of the known pirate groups has "consultants" in London sending information to the pirates that include the layout of the ships, cargo, and routes. With this much information, the pirates have plenty of time and ability to carefully plan their attack so that the ships have little defense.

By Megan Jones

From inauguration day to current outings in DC and around the nation, the limo in which President Obama rides is, by all speculation, the one of the safest vehicles ever made. Obama’s limo is made by Cadillac, a company with a history of providing secure vehicles to United States presidents that began with Woodrow Wilson in 1919 as he was driven down streets of Boston during a WWI victory parade. Since then, the company has served nine other presidents, providing safe, secure transportation. While the official word from the Secret Service is that the specifics of the car cannot be discussed, they do say that the public can rest assured that the, "car’s security and coded communications systems make it the most technologically advanced protection vehicle in the world.” Despite the necessary secrecy, there are several security features that have been around since the car’s debut or are speculated to be part of the vehicle by experts in the field.

1. Windows. The windows on Obama’s limo are reportedly 5 to 6 inches thick, bomb-proof, and can withstand armor-piercing bullets. Compared to previous versions of the presidential limos, this newer model has more window space providing better outward visibility. The driver’s window is the only window that opens, at only 2.75 inches, so the driver can speak with secret service agents outside the vehicle.
2. Doors. The doors, which were seen both in photos of the vehicle leaked prior to Inauguration Day and afterwards on the finished product, are armour-plated and 8 inches thick–three inches thicker than President Bush’s limo doors. These doors are the same weight as a Boeing 757 cabin door. An additional safety feature includes steel overlaps between the seams to protect against bullets entering in the space between the doors and body.
3. Passenger section. The area in which Obama and any of his approved guests ride is a space of both security and luxury. This section generously seats four and includes a glass partition that can only be opened by President Obama as well as a panic button for summoning help. While riding in the limo, Obama can still work and stay connected safely on his fold-away desktop that includes a laptop with secure Wi-Fi capabilities and a satellite phone with a direct line to the Pentagon and the Vice President.
4. Interior: The interior of Obama’s limo is rumored to be completely sealed in case of a chemical attack. Another safety feature that may possibly be included on the car is a lock-safety mechanism that, in case of emergency, seals off the entire car similar to how a bank vault can be locked during a robbery.
5. Driver. Obama’s driver is not just a regular chauffeur, but a CIA agent specially-trained for situations ranging from driving during challenging situations to regular types of mechanical break-downs as well as how to handle any emergency that may come up. The driver also has access to helpful equipment such as a communications system and GPS unit in his compartment. Think you’d have what it takes to be a presidential driver? Find out what President Clinton’s former driver says about his experience working as the official presidential driver.
6. Fuel Tank. The limo’s fuel tank is armour-plated to help repel bullets. As a second line of defense, similar to what race cars use, the fuel tank on Obama’s limo is filled with a special foam that prevents it from exploding even if it sustains a direct hit.
7. Defense equipment. James Bond isn’t the only one who may need a car to provide defense. In case Obama comes under attack while riding in his limo, there are several pieces of defense equipment rumored to be on board. Night-vision cameras, pump-action shotguns, and tear-gas cannons are among some of those weapons speculated to be included. If Obama is injured during an attack while in the car, there are supposedly bottles of the president’s blood in case he needs emergency transfusions. Additionally, the trunk houses an emergency oxygen supply and firefighting equipment.
8. Tires. To protect President Obama from bullets, spike strips, or any other device aimed at disabling the car’s Goodyear tires, the limo is likely equipped with specially designed, Kevlar-reinforced, shred and puncture-resistant tires. If indeed someone or something was able to destroy the tires, the car also has steel rims and a run-flat device so that if the tires are disabled, the car can still drive at high speeds to escape any imminent danger.
9. Chassis. The car, commonly known as Cadillac One, but nicknamed by the Secret Service as The Beast, is thought to be based on a Cadillac DTS when it comes to style, but may be built on a truck chassis in order to support the weight of the car and all its special equipment. There is also speculated to be a reinforced, 5-inch steel plate that runs underneath the car in the event that a bomb is placed there.
10. Body. To fend off anything from bullets to rocks, the body of the car is probably composed of a mixture of hard and soft material that work to halt and dissipate the energy of the projectile so that no matter what type of projectile may be hurled toward the car, the outside protection will not be penetrated. Typical materials used for these types of cars are a combination of dual-hardness steel, aluminum, titanium, and ceramic.

Law school and law firms sponsor their own networking events and aim to connect legal professionals for the sake of recruitment, collaboration and more. But to compete with the top lawyers and graduates, you’ll need to venture out on your own, too. These social sites can help you find jobs, interact with clients and build cases, all online.

Information Gathering

Thanks to social media sites, lawyers can enjoy unique access to people’s records and evidence through Facebook and other sites. This list of social networks are great for information gathering.

1. MySpace: Find incriminating photos and more on MySpace.
2. Facebook: Facebook is a popular site for members to put up photos of partying and other scandalous behavior.
3. Flickr: Find hard evidence through pictures on Flickr accounts.
4. LinkedIn: Confirm professional and social relationships by exploring a client’s LinkedIn profile.
5. Cake Financial: Find out information about someone’s accounts and investments on this site.
6. YouTube: Browse YouTube for videos of your clients or others caught in compromising situations.
7. Meetup: Find out where someone is going to be at a designated time by following them on Meetup, a social site that helps groups organize meetings in real life.
8. Geni: Use this social network for organizing family trees and genealogy records to confirm family ties.
9. OUTeverywhere: OUTeverywhere is a social networking site for gay dating and more.
10. Vimeo: Vimeo is another video sharing site that may prove useful to your research.

Networking and Jobs

Use these social sites for networking and job searching, as well as making friends.

11. Attorneys Online: Here you can take advantage of the Lawyer to Lawyer Referral Service for networking and more.
12. Twitter: Keep in touch with lots of colleagues and friends by sending out one single message to everyone.
13. Ryze: Ryze is a professional networking site that thrives on making business contacts.
14. Law.com: Check out the lawyer blogs and law jobs center on this site for networking purposes.
15. Counsel.net: This network features a chatboard, forums, and more resources for lawyers, law students and other legal professionals.
16. American Bar Associations: ABA members have access to an events calendar, career resources, discussion groups, a member directory, and other benefits through the website.
17. International Lawyers Network: Access contact lists and more for lawyers around the world.
18. Legal OnRamp: This invite-only network provides legal professionals with web services, like blogs, wikis, profiles and more.
19. MyPractice: Catch up on legal news, events and issues through this social network that lets you build your own profile and make connections.
20. LawLink: Join groups, chat on the forums, pose questions and learn about other attorneys in your field and beyond.
21. Law Marketing: This "national business network for the legal industry" features a forum, events calendar, profiles, blogs, notes, videos and more.
22. Avvo: The public uses this directory to find lawyers, so make sure you’re included in the network.

Sharing

Share news stories and collaborate on special social sites to work on your cases and contribute to the industry here.

23. Above the Law: This law news and gossip blog features a community for lawyers and legal professionals who want to discuss jobs, cases and other issues.
24. ESQChat: Here you can connect with other attorneys to share news, blog, ask questions and more.
25. MarkaBoo: Easily bookmark from e-mail, browser and your phone with this social bookmarking site, which also lets you host online study groups, share videos and create your own blog or podcast.
26. Ning: Create a social group online for the people you’re working with on a specific case. You can share information and ideas easily.
27. Memotoo: Organize your case information on this site, where it can be seen by colleagues.
28. Digg: Digg is one of the most popular social bookmarking sites and can be a great place to share news and research.
29. Google Groups: Google Groups is another place for you to set up a private place online to collaborate and share information.
30. Mixx: Lawyers in all areas of expertise, including sports, entertainment, science and health law can share news and stay on top of industry trends here.
31. Uloop: Law students and college students use this site to sell books and more.
32. Justia.com: Find the best law stories and groups online using Justia.com.

Forums

Visit these legal forums to meet others in your profession or share your advice.

33. LawVibe.com: Stay current on the law issues that people around the world are talking about.
34. The Attorneys Forum: Threads here include topics like bankruptcy, accident and injuries, financial law, and more.
35. Court Forum: Ask questions and submit feedback on feeds that deal with cyber law, corporate law, employment law, civil suits and more.
36. FreeAdvice: Build up your reputation and make contacts by giving free advice on this forum.
37. The Law: Access legal tools and network on the law forums.
38. The Frugal Law Student Forums: This popular site also features a forum for law students, where issues like productivity, personal finance and other topics are discussed.

Miscellaneous

From law student networking to more job connections, these social sites are worth checking out.

39. PivotalDiscovery.com: This network features a career portal, videos and more, for "e-discovery and litigation professionals."
40. lawyrs: lawyrs is a small networking group that lets members join groups and find law firms.
41. Advanced Advocates: Law students connect on this social site to find jobs, discuss issues, and more.
42. HubPages: Market your skills by becoming an expert the public turns to when you write articles on HubPages.
43. WSJ Law Blog: The Law Blog on wsj.com is more than just a blog. Readers, legal professionals and others frequently use the site to comment, discuss issues, network and more.
44. TweetLaw: This Twitter service is for legal professionals who want to narrow down their networking opportunities.
45. JDDiversity: This organization is devoted to promoting diversity in the legal community. Use the site to access blogs, participate in discussions, learn about special events, and more.
46. LegalBirds: Find legal professionals on Twitter by first networking on this site.
47. U.S. Law Blog Directory: Quickly find blog posts and discussions relating to various legal topics here.
48. LexTweet: Use this directory and community to find legal professionals on Twitter.
49. LB Network: Share photos, music, videos and your resume on this legal network.
50. Legally Minded: Here, legal professionals join groups, share news, network with other professionals, blog, join discussions, and a lot more.