This is important information for females of ALL ages.

A group of rapists and date rapists in prison were interviewed on what they look for in a potential victim and here are some interesting facts :

The first thing men look for in a potential victim is hairstyle. They are most likely to go after a woman with a ponytail, bun, braid or other hairstyle that can easily be grabbed . They are also likely to go after a woman with long hair. Women with short hair are not common targets.

The second thing men look for is clothing. They will look for women who's clothing is easy to remove quickly. Many of them carry scissors around specifically to cut clothing.

They also look for women on their cell phone, searching through their purse or doing other activities while walking because they are off guard and can be easily overpowered.

Men are most likely to attack & rape in the early morning, between 5:00a.m. and 8:30a.m.

The number one place women are abducted from/attacked is grocery store parking lots . Number two is office parking lots/garages. Number three is public restrooms.

The thing about these men is that they are looking to grab a woman and quickly move her to another location where they don't have to worry about getting caught.

Only 2% said they carried weapons because rape carries a 3-5 year sentence but rape with a weapon is 15-20 years.

If you put up any kind of a fight at all, they get discouraged because it only takes a minute or two for them to realize that going after you isn't worth it because it will be time-consuming .

These men said they would not pick on women who have umbrellas , or other similar objects that can be used from a distance, in their hands. Keys are not a deterrent because you have to get really close to the attacker to use them as a weapon. So, the idea is to convince these guys you're not worth it.

Several defense mechanisms he taught us are: If someone is following behind you on a street or in a garage or with you in an elevator or stairwell, look them in the face and ask them a question, like what time is it, or make general small talk: "I can't believe it is so cold out here", "we're in for a bad winter." Now you've seen their face and could identify them in a line-up; you lose appeal as a target.

If someone is coming toward you , hold out your hands in front of you and yell STOP or STAY BACK ! Most of the rapists this man talked to said they'd leave a woman alone if she yelled or showed that she would not be afraid to fight back . Again, they are looking for an EASY target.

If you carry pepper spray (this instructor was a huge advocate of it and carries it with him wherever he goes,) yell I HAVE PEPPER SPRAY and holding it out will be a deterrent.

If someone grabs you, you can't beat them with strength but you can by outsmarting them. If you are grabbed around the waist from behind, pinch the attacker either under the arm (between the elbow and armpit) OR in the upper inner thigh VERY VERY HARD. One woman in a class this guy taught told him she used the underarm pinch on a guy who was trying to date rape her and was so upset she broke through the skin and tore out muscle strands - the guy needed stitches.

Try pinching yourself in those places as hard as you can stand it; it hurts.

After the initial hit, always GO for the GROIN. I know from a particularly unfortunate experience that if you slap a guy's parts it is extremely painful. You might think that you'll anger the guy and make him want to hurt you more, but the thing these rapists told our instructor is that they want a woman who will not cause a lot of trouble. Start causing trouble, and he's out of there.

When the guy puts his hands up to you , grab his first two fingers and bend them back as far as possible with as much pressure pushing down on them as possible. The instructor did it to me without using much pressure, and I ended up on my knees and both knuckles cracked audibly.

Of course the things we always hear still apply. Always be aware of your surroundings, take someone with you if you can and if you see any odd behavior, don't dismiss it, go with your instincts!!!

You may feel a little silly at the time, but you'd feel much worse if the guy really was trouble.



-Birdy

RAPE IS A CRIME:

According to most estimates, 80-90% of rapes are not reported to authorities. Current trends project that 1 in 3 American women will be sexually assaulted at some point during her life.

The typical rape victim is a 16-24 year-old woman. Anyone, however -- man or woman, adult or child -- can be the victim of rape. Most commonly, the assailant is a 25-44 year-old man who plans his attack. He usually chooses a woman of the same race. Nearly half the time, the victim knows the rapist at least casually, by working or living near him. Alcohol is involved in more than 1 out of 3 rapes. Over 50% of rapes occur in the victim's home. The rapist breaks into the victim's home or gains access under false pretenses, such as asking to use the phone or posing as a repairman or salesman. Rape is a violent act, and most commonly committed by a male upon a female. However, some cases of rape have been reported in which a woman has raped a man. Rape also may occur between members of the same sex. This is more prevalent in situations where access to the opposite sex is restricted (such as prisons, military settings, and single-sex schools). Rape is an act of violence expressed through sex, but is not primarily about sex. Those who face some form of discrimination are believed to be at higher risk of sexual assault. This increased vulnerability can assume various forms. For example, those with disabilities or limited language skills have a decreased ability to call for help; prostitutes or convicted prisoners have decreased credibility.

Rape Prevention

The most useful prevention tool currently available is to make women more aware of the reality of rape. Law enforcement agencies strongly advocate prevention as the best form of protection. The following safety tips may help minimize the chance of being raped:

• Keep doors/windows secured with locks. 
   
• If walking or jogging, stay out of secluded or isolated areas and arrange to do the activity with at least one other friend, rather than alone. It is best to engage in activities during daylight hours. 
   
• Try to appear strong, confident, aware, and secure in your surroundings. 
   
• Keep car doors locked while driving, check back of car for intruders prior to getting in, and park in open, well-lit areas. 
   
• On public transportation, sit near the driver or up front if possible; avoid sitting near groups of young men obviously associated with one another. 
   
• Consider taking a self-defense class, which can promote self-confidence and provide useful skills and strategies for different situations. 
   
• Carry items that can call attention to you if needed (whistles, personal alarms, etc.) 
   
• If an assault attempt is initiated, scream loudly and/or blow a whistle. 
   
• Do not hitchhike. If your vehicle breaks down and someone offers to give you a ride, ask the person to call for help while you stay locked in your vehicle. 
   
  

It is better to respond quickly and actively to an attack, according to numerous studies. People, especially women, who resist the attacker this way are more likely to avoid being raped, compared with those who exhibit either passive behavior or no resistance.

The Symptoms Of Being Raped:

Rape is a very traumatic event. The person who was raped may or may not be able to say that she was actually raped, or she may seek medical attention for a different complaint. Emotional reactions differ greatly and may include: confusion, social withdrawal, tearfulness, nervousness or seemingly inappropriate laughter, numbness, hostility, and fear. A person who was raped may have a variety of other physical concerns needing to be addressed. Physical abuse is often present as well. Emergency room staff are specially trained to deal with all of these situations.

The Signs o Being Raped and The Tests That Must Be Conducted

A history will be obtained in a supportive and non-judgmental way. This will include the details of the attack: the date and time of the rape, where it occurred, and what the attacked person has done since the attack (for example, showered and changed clothes or came directly to the hospital). If possible, this interview should be done with both medical and investigating police present, to eliminate the need for the person to repeatedly recall the incident. Additional medical history that should be obtained includes: any possibility of pregnancy prior to the attack; the date of the last menstrual period; a pertinent gynecological history, including any prior sexual abuse or assault; and the presence of chronic illness or recent illness or injury, as well as current medications. A complete physical examination should be done to document any objective signs of trauma. Pictures may be taken to note bruises, scrapes, or cuts. X-rays will be taken if fractures are suspected. Numerous samples and specimens may be collected for evidence including clothing, pubic hair samples (particularly if foreign materials are seen within it), fingernail scrapings, and vaginal samples to examine for evidence of sperm and test for sexually transmitted diseases (mouth or anal samples may also be required).

Rape and/or Sexual Assault Treatment

In many cities, rape cases are referred to specific emergency rooms. This allows for more specialized care for the unique needs of the person who was raped, and assures proper procedures are followed to maintain the "chain of evidence" necessary for a case that may go to trial. Such sexual assault treatment centers may also employ, or have available on-call, a team that is specialized in assessing and dealing with the emotional, physical, and legal issues a person who was raped faces. Most state laws require that the person be evaluated in the emergency room prior to the rape being officially reported. It is recommended that a person go to the hospital immediately after the rape occurs, without changing clothes, showering, douching, or urinating. Such activities may alter or destroy evidence helpful in identifying and prosecuting the rapist. Treatment focuses on providing enough emotional support while attempting to collect enough objective evidence to verify the person's complaint of rape. If the person who was raped has a support person she wants present, the treatment team should try to make that possible; otherwise someone (such as a nurse) should be "assigned" to stay with the person throughout the interviews and examination. Someone who was attacked should not be left alone unless she wishes to be. She should be offered the choice of being interviewed in street clothes rather than in a patient gown. The examination and collection of specimens should be fully explained beforehand, and whenever possible, the person should be given choices in an attempt to give her back a sense of control. Maintaining a supportive environment, free from any judgmental statements, may encourage a person who has been attacked to express whatever feelings arise. Treatment includes addressing any potential for pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases, offering information relevant to those possibilities, and providing care for the immediate physical and emotional trauma incurred, as well as planning follow-up care. If there is a chance that the rapist is HIV-infected, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP, a way to reduce the odds of infection by immediate use of anti-retro-viral medications) should be explained and offered. Referral to a local rape crisis center may be helpful. These centers offer peer support, and advice necessary for adequate healing from the trauma.

A Rape Victims Outlook

Recovery from a rape typically includes the acute phase (immediate period of physical pain and wound healing, emotional reactions and coping mechanisms put into action), and the reorganization phase (occurring about one week after the rape and lasting months to years, as the person attempts to "get on with life"). Group psychotherapy with other rape survivors as been show to be the most effective treatment.

Rape and/or Sexual Assault Related Complications

Some women are never fully able to recover emotionally from a rape. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common complication. Symptoms include recurrent nightmares, intrusive memories (flashbacks) of the event, social withdrawal, depression, anxiety, and numbing of emotions. Cognitive psychotherapy and antidepressant medications have been shown to be effective treatments for PTSD. More than 50% of rape victims have some difficulty in re-establishing relationships with spouses or partners or, if unattached, in re-entering the "dating scene." Any per-existing psychiatric disorders may be worsened. Suicidal behaviors, depression, and substance abuse may develop or become more prominent.

Please Call Your Health Care Provider If:

• You have been raped: go to the nearest emergency room right away. Do not shower or change your clothes. 
   
• You were sexually assaulted in the past but never sought or received adequate care. 
   
• You have been raped (recently or in the past) and are experiencing personal or relationship problems.
  

-Birdy

With online networks steering our social lives these days, deciding exactly how to represent ourselves on the web can be tricky. This episode of Upgrade Your Life addresses 5 kinds of photos you should avoid putting online — and why.



1. Don't post pictures showing personal data
Even if your Twitter account is private and you closely monitor who sees what on your Facebook profile, personal data revealed in photos isn't necessarily safe. Strangers and hackers aren't the only threat; people you know can steal your identity, too. And according to a study conducted by the Javelin Strategy and Research group, they are with increasing frequency, thanks to social media. According to Javelin's 2010 Identity Fraud Survey, people between the ages of 18 to 24 were especially prone to this kind of identity theft, likely due to their high level of engagement with social networking websites.



By 2011, this demographic had shifted to the 25- to 34 age group who are now the most likely victims of so-called "friendly fraud. Older Americans are the least likely to secure their social media accounts, which also puts them at high risk for identity theft at the hands of friends and acquaintances.



* Don't post any images with any identifying information whatsoever. No driver's licenses, marriage certificates, leases, or passports. You may think that's obvious, but do an image search and you'll see plenty of newly married couples, proud teen drivers, and world travelers posting high resolution pics of their documents.

* Even if you think your photos are private, more people might be able to see them than you think. On Facebook, friends of friends might be able to see photos tagged of you, if the photo's owner has the setting enabled. Facebook's photo settings are notoriously complex, so err on the side of caution and untag photos when necessary.



2. Disable location services and geotagging
Cameras are increasingly sophisticated — even the ones built into our phones. As you snap pictures, many cameras record information called EXIF data or metadata, including the camera's make & model, settings like speed and aperture, and the time the photo was taken.

While much of this is helpful, it's just good for you to know you may be posting this info with a photo. Probably the biggest issue with embedded photo data is geotagging: when a GPS-enabled camera, memory card, or cell phone camera pinpoints your exact location in the metadata — even without your knowledge. Some social networking services strip that data out, but others include it — which mean you've essentially posted your home address online for anyone who knows how to view the geotagging data.

If your device includes this geodata as the default option, you'll need to disable it in your settings. If you're working with a point-and-shoot camera or a DSLR, you can find this through the settings menu on your camera — just look for a menu mentioning "geotagging," "location" or "geodata" and to be sure the feature isn't enabled.

Turn off geotagging on Android and iPhone
To disable geotagging on an Android device, open the camera app and be sure the "geo-tag photos" box in the settings menu is unchecked. On an iPhone, hit the settings icon, click on "location services" from the menu, find "Camera" and move the slider from On to Off.



3. Incriminating photos
As social networks skyrocket in popularity, employers are increasingly hopping on the web to research potential new hires. Many businesses search the web for information about their prospective or current employees. Now, background checking companies like Social Intelligence Corp. have capitalized on this kind of job vetting. The FTC recently ruled that such companies can store your long-deleted online indiscretions for up to 7 years. And since 47% of Facebook walls contain content that could be deemed profane, that fact is relevant to a lot of us.

* Resist the urge to post "party photos" on social networks. And yes that means no pics with the red keg cup in hand, even if you were only drinking water.

* Keep the way you'd like to be perceived professionally in mind when choosing a profile picture.

* If friends tag you in an incriminating Facebook photo, a recent privacy overhaul means you can approve or disapprove the tag, which will keep it from showing up on your profile page. Keep in mind this new feature is limited, so those photos can still pop up elsewhere on Facebook.

4. Cut out poorly cropped photos
While it's no security risk, there's little reason to choose Facebook profile photo with a stray arm or shoulder in it. If you're looking to meet people online on a dating site or social network, make the effort to choose a profile that features you, without the distraction of half of someone else in the picture. That someone else could distract anyone who looks at your profile — who is it? Where was it taken? Is that your ex? But keeping the focus on you is easy, thanks to free apps.

Improve your photos with these free tools
Photos editing services like Picnik, and DrPic, can make cropping a snap. There's no need to use Microsoft Paint to edit a photo — if you need to tinker around with a shot, use one of these free services.

And pick an interesting one — according to stats from OKCupid, one of the web's most popular dating sites, you'll be far more likely to strike up a conversation with a potential match if your photo shows you doing something interesting, like playing the guitar or scuba diving.



5. Avoid webcam profile photos
There are a range of great, cheap, easy-to-use cameras out there, which means something better than your computer's built-in or external webcam is often at hand. Even cameraphones often boast 5 megapixels or more, which can easily eclipse the photo quality of a webcam, even on new computers. Since many webcams are optimized for video, the photo quality deteriorates when it comes to still images. Apple's new FaceTime cameras, found on the iPad 2, the MacBook Air, and other devices are one example of this. These cameras make moving pictures look great, but your still shot may be grainy and blurred.



How to improve your self-portraits
To get a good shot of yourself, you're better off using any kind of point-and-shoot camera, a DSLR for the best image quality, or even your phone. Since you can potentially find a tripod for each of these devices (check out GorillaMobile for your phone), set up your shot in advance so it will be well-framed and well-lit.

For a flattering outdoor photo, avoid the high-noon sun. Instead either take your own photo — or better yet, recruit a friend's help — during the early morning and late afternoon hours, when photographers are known to capture the best kind of light for portraits.



-Birdy

What is a "SAFE Center of Excellence"?

Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner (SAFE) services are considered the best and most victim-centered approach to acute health care for sexual assault patients. The New York State Department of Health certifies Emergency Departments as SAFE Centers of Excellence.


SAFE Centers provide sexual assault patients with:

Sensitive, victim-centered, medical and forensic health care performed by a specially trained Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner (SAFE). A SAFE is a healthcare provider such as a doctor, nurse, physicians assistant or nurse practitioner.

Care that is timely, compassionate, and patient-centered, in a designated and appropriately equipped private room:

Assurance about the quality of collection, documentation, preservation and custody of physical evidence by utilizing a trained and Washington State Department of Health-certified sexual assault forensic examiner to perform exams. These examiners are available to provide expert testimony if patients choose to report crimes to law enforcement.

Psycho-social and legal support by a specially trained Rape Crisis Advocate or Counselor.

Reliable referrals to mental and physical health care and follow-up services.

Emergency Care

If you have been raped within the past 96 hours …

Get to a safe place. (For example -- someone’s home, the nearest hospital or police station)

Call 911 to be taken to an emergency room for medical care and/or for immediate police protection and assistance. A complete medical evaluation will include a physical examination, treatment, evidence collection, and/or counseling. Remember, you will not be made to do anything you do not want to do and may decline any of the elements of this evaluation.

If you have been raped, it is important to seek medical care, especially if you have been physically injured. Even if you do not have any visible physical injuries from the assault, there may be physical injuries that you cannot see, and medical and health centers can provide additional services such as testing for sexually transmitted diseases and emergency contraception.

When you call 911, explain what has happened and request to be sent to an emergency department that is a certified SAFE Center of Excellence. (See "What is a ‘SAFE Center of Excellence")

In the meantime, do not change clothes, bathe, douche, or brush your teeth. This is important for the evidence collection process that will occur at the hospital.

If you seek to place a report with the police or press charges, it is best for evidence collection to occur within 96 hours of the rape.

Keep in mind, though, that evidence collection does not require you to place a report with the police or press charges, it just preserves these options for the future.

Or, go directly to the nearest SAFE Center of Excellence Emergency Department. If you go to the nearest emergency department that that is not a designated SAFE Center, you can be transferred to the nearest SAFE Center of Excellence.

Be sure to call your local Rape Relief Center.

-Birdy

Job Hunting? ‘Scrub’ Facebook and 6 Other Tips

School’s over. So now you need to get a job.

In years gone by, you’d hit the pavement or snail-mail resumes when looking for work. Today you’re more likely to be applying for jobs online and posting your resume on a site like LinkedIn. These technological improvements make job-searching faster and more effective. But the way we use technology can also submarine the chance of getting a job, experts contend.

What mistakes should you avoid?

Facebook faux pas: By now everybody has heard the advice that you should lose the boozy Facebook photos, but that’s just the start, says Jodi Schneider, a job coach and trainer who writes the job-search blog DCWorks.

“You need to scrub the page. If there’s anything on there that you wouldn’t want some stuffy executive to see, get rid of it,” she says. “You may say that it’s my right to have it there and you’re right. But then accept that you won’t get the job.”

What does “scrub” the page mean? Take down compromising photos and erase comments that use profane language. Go through your Facebook profile and make sure that everything from your favorite movies and videos to your “likes” wouldn’t offend a prospective employer.

While you’re at it, re-set your privacy controls so that just friends can see your profile. You might also choose to hide your wall, just in case you’ve got impolitic buddies, who are likely to post comments and photos that would undermine the professional outgoing message that you’re now trying to project.

Google them: Employers are going to Google you and find out as much as they can before they meet you in person, you should be doing the same with them, Schneider says. Pull up articles; find friends who have worked for your target company and ask them to tell you about the corporate culture and goals, adds Vicky Oliver, author of “301 Smart Answers to Tough Interview Questions.” Figure out how you could fit into the company so you can emphasize these strengths both in your resume and an interview.

Grammar check: We’ve all gotten used to cellphone short-hand like: “When r u home?” It’s not appropriate for online job applications. In fact, you need to read and re-read those applications several times before hitting the “submit” button to ensure that you don’t have typos and grammatical errors. Spell-check isn’t enough. Your resume could say you’ve graduated Summa Cum Laude, but if you use the wrong form of their/there/they’re, your prospective employer is going to wonder what you’ve learned.

Please leave a message: Your friends may think having a rapping outgoing message like “Yo, yo. I’m out capping, or maybe just napping; but can’t talk with you, so you know what to do” is a laugh-riot. Lose it.

“When I hear, ‘You know what to do,’ I do know what to do,” says Schneider. “I hang up. If that’s the message machine that a recruiter is going to call, you’d better make sure that the outgoing message is professional.”

Email me: The same holds true for your email address. You may be the world’s biggest Big Lebowski fan; or think Jersey Shore is where it’s at, but telling your prospective employer to email you at “thedudeabides” or “snooki4evr” is not your best bet. It takes five minutes to set up a free gmail account with your first and last name. Do it before you apply for work.

No-phone zone: If you get past the initial stages of job searching and make it to an interview, turn off the cell phone.

“We’re all used to multi-tasking and it’s great to text-message your friends while doing your homework and watching t.v.,” said Oliver. But if you’re distracted in a job interview, the employer is going to think you’re not interested — or at least not interested enough to work there.

Turn off the cell. Don’t just set it on “silent.” You don’t want to feel it buzzing; you don’t want to be tempted to check it for the time. Look your interviewer in the eye. Listen attentively. Ask questions, when appropriate, and think about your answers. Don’t fidget.

“People forget how many non-verbal cues they’re sending,” says Schneider. “You can say you want the job, but if you’re looking around and fidgeting, your non-verbal cues say you’re not interested. They’re going to base a decision on what you do, not what you say.”

Electronic thanks: Lastly, if you got an in-person interview, be sure to say “thank you” afterwards via email, says Oliver. A written thank-you note could get lost in the pile; an electronic one is more likely to reach the recipient. An emailed note has the added benefit of giving your prospective boss an easy way to reach you by hitting “reply.” Write the email formally, as if it were a letter, she advises. You can drop the formality if the boss replies informally, but always be professional.

In the end, it’s about projecting attractive professional attributes personally and electronically. You need your application to stand out because jobs are scarce and competition is fierce.

“It’s about presenting a good portrait of yourself,” says Schneider. “It should be an authentic portrait, but one that shows you in the best light.”

-Birdy

Seven Kitchen Tricks You Should Know

Sometimes the simplest solutions are the best. Ironically, many of the following tricks for fixing common kitchen dilemmas aren’t widely known. But tuck them in your proverbial apron and you’ll have a far easier time resolving the following problems next time you face them:



1. How to Open Stubborn Pistachios
Pistachios are way too expensive to waste. Yet many of the delicious roasted nuts arrived in shells with little to no opening. Rather than attempting to bite them open or ruin your nails in a struggle you can’t win, next time try this foolproof method for opening stubborn shells: Take one half of a shell, stick it into even the littlest opening of an unopened pistachio, and turn the shell half like a key. The pistachio will pop right open!

2. How to Easily Remove Egg Shells Dropped into Eggs
It happens to all of us: You crack open an egg and a tiny piece of its shell falls into the bowl along with the raw egg. If you’ve tried to get it out with your finger or a spoon, you know the slippery dilemma you face. Next time, wet your finger with water before attempting to fish it out. You’ll be shocked at how easily it can be grabbed and eliminated.



3. How to Make Burnt Pots Look New Again
Considering how much a nice set of pots and pans costs, you’d expect them to be easy to clean. But even the best stainless steel cooking gear gets black with use and cooked-on remnants. If you’ve attempted to scrub them clean you have probably succumbed to the notion that they will never glisten again. But, if you spray pots with oven cleaner and leave them for a couple of hours the grime will wipe right off! Likewise stainless kettles.

Gadgets That Make Cooking More Fun
4. How to Refresh Crystallized Honey
You know that jar or bottle of honey that’s hardened and crystallized on your shelf? It can easily be brought back to its easy-to-pour glory if you let it sit for 15 minutes in boiling water that has cooled for five minutes.



5. How to Soften Hardened Brown SugarBrown sugar hardens as its moisture evaporates over time in the cupboard. But you can easily re-moisturize it by placing the open sugar bag in a microwave with a cup of water next to it and zapping it on high for three minutes. Or you can place the sugar in a bowl, cover the sugar with a double layer of wet paper towels, and then cover the bowl with foil or plastic wrap and let it stand overnight.



6. How to Remove Stains from Wooden Cutting Boards
Can rings and wine and strawberries stains don’t help the style of your cutting board. To get out stains, try sprinkling the board with salt rubbing it with lemon. For more stubborn stains, try an abrasive antibacterial kitchen cleaner and scouring pad. For the toughest, reach for sandpaper! And of course wash thoroughly afterward!



Beautiful Clocks for Every Room
7. How to Salvage Overripe Fruit
Fruit is expensive, yet it goes bad so quickly and easily. But you don’t need to toss your bruised or overripe bananas, peaches, or strawberries. The minute you see your fruit going bad, wash it, slice it, peel it (in the case of bananas) and freeze it in sealable bags. Then you have instant smoothie or pie makings anytime!



-Birdy

Internet Crime Complaint Center's (IC3)

Scam Alerts

October 1, 2011

This report, which is based upon information from law enforcement and complaints submitted to the IC3, details recent cyber crime trends and new twists to previously-existing cyber scams.

"Mass Joinder Lawsuits" Promising Home Mortgage Relief

The IC3 has received several complaints from individuals who reported they received a letter stating they were a potential plaintiff in a "Mass Joinder" lawsuit being filed by a law firm located in California, against their mortgage companies. Consumers stated they were requested to pay non-refundable, upfront fees of $2,000 to $5,000. The law firm made a wide variety of claims and sales pitches and offered legal and litigation services, with the goal of taking money from the victim.

Lawyers seeking plaintiffs to join a class for a class action lawsuit do not seek up front commission from their class clients. Class action lawyers are typically paid on a contingency basis. In a contingency fee arrangement, an attorney receives approximately 40% of any judgment or settlement amount obtained on the client's behalf.

Warnings have been posted on-line regarding "Mass Joinder" by the California Department of Real Estate; the Better Business Bureau; as well as consumers who have been scammed and posted their experiences, insights, and warnings. 

 

On-line Auction Site PlayStation Bundle Ad Scam

The IC3 has received several complaints from individuals who reported they received an unsolicited e-mail stating their ad for a Sony Playstation 3 Metal Gear Solid 4 PS3 80 GB Bundle has been posted and a confirmation number was enclosed for the posting. In each instance the victim claimed they did not place an ad on an on-line auction site for the Sony Playstation Bundle. Some victims stated they did not even have an on-line auction account.

Warnings have been posted on-line to beware of auction site phishing e-mail scams and specifically mention the above-mentioned scam. One warning indicated the scam was first reported in January 2009.

Fraud Trends Affecting The eCommerce Community

Ethoca recently provided the IC3 information pertaining to the increase in fraud attempts incurred by on-line merchants. Ethoca was founded under the concept of safely sharing transaction data to fight on-line credit card fraud. The company serves as a data sharing platform for merchants to stop on-line fraud and is partnered with the National Cyber Forensics and Training Alliance (NCFTA). The data received by Ethoca remains private and is only used for fraud prevention. The following information is based on Ethoca's data collection and information sharing process.

Advisory On Military Addresses

On 07/11/2011, the hacker group Anonymous posted 90,000 e-mail addresses and passwords. As a result of this posting, merchants have reported some orders containing military e-mail addresses have been identified as fraudulent. Until this time, military e-mail addresses typically meant an order was less likely to be fraudulent. The increase in fraud orders has happened within the last 30 days.

E-mail Address Tumbling

E-mail address tumbling has been around for awhile and fraudsters have used it for many years. On the other side, good consumers utilize address tagging to identify orders.

The purpose of e-mail tagging is to allow consumers to have one e-mail address for every purpose. The attractive feature of e-mail tagging is it allows the consumer to vary their e-mail address to help differentiate when placing orders, shopping, working, schooling, etc., but automatically forwards to the primary e-mail address. 

This feature on Gmail works in two ways, either with a period or a plus sign. The period works by allowing the consumer to take an e-mail address, JohnDoe@gmail.com, and add as many periods as the consumer wants to the e-mail address, JohnDoe.....@gmail.com,    J.o.h.n.D.o.e@gmail.com, etc.

The feature most often used is the + feature, which allows a user to add additional tags to their e-mail address to easily identify how someone obtained their name. Using the above example, when shopping on-line, a consumer can tag their e-mail as JohnDoe+ 081811OnlineRetailerName @gmail.com. 

This allows the user to know they shopped on-line with a merchant on that specific day.

These features can be used in combination with rules to route e-mails into different boxes, keeping inbox e-mail volume down, and helping users be more efficient.

Fraudsters have figured out this tip and use what has been termed e-mail address tumbling, so the fraudster does not have to create unique user accounts for their many fraud attempts. So far these features have only been found to work with Gmail accounts.

-Birdy

Sexual Assault

*  Definition

*  Overview

*  Reactions of Sexual Assault Victims

*  If an Individual is Sexually Assaulted

*  HIV/AIDS and the Sexual Assault Survivor

*  Services for the Sexual Assault Survivor

*  What to do for a Victim of Sexual Assault

*  References

*  Bibliography

*  Additional Information

* In 2005, 92 percent of rape or sexual assault victims were female; those 16-19 years old had the highest rate of sexual victimization of any age group. A total of 191,670 rapes and/or sexual assaults were experienced by victims 12 years old or older (Shannan M. Catalano, 2005).

* Of female sexual assault victims, 73 percent were assaulted by someone they knew, and 26 percent were assaulted by a stranger. Thirty-eight percent of women assaulted by a known offender were friends or acquaintances of the rapist, and 28 percent were intimate partners (Shannan M. Catalano, 2005).

* Under 39 percent of all rapes and sexual assaults were reported to law enforcement (Shannan M. Catalano, 2005). Sexual assault is one of the most underreported crimes, with males being the least likely to report a sexual assault (RAINN, 2005).

* Recent research has found that rape survivors who had the assistance of an advocate were significantly more likely to have police reports taken and were less likely to be treated negatively by police officers. These women also reported that they experienced less distress after their contact with the legal system (Rebecca Campbell, 2006).

* Between 1999 and 2000, all rapes, 39 percent of attempted rapes, and 17 percent of sexual assaults against females resulted in injuries. Most victims did not receive treatment for their injuries (Callie Rennison, 2006).

* In 2004, there was a 50% increase in victim compensations paid for forensic sexual assault exams compared to 2003 (National Association of Crime Victim Compensation Boards, FY 2004).

Definition:

Sexual assault takes many forms including attacks such as rape or attempted rape, as well as any unwanted sexual contact or threats. Usually a sexual assault occurs when someone touches any part of another person's body in a sexual way, even through clothes, without that person's consent. Some types of sexual acts which fall under the category of sexual assault include forced sexual intercourse (rape), sodomy (oral or anal sexual acts), child molestation, incest, fondling and attempted rape. Sexual assault in any form is often a devastating crime. Assailants can be strangers, acquaintances, friends, or family members. Assailants commit sexual assault by way of violence, threats, coercion, manipulation, pressure or tricks. Whatever the circumstances, no one asks or deserves to be sexually assaulted.

Overview

In most jurisdictions, the term sexual assault has replaced the term rape in the state statutes. This was done to be more gender-neutral and to cover more specific types of sexual victimization and various levels of coercion. For example, some state codes define Sexual Assault in the First Degree or Aggravated Sexual Assault as physically or psychologically forced vaginal, anal or oral penetration - which has typically been thought of as rape.

Sexual Abuse, Sexual Misconduct, Sodomy, Lascivious Acts, Indecent Contact, and Indecent Exposure are all examples of possible sexual assault charges. Basically, almost any sexual behavior a person has not consented to that causes that person to feel uncomfortable, frightened or intimidated is included in the sexual assault category.

The law generally assumes that a person does not consent to sexual conduct if he or she is forced, threatened or is unconscious, drugged, a minor, developmentally disabled, chronically mentally ill, or believe they are undergoing a medical procedure. Some examples of sexual assault include:

• Someone putting their finger, tongue, mouth, penis or an object in or on your vagina, penis or anus when you don't want them to;

• Someone touching, fondling, kissing or making any unwanted contact with your body;

• Someone forcing you to perform oral sex or forcing you to receive oral sex;

• Someone forcing you to masturbate, forcing you to masturbate them, or fondling and touching you;

• Someone forcing you to look at sexually explicit material or forcing you to pose for sexually explicit pictures; and

• A doctor, nurse, or other health care professional giving you an unnecessary internal examination or touching your sexual organs in an unprofessional, unwarranted and inappropriate manner.

Reactions of Sexual Assault Victims

Since every person and situation is different, victims of sexual assault will respond to an assault in different ways. Many factors can influence an individual's response to, and recovery from, sexual assault. These may include the age and developmental maturity of the victim; the social support network available to the victim; the victim's relationship to the offender; the response to the attack by police, medical personnel, and victim advocates; the response to the attack by the victim's loved ones; the frequency, severity and duration of the assault(s); the setting of the attack; the level of violence and injury inflicted; the response by the criminal justice system; community attitudes and values; and the meaning attributed to the traumatic event by the sexual assault survivor (Koss & Harvey, 1991). Some survivors of sexual assault will find they can recover relatively quickly, while others will feel the lasting effects of their victimization throughout their lifetime. 

 

Possible Physical Effects of Sexual Assault

• Pain

• Injuries

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Headaches

  
  

Possible Emotional/Psychological Effects of Sexual Assault

• Shock/denial

• Irritability/anger

• Depression

• Social withdrawal

• Numbing/apathy (detachment, loss of caring)

• Restricted affect (reduced ability to express emotions)

• Nightmares/flashbacks

• Difficulty concentrating

• Diminished interest in activities or sex

• Loss of self-esteem

• Loss of security/loss of trust in others

• Guilt/shame/embarrassment

• Impaired memory

• Loss of appetite

• Suicidal ideation (thoughts of suicide and death)

• Substance Abuse

• Psychological disorders

  
  

Possible Physiological Effects of Sexual Assault

• Hypervigilance (always being "on your guard")

• Insomnia

• Exaggerated startle response (jumpiness)

• Panic attacks

• Eating problems/disorders

• Self-mutilation (cutting, burning or otherwise hurting oneself)

• Sexual dysfunction (not being able to perform sexual acts)

• Hyperarousal (exaggerated feelings/responses to stimuli)

  
  

In addition to these effects, a survivor of sexual assault may develop Rape-related Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (RR-PTSD). According to the National Women's Study, nearly one-third of all rape victims develop RR-PTSD sometime during their lifetimes (National Center for Victims of Crime & Crime Victims Research and Treatment Center, 1992). PTSD is a mental health disorder primarily characterized by chronic anxiety, depression and flashbacks which develop after experiencing significant trauma such as combat, natural disaster or violent crime victimization. RR-PTSD is diagnosed by a mental health professional when the biological, psychological and social effects of trauma are severe enough to have impaired a survivor's social and occupational functioning (Allen, 1995 p.169)..

If an Individual is Sexually Assaulted

It is important that the victim of sexual assault understand that no matter where they were, the time of day or night assaulted, what they were wearing, or what they said or did, if they did not want the sexual contact, then the assault was in no way their fault. Persons who commit sexual assault do so out of a need to control, dominate, abuse and humiliate. Sexual assault is the articulation of aggression through sex, and has little to do with passion, lust, desire, or sexual arousal.

Survivors of sexual assault, as stated earlier, react in many different ways following the assault(s).  

Whatever the reaction, it may be helpful for the victim of sexual assault to call a friend, relative, partner, the police, or an advocate specifically trained in assisting victims of sexual assault. Some prosecutor's offices, police departments, and every local sexual assault program have trained advocates who work with sexual assault victims and can provide a variety of services including:

Accompaniment to the hospital, during the rape exam and to the police station; 
 

• Information about reporting procedures and what to expect; 
   
• Legal advocacy and court accompaniment; 
   
• Emergency crisis intervention, counseling and referrals; 
   
• Counseling for the victim's partner, spouse or family; 
   
• Assistance in finding care for children; and 
   
• Information about sexually transmitted diseases, HIV and pregnancy testing. 
   
• Immediately after an assault, it is most important that the victim find a safe place, such as a neighbor or friend's house, police station, or hospital. If the assault occurred in the home, the house should be secured as soon as possible by locking all the doors and windows. If a survivor is hurt, it is imperative to immediately dial 911 to request an ambulance or have a trusted friend or relative transport the survivor to the nearest medical facility for evaluation and treatment.
  
  

Reporting the Assault(s)

• The decision to report a sexual assault lies within the discretion of the sexual assault survivor. If a sexual assault survivor plans to report the assault to law enforcement, it is crucial for evidentiary reasons that they do not:

  
  

• Shower, bathe, or douche;

  
  

• Throw away any clothes that were worn at the time of the assault;

  
  

• Brush or comb their hair;

  
  

• Use the restroom;

  
  

• Brush their teeth or gargle;

  
  

• Put on makeup;

  
  

• Clean or straighten up the crime scene; and

  
  

• Eat or drink anything.

  
  

If planning to report, it may prove helpful for the survivor to immediately write down everything they can remember about the assault including: what the assailant(s) looked like (e.g., height, weight, scars, tattoos, hair color, clothes); any unusual odor; any noticeable signs of intoxication; anything the assailant(s) said during the assault; what kinds of sexual activities were demanded and/or carried out; what kinds of weapons, threats or physical force were used; and any special traits noticed (e.g., limp, speech impediments, use of slang, lack of erection, etc.) (Johnson, 1985). Writing it down will not only aid the survivor in recalling details should they be required to testify, but it also gives the sexual assault survivor an active role in the investigation, which can allow for a feeling of empowerment and an element of control in a situation where control had previously been taken away.

The survivor who reports the assault to the authorities will most likely have to undergo a sexual assault forensic examination, sometimes called a "rape kit." During this procedure a doctor or nurse will collect the evidence necessary to establish that a crime occurred and, if possible, establish who committed the crime. To do so, the nurse or doctor will perform an internal examination (either vaginally, anally or both) taking swabs of any secretions left by the perpetrator and will do the same to the victim's mouth if any oral contact was made during the assault. In addition, samples of the victim's hair and pubic hair will be plucked from the root, and many times several hairs need to be collected so some discomfort will be felt. The pubic hair will also be combed through to collect any foreign hair, secretions, or matter. The clothes the victim was wearing will be held as evidence also, so it is a good idea for the survivor to bring along a change of clothes to the hospital. A series of photographs will also be taken of the victim, including anywhere there are bruises, scrapes or cuts. 
 
A victim who chooses to report the assault will probably be asked to describe their victimization in detail to several different officers and investigators. The survivor may also have to tell a nurse what happened, and may want to share their feelings with an advocate. If the case is pursued, at a later date the survivor will be interviewed by the prosecutor's office, and may have to take part in different hearings in which the victim is asked questions about the assault. The sexual assault survivor who plans to prosecute should know it may take months or years for a case to go to trial, so he or she should be prepared to talk about their victimization many times before ever having to testify before a trial jury or judge. 
 
It is the fear of intrusive and re-victimizing court procedures that prevent many sexual assault survivors from reporting their assault(s). In 2005, Under 39 percent of all rapes and sexual assaults were reported to law enforcement (Shannan M. Catalano, 2005). Many factors contribute to under-reporting including shame and embarrassment, self-blame, fear of media exposure, fear of further injury or retaliation, and fear of a legal system that often puts the victim's behavior and history on trial. A majority of states now have laws called "rape-shield" statutes, which prohibit any non-relevant evidence of the victim's past sexual history from being used by the defense at trial. 
 
There are benefits to reporting sexual assaults, however, which include being eligible for state crime victim compensation funds. If a victim is eligible, these funds can possibly pay for the sexual assault forensic examination; other medical expenses; one-time or ongoing sexually transmitted disease testing; psychological counseling and treatment; lost wages; and other services and assistance. 
 
In addition, many sexual assault survivors report that choosing to follow through with prosecution contributes to a feeling of accomplishment and empowerment because they are attempting to protect themselves and others in the community from being victimized. Many victims also report the attempt to put their assailant(s) in jail allows for a feeling of closure, enabling them to put the assault behind them (Johnson, 1985). Moreover, it is only by more individuals reporting sexual assaults that pressure can be placed on the legal system and the community at large to reduce the negative consequences on victims who report sexual assaults. 

Furthermore, if individuals who commit sexual assault offenses are not apprehended and prosecuted, they will continue to commit sexual offenses. One widely recognized study found that 126 admitted rapists had committed 907 rapes involving 882 different victims (Abel et al., 1987). That study does not account for the multiple victims of child sexual assault, incest, molestation or other forms of sexual predatory behavior which typically have a high number of victims and re-offense rate. Therefore, the more sex offenders that are apprehended and prosecuted, the fewer victims of sexual assault.

 

HIV/AIDS and the Sexual Assault Survivor

A concern of many survivors of sexual assault is the possibility of transmission of HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, as a result of their victimization. According to the National Women's Study, 40% of rape victims were significantly concerned about contracting HIV as a result of the assault. Though the actual risk of transmission from a single act of sexual assault is relatively low, the psychological stressor of possible HIV infection is quite significant for the survivor of sexual assault (Gostin et al., 1994). If the survivor wishes to be tested for HIV, he or she should talk to a trained advocate or HIV/AIDS professional counselor about the testing process and options. In most cases if a victim has contracted HIV Disease as a result of the assault, he or she will test positive within two weeks of the assault. In some instances it may take up to three months for a positive result. 

If the victim decides to be tested, it is important to locate an anonymous testing site. To protect confidentiality, whenever possible avoid testing at a hospital or with a family physician. If the first test result is negative, follow-up testing should be conducted three months, six months and one year after the assault. Many victims also wish to know the HIV status of their assailant. Most states allow for testing of alleged and convicted sex offenders and disclosure of the results to the victim.

 

Services for the Sexual Assault Survivor

Whether or not a sexual assault victim chooses to report the assault(s) to the authorities, there is support and help for the survivor in most communities. The local rape crisis or sexual assault program's advocates will work with a survivor no matter what course of action they choose to pursue. Along with providing direct service to victims, agencies also conduct sexual assault awareness, prevention and education programs in schools and the community, and work closely with their state sexual assault coalitions to advocate for fair legislation pertaining to victims of sexual crimes. 
 
Many communities have established written protocols for response to sexual assault victims to ensure they are treated by all service providers in a consistent, responsible and sensitive manner. In addition, many jurisdictions have created multi-disciplinary teams, sometimes called S.A.R.T (Sexual Assault Response Team) programs. These teams usually consist of law enforcement officers, advocates, and Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners or doctors that respond to crime scenes, hospitals and police stations to serve the immediate needs of the sexual assault survivor. Communities use this comprehensive approach to sexual assault victim assistance to reduce the negative aftereffects and trauma associated with sexual victimization by limiting the number of interviews and providing the survivor with immediate resources for assistance. 
 
Furthermore, many prosecutors' offices and law enforcement agencies have Victim/Witness programs that work closely with victims once they have decided to report and/or prosecute. These criminal justice system-based service providers in most jurisdictions can assist a victim in filing for state crime victim compensation funds; will file a restitution claim with the Court; will notify a victim of hearings, possible plea negotiations and court schedule changes; will accompany a survivor to various court proceedings; will explain the legal process and legal proceedings to the survivor; and will interact on the behalf of the victim's interests with the various attorneys, court personnel, and the survivor's employer or school. 
 
Many communities also have community mental health centers that provide psychological counseling, support groups and, if necessary, referral to psychiatrists for medication assessments. Most of these centers provide services on a sliding-fee scale basis, charging clients according to what they can afford. 
 
The effects of sexual victimization can be severely traumatic, and survivors generally find that time-limited or even long-term counseling is extremely important to their recovery. Even after initial crisis counseling, victims may find it helpful to return to counseling periodically when it becomes difficult to manage the aftereffects of sexual assault without further guidance and assistance. If the survivor does not wish to contact a sexual assault or rape crisis advocate or mental health counselor, they may want to talk through their feelings with a trusted family member, friend, or member of the clergy. 
 

What to do for a Victim of Sexual Assault

Sexual assault affects not only the victim, but the loved ones and family of the survivor, as well as the community. Family members and friends many times not only have to help their loved one manage the aftereffects of the assault but also have to deal with their own feelings about the victimization of someone they care about. Those that live with the survivor may become concerned about their security and may have similar feelings and responses as those the survivor experiences. Family members in some communities can find support groups for loved ones of those who have been victims of sexual assault. The immediate neighborhood as well may be affected by the victimization of their neighbor and become more concerned about their personal safety. They may respond to the assault(s) by establishing a neighborhood watch program or installing better street lighting. Professionals in the community who have direct contact with the survivor may develop protocols, or guidelines for response, to sexual assault victims to ensure the needs of survivors are being addressed within their respective agencies. 

 

To be of assistance to a survivor one should:

• Listen without judging;

  
  

• Let them know the assault(s) was not their fault;

  
  

• Let them know they did what was necessary to prevent further harm;

  
  

• Reassure the survivor that he or she is cared for and loved;

  
  

• Encourage the sexual assault victim to seek medical attention;

  
  

• Encourage the survivor to talk about the assault(s) with an advocate, mental health professional or someone they trust; and

  
  

• Let them know they do not have to manage this crisis alone.

References

Abel, Gene, et al. (1987). "Self-Reported Sex Crimes of Nonincarcerated Paraphiliacs." Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 2(1): 3-25.

Allen, Jon. (1995). Coping with Trauma. Washington, D.C.: American Psychiatric Press.

Campbell, Rebecca. "Rape Survivor's Experiences with the Legal and Medical Systems: Do Rape Victim Advocates Make a Difference?" Violence Against Women 12 (2006).
 
Catalano, Shannon M.  "Criminal Victimization, 2005." (Washington, DC: Bureau of Justice Statistics, 2006).

Gostin, Lawrence et al. (1994). "HIV Testing, Counseling, and Prophylaxis After Sexual Assault." Journal of the American Medical Association, 271(18): 1436-1444.
Johnson, Kathryn. (1985). If You Are Raped: What Every Woman Needs to Know. Holmes Beach, FL: Learning Publications, Inc.

Koss, Mary & Harvey, Mary. (1991). The Rape Victim: Clinical and Community Interventions. Newbury Park, CA: Sage Library of Social Research.

National Association of Crime Victim Compensation Boards, "FY 2004: Compensation to Victims Continues to Increase." NACVCB, 2005.

National Center for Victims of Crime & Crime Victims Research and Treatment Center. (1992). Rape in America: A Report to the Nation. Arlington, VA: National Center for Victims of Crime.

RAINN, Rape, Abuse & Incent National Network, "National Sexual Assault Hotline," 2006.

Rennison, Callie, "Rape and Sexual Assault: Reporting to Police and Medical Attention," Bureau of Justice Statistics, 2006.

Bibliography

Burgess, Ann. (1991). Rape and Sexual Assault III: A Research Handbook. New York: Garland

For additional information, please contact:

National Sexual Violence Resource Center

123 North Enola Drive

Enola, Pennsylvania. 17025
877-739-3895 (tollfree)

717-909-0710 (phone)

717-909-0714 (fax)

717-909-0715 (TTY)

www.nsvrc.org

National Alliance to End Sexual Violence(202) 289-3903
www.naesv.org



National Center for Victims of Crime2000 M Street NW, Suite 480
Washington, DC 20036
Phone: (202) 467-8700
Fax: (202) 467-8701
www.ncvc.org

Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN)
National Sexual Assault Hotline
2000 L Street, NW, Suite 406
Washington,DC 20036
(202) 544-1034
(800) 656-HOPE (4613)
info@rainn.orgwww.rainn.org



National Association for Crime Victims Compensation Boards(703) 780-3200
www.nacvcb.org



Centers for Disease Control and Prevention1600 Clifton Road
Atlanta, Georgia 30333
(404) 639-3311
Public Inquiries (404) 639-3534, (800) 311-3435
www.cdc.gov

-Birdy