The No. 1 Way to Thwart Identity Thieves

Dear Black Bag Confidential Reader,

Using a VPN (virtual private network) is one of the best things you can do prevent identity theft — especially when you’re using public Wi-Fi, like on an airplane or at your local coffee shop.

My preferred VPN is TunnelBear. It offers a secure internet connection using 256-bit AES encryption and unlimited usage — plus, you can install it on up to five connected devices.

But don’t take my word for it… see for yourself! Click here for a FREE seven-day trial.

Now it’s time to tackle this week’s reader questions.

Will respirators work if North Korea drops a nuke on us and I have to go outside? Or would a gas mask be better?

— Charlie S.

If you have to go outside after a nuclear attack, a full-face gas mask would be better than a respirator or small mask that only covers your mouth and nose.

But even if you’re wearing a gas mask, you should limit your outside exposure, because gas masks don’t work if they don’t fit perfectly on your face. Facial hair, for example, can prevent a gas mask from fitting properly, so you need to be cautious if you have to step outside — even with a mask.

Also, be sure to stock extra filters for your gas mask. And remember, filters do expire, so be sure to keep track of them along with all your other perishable emergency supplies.

My son had his apartment broken into just recently. The building does not have security cameras anywhere on the property. My son has installed a camera outside his door that links to his TV and his cellphone. He has also ordered a security system from SimpliSafe. Do you have any other suggestions or advice?

— Lisa K.

First of all, Lisa, the precautions your son has taken so far are great. In addition to what he’s already done, I recommend changing the locks to Schlage or Medeco — if the apartment manager will allow him to.

I would also add window stops to each window or place pieces of wood in the window tracks so they can’t be opened from the outside. Additionally, he might consider getting a doorstopper alarm to supplement the security system from SimpliSafe.

Finally, remind him to keep the curtains in his apartment closed (even when he’s home) so no one can see inside. Often, criminals will simply peer in apartment windows to see if it looks like anyone is home and if there are any valuables worth stealing.

Hey Jason, I’d like your thoughts on 10 mm versus .45 caliber ammo. Thanks, man, keep up the great work!

— Sam W.

Thank you, Sam. In answer to your question, personally, I would go with a .45 caliber round over a 10 mm.

The thing is .45 caliber rounds are much more common than 10 mm rounds. When it comes to buying ammunition, it will be easier to stock up on .45. Not only that, but after the SHTF, it will be much easier to get your hands on .45 caliber rounds if you’re running low on ammo.

Another thing — although it’s a small difference — the recoil from a 10 mm round is stronger than the recoil from a .45, which you’ll notice if you spend a day comparison shooting.

Now, I know a 10 mm can deliver power comparable to a .45 in a smaller package. So if that’s strictly what you’re looking for, then 10 mm is what you want.

You’ve written a lot about revolvers lately… What’s the best semiauto out there, in your opinion? Do you have a favorite shotgun?

— Adam M.

That’s a tough question to answer, Adam, because I think everyone should find the best gun for them. Ultimately, it doesn’t matter what type of firearm you choose as long as you feel you can confidently use it to defend yourself if you have to.

That being said, I will tell you I am a big fan of Sig Sauer. I suggest checking out the P226 or the new P320. As for shotguns, I like the Remington 870 best.

Stay safe,

Jason Hanson

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