When lots of similar receivables are bundled together in an asset-backed security, the average rates of default, late payment and pre-payment are predictable, so both issuers and investors can be relatively confident of their ability to value the security properly.

ECONOMIST: Bonds that rock and roll

And, Social Security is perceived to have no risk of default.

FORBES: Why Americans Are Skeptical About Private Social Security Accounts

Using a secured credit card is the least risky means of credit improvement because it requires the placement of a security deposit that protects an issuer against default, negates the need for an expensive fee structure and ensures that you will not spend beyond your means.

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Default settings for software products sold to consumers should be at the highest level of security, they said.

CNN: Security experts say hackers have the edge

In a blog about the "unscheduled" update, Oracle says it has changed Java's default security settings to "high" which it says means users will be notified of any extra applications which start running while they are browsing.

BBC: Java still contains security flaws, experts claim

Bob Russo, general manager of the PCI Council, says many small businesses neglect basic security measures such as changing default passwords.

WSJ: Hackers New Target: Small Firms With Lax Security