We spend a great deal of time keeping you informed on the latest Internet scandals, viruses, Trojans, worms, rogues... the list of online hazards could go on and on.

That's why it's refreshing to see stories like this one. Not only are people getting together to stop online theft, but they're doing so in an unconventional, grassroots way.

According to USA Today, ordinary "cybercitizens" are spending some of their free time warning victims of cyber-crime, by calling or writing letters, that their stolen personal data (like credit cards numbers, Social Security numbers, and bank account information) is available, and sometimes for sale, on the net. Their common goal: making Internet users aware of the widespread availability of stolen information on the web.

Can word of mouth fight problems in our computer tech-based world? If you get a phone call or letter from a concerned stranger, you might have to agree.