Simicich calls himself an "ethical hacker" who tests Web sites for security RELATED VIDEO Is it safe to buy items on the Internet? Windows Media 28K 56K

November 27, 1998
Web posted at: 10:31 a.m. EST (1531 GMT)

(CNN) -- Nick Simicich calls himself an "ethical hacker," who evaluates security for IBM. He says 30 to 40 percent of Internet Web sites are vulnerable to break-ins. But that does not mean you should not shop online, he added.

"The chances of getting mugged on the way to a store are much higher than having your credit card stolen on the Internet," Simicich said.

CNN's Carol Lin has the story in an interview with Simicich.