Cybercrime prevention is something you have to think about every time you go online. With the right precautions, you’ll stay safer and reduce your risk of identity theft, ransomware, and more. All of these tips are easy to implement and make your online experience a much better one.
Use strong passwords
Use different user ID / password combinations for different accounts and avoid writing them down. Make the passwords more complicated by combining letters, numbers, special characters (minimum 10 characters in total) and change them on a regular basis.
Secure your computer
Always lock your computerNever leave your computer unlocked while you are away from the keyboard.
Activate your firewall
Firewalls are the first line of cyber defense; they block connections to unknown or bogus sites and will keep out some types of viruses and hackers.
Use anti-virus/malware software
Prevent viruses from infecting your computer by installing and regularly updating an anti-virus software.
Block spyware attacks
Prevent spyware from infiltrating your computer by installing and updating anti-spyware software.
Be safe on social-media
Make sure your social networking profiles (e.g. Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Google+, etc.) are set to private. Check your security settings. Be careful what information you post online. Once it is on the Internet, it is there forever!
Secure your mobile devices
Be aware that your mobile device is vulnerable to viruses and hackers. Only download applications from trusted sources.
Install the latest operating system updates
Keep your applications and operating system (e.g. Windows, Mac, Linux) current with the latest system updates. Turn on automatic updates to prevent potential attacks on older software.
Protect your data
Use encryption for your most sensitive files such as tax returns or financial records, make regular back-ups of all your important data, and store it in another location.
Secure your wireless network
Wi-Fi (wireless) networks at home are vulnerable to intrusion if they are not properly secured. Review and modify default settings. Public Wi-Fi, a.k.a. “Hot Spots”, are also vulnerable. Avoid conducting financial or corporate transactions on these networks.
Protect your e-identity
Be cautious when giving out personal information such as your name, address, phone number or financial information on the Internet. Make sure that websites are secure (e.g. when making online purchases or online banking) or that you’ve enabled privacy settings (e.g. when accessing/using social networking sites). A shopping, banking, or any other website that requires your sensitive information should begin with “https:” (i.e. https://www.yourbank.com). The “s” stands for secure and should appear when you are in an area requesting you to login or provide other sensitive data. Another sign that you have a secure connection is the small lock icon in the bottom of your Web browser (usually the right-hand corner).
Avoid being scammed
Always think before you click on a link or file of unknown origin. Don’t click on the links in these messages as they may take you to a fraudulent, malicious websites and don’t feel pressured by any emails. Check the source of the message. Legitimate companies will not use email messages to ask for your personal information. If in any doubt, verify the source (e.g. contact the company by phone). Never reply to emails that ask you to verify your information or confirm your user ID or password.
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short video clips on how you can protect yourself from becoming a cyber victim.