As we continue to be more connected online through social networks and mobile phones, the dangers of not maintaining personal online security continue to increase. As businesses, schools, and households move toward digital storage of important documents and personal mementos, we need to plan accordingly to keep our privacy safe. There are a number of ways to help maintain your cyber security and help keep your family safe online:
Don’t use the same password for all your online accounts.
Protect your personal information by creating unique passwords that have a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters with numbers and symbols.
Don’t click unsafe links.
Clicking links in emails, tweets, posts, and online advertising is a way for cyber criminals to compromise your computer. Be aware of anything that sounds, “too good to be true” and avoid it.
Connect to secure Wi-Fi
Setting up a password-protected private wireless network will limit who can access your network. Avoid using public Wi-Fi hotspots that don’t require a password or some level of authentication. Many public Wi-Fi networks are not encrypted and can put your information at risk.
Keep your software up-to-date.
Keeping your computer’s security software, hardware, and browsers current can help ward off unwanted cyber threats. That includes downloading and updating your antivirus software. It’s the first step in ensuring security online by detecting and cleaning any virus from your computer. Consider purchasing Norton 360, McAfee’s Antivirus Plus or download free antivirus protection from AVG.
Protect your wallet
Shopping and banking online have become somewhat routine for many. But be aware of the sites where you share your personal information. Do they have “https:” (“S” as in “secure”) in the web address and a “lock” symbol after the address? If so, you’ are likely conducting a transaction on a secure and reputable website.
You can learn more about information security and keeping your identity safe online through our Cyber Crime & Security: How to Better Protect Your Computer infographic. If you’re really interested in cyber security, check out our information security degree, which provides the necessary and tactical skills needed for a career in the information security field.