Reduce Your Risk: Cybersecurity Tips

The internet offers an easy way for users to stay connected with loved ones and is a convenient tool for online transactions; however, many of the crimes that can occur in real life can also happen on the internet including credit card fraud and identity theft. Our growing use of technology, coupled with increasing cyber threats and risks to our privacy, demand greater security in our online world.

Online Safety

When creating online accounts, avoid using the same password more than once. Create passwords with eight characters or more and be sure each one uses a combination of numbers, letters, and symbols. You should also avoid opening attachments, clicking on links, or responding to text or email messages from unknown senders or companies that ask for your personal information such as your full name, telephone number, address, social security number or credit card information.

Be very careful with what you do on public unsecured Wi-Fi network. If you’re on a mobile device, don’t assume that your apps are automatically secure or use a secured internet protocol. It’s best to save that Internet banking session for when you’re able to connect via cellular data, or on a secure network.

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Safety For Children

Most children use the internet at home and on their mobile devices for several reasons including research for school assignments, contacting their teachers and other students, playing interactive games or to access social media sites. Each time children get online they can be exposed to various safety concerns but there are some basic tips to reduce their risk online.

Keep desktop computers in a high-traffic area of your home and establish limits for which online sites children can visit and the amount of time they can spend on each site. It is also best to periodically surf the internet with your children to see what they like to do online. Always know who is connecting with your children online and educate yourself about social media safety. Finally, have open discussions with your children about long-term effects of inappropriate conduct including posting photos and online bullying.