Internet Safety Review

I Have to Provide My Phone Number? Using Phone Verification

A process that involves two authentication methods performed one after the other to verify that someone or something requesting access is who or what they are declared to be.

What are COOKIES?

A small piece of data sent from a website and stored on the user's computer by the user's web browser.

Why do I need strong passwords

A strong password is one of the best to defend your accounts and private information from hackers.

Examples of misleading links concealing malware downloads:

Ads that look like system messages or diagnostic warnings Ads that look like you've won a prize Pop-up windows Anything that ask you to download something Headlines such as clickbait

Trust your instincts

Always save records of your online practice using common sense. If it seems too good to be true or it seems suspicious, don't purchase it.

Keep a record

Always save records of your online transactions: receipt, order number, product description, and price. Also, save all emails you receive.

Identify suspicious sites

Ask your friends Search for information about the site Check the address bar in your browser Run a Google safe browsing diagnostic on the site

Shop from home

Avoid shopping when connected to a public Wi-Fi network or when using a public computer.

Research the company or seller

Before buying from the site, research the company. Make sure the business has a physical address and phone number you can contact if there's a problem.

How do cookies work?

Cookies can store specific information on the websites you visit and the things you click on different sites.

Use secure payment methods.

Credit cards are generally the safest way to pay for items online. Avoid direct wire transfers, bank transfers, or sending cash or checks through the mail.

Tips for staying safe

Do not dial while driving or look up phone numbers If you must answer a call while driving, make sure your phone is within arm's reach. Otherwise, safely pull over or let the call go to voicemail. Use a hands-free device that will allow you to keep both hands on the wheel. Get off the phone when driving in hazardous conditions. You should never text, browse online, or watch videos while driving. No matter how scenic or fascinating a view is, you should never attempt to take a photo or video with your mobile device while driving.

Check the web address

Double check the domain name to make sure it's a real, trusted site

Home Wi-Fi Security

Limit your signal strength so it cannot be detected beyond the boundaries of your home. Disable SSID broadcasting so your network is not visible to other wireless users within its signal range.

Public Wi-Fi Safety Tips

Make sure you are on a legitimate network. Protect your computer by making sure your firewall is turned on and your antivirus software is up to date. Do not conduct financial transactions like banking or shopping with a credit card while using public hotspots.

Look for HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol)

Many websites will display a lock symbol which means the website is using an HTTPS connection, which makes it safe to enter your information.

Avoid suspicious links

Most malware requires you to click something to download and install it. These links are often disguised as something they are not. If you are aware of what suspicious links can look like, you can avoid them.

Tips for creating strong passwords

Never use personal information Use a longer password Don't use the same password for each account Try to include numbers, symbols, and both uppercase and lowercase letters Avoid using words that can be found in the dictionary Random password are the strongest

Using password managers

Password managers can remember and enter your password on different websites, which means you won't have to remember longer passwords. Examples: LastPass, 1 Password

Phishing

Phishing scams are messages that try to trick you into providing sensitive information. Usually are sent from banks or other trusted sources, and usually want you to re-enter a password, verify a birth , or confirm a credit card number. Avoid clicking on links Check the subject line for scare tactics

Other Common Email Scams

Scams that promise to give you a lot of money if you send money upfront. Always trust your best judgement--never send money because you received an email request and never download email attachments you weren't expecting.

Backup your files

Some malware can delete or corrupt data on your drives. Preparing for the possibility of data loss is much easier and cheaper than attempting to recover data after a malware attack. Do this by copying your data to an external drive and using an online backup service.

How to Avoid Cookie Tracking

Some websites give you the option to disable cookie tracking on their sit You can enable the "Do Not Track" setting in your browser

Look at the Security symbol

Some websites have a lock symbol in the address bar which means the website is using an HTTPS connection. This connection makes it safe to enter your personal information.

Turning off email images

Spam messages often contain images that the sender can track. Opening the email lets spammers know that your email works which could result in more spam. Avoid this by turning off email images.

Social Media Privacy Basics

T-H-I-N-K Before you share: is it true, is it helpful, is it inspiring, is it Necessary, is it kind Review your Privacy Settings to make sure your accounts aren't public

Driving Safely with Mobile Devices

The best way to stay safe is to avoid using a mobile device entirely while driving.

Spam filters

These are used to place suspicious emails into spam folders so you don't accidentally open them when checking your email.

Why do websites track browsing activity?

To make your browsing experience faster and more convenient. To determine your browsing habits and preferences which can be used by advertisers in determining what ads to show you online.

Secure your computer

You can protect your computer by running antivirus and antimalware software like Bitdefender or Norton. Keeping your OS, browser, and other programs updated is an important step in protecting your computer. The security patches in these updates make your computer immune to many threats.

Update your browser regularly

Your browser will usually notify you when it has an update available, but you always have the option to update manually.