Today’s technology creates more opportunity for your personal information to end up in the wrong hands, which can lead to fraud and even identity theft. To guard against this, use the following tips to help protect your information in cyberspace.
How to Protect Your Computer:
Beware of malware and “phishing” schemes. Do not click on links or open attachments that appear suspicious. Delete these communications, even if they appear to be from a friend or trusted source since hackers may gain access to those sources’ email and social media accounts.
Never allow remote access to strangers. Know that technical support companies will not call you if there is a problem with your device.
Consider increasing the security and privacy settings of your operating system and your Internet browser. Adjust your browser to at least the “medium” security setting.
Install a “pop-up blocker” to help avoid seeing and clicking on pop-up advertisements and messages. If you do view a suspicious pop-up advertisement, only select the “X” box to close it. (Don’t click on links within the pop-up ad.)
Install and maintain an anti-virus and an anti-spyware program. If available, opt to have the programs update automatically. Having the latest and most up-to-date versions will help maximize the programs’ effectiveness against new viruses.
Install updates to programs, such as the computer’s operating system and the Internet browser. This will ensure that any security protections are loaded. Again, opt to have these programs update automatically, if available.
How to Use Free, Public Wi-Fi Safely:
Before connecting to public Wi-Fi, ask the business or facility the name of the official Wi-Fi network. Avoid other networks, because they may be hosted by cybercriminals.
Assume everyone can see what you’re doing when connected to public Wi-Fi. Do not provide personal information or type in passwords when on an unsecured public Wi-Fi network.
How to Secure Your Home Network:
Set and use a password on your home network’s wireless router.
Use a firewall to protect what information comes in and goes out of your home network.
Enable encryption, which scrambles data into an unreadable format.
What to Consider Anytime You’re Connected:
Establish a complex, unique password for each online account you access. Do not use easy-to-guess passwords, such as your birthdate or name. Consider using a unique combination of upper and lower case letters and random numbers. Include special characters such as an asterisk (*) or ampersand (&).
Use secure websites whenever you need to type personal information or conduct financial transactions. While every website begins with an “http” prefix, look for websites that use “https” and/or a lock symbol to help ensure a website has security features.
Most Internet browsers have a private browsing option. Consider using this feature if you are concerned about your privacy and security.
source: http://www.ohioattorneygeneral.gov/Individuals-and-Families/Consumers/Cyber-Safety/Cybersecurity