5 Ways to Stay Safe Online

1- Keep your computers and mobile devices up to date

The latest security software, web browsers, and operating systems provide the best protection against viruses, malware, and other online threats. Turn on automatic updates to get when the latest fixes are available.

2- Set strong passwords

Strong passwords can be at least 8 characters and are a mixture of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.

3- Watch out for phishing scams

Phishing scams use fraudulent emails and websites to trick users into disclosing private account or login information. Do not click on links or open any attachments or popup screens from sources you are not familiar with. Forward phishing emails to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at spam@uce.gov – and to the company, bank, or organization impersonated in the email.

4- Secure your internet connection

Always password protect your wireless home network. When connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, pay attention to the information you send through them.

5- Keep personal information personal

Hackers can use social media profiles to find passwords and use password reset tools to answer these security questions. Lock your privacy settings to prevent posting birthdays, addresses, mother's maiden names, etc. Beware of connection requests from strangers.