Top Tips For Keeping Safe When Using The Internet

Online spaces are full of opportunities but along with all the benefits come risks that could

compromise your personal information or privacy.

From hackers trying to steal your data to shady websites that want to scam you, it's crucial to know how to protect yourself. Luckily, making a few simple changes to your online habits can drastically reduce the chances of falling victim to these threats.

Use Strong Passwords: A weak password, like “123456” or your pet’s name, leaves you vulnerable to hackers. You should always aim to create complex passwords with a mix of letters, numbers and symbols. A password manager can help by securely storing your login details and even generating complex passwords for you, so you’ll never have to worry about remembering dozens of unique passwords for your accounts. Multi-factor authentication also adds another layer of security when accessing your personal accounts.

Enable Privacy Settings: Your social media accounts and other online platforms often come with privacy settings that let you control who sees your information. Many people overlook these settings, leaving personal details exposed to anyone who might be interested. Take the time to review and adjust your privacy settings so only the people you trust have access to what you share.

Be Careful of Downloads: Downloading files from the internet can seem harmless, but it can expose your device to dangerous malware. Before downloading anything, make sure it’s from a trusted source. For example, official app stores or well-known websites are generally safe, but even these can sometimes be compromised. Always read reviews and check ratings before installing an app or opening a file. If you’re not sure about a file, it’s best to skip it.

Use a Secure Connection: Whenever possible, make sure you're connected to a secure network. Public Wi-Fi, such as in coffee shops or airports, can be risky because hackers can easily intercept data being transmitted over these networks. If you have to use public Wi-Fi, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) which creates a secure connection to the internet, making it much harder for others to see what you’re doing online. Additionally, always check for the little padlock symbol in the address bar when visiting websites,

which indicates that your connection is encrypted and secure.

Finally, if you experience fraud related to any online activity, it’s important to report it to the Federal Trade Commission or your home country's authorities.