Staying safe online is crucial in today’s digital age. Here are nine tips to help you stay safe online:
- Passwords: Use strong, unique passwords for all your online accounts, and do not share them with anyone.
- Phishing e-mails: Beware of ‘phishing’ e-mail scams where attackers pretend to be reputable companies to steal your sensitive data or money. Do Not Call or Click on links in phishing e-mails.
- Fake Tech Support Scams: If your computer shows a double layer pop-up that scares you into calling for Windows tech support, do not call and do not let the scammer into your computer!! Sometimes there is a beeping or siren sound or a woman talking. The scammer wants to put snooping malware on your computer and asks you for payment. By using CTRL – ALT – DEL to access task manager and click on END TASK on your browser, you close the pop-up without any damage done.
- Security software: Use anti-malware / antivirus software and keep them activated and up to date to protect against malware and viruses. I recommend Emsisoft anti-malware software and Malwarebytes Browser Guard extension for protection.
- Wi-Fi: Avoid using open, unsecured public Wi-Fi to access sensitive information such as online banking and shopping.
- Software updates: Keep your devices up to date with the latest security patches and software updates to stay protected against known vulnerabilities.
- Two-factor Authentication (2FA or MFA): Use two-factor authentication whenever possible to add an extra layer of security to your accounts. Two-factor authentication asks you to enter a code sent to your text or e-mail to verify that it is you signing in.
- Facebook: Be cautious about what you share on social media and only accept friend requests from people you know. Do not accept friend requests if they are already friends (this is a common scam looking to gain access to your friends list). Notify your friend that their Facebook account may have been hacked, if you receive a bogus friend request from them.
- Credit Bureaus: Regularly check your financial statements (banks and credit cards) and monitor your credit score to detect any suspicious activity. If you have been hacked, put a lock on your credit bureau accounts to prevent scammers from using your credit for their purposes. Do not fall for e-mails that pretend to be from credit bureaus; go to the site directly.
By following these tips, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself and your personal information online.
I believe in making your computers easier and safer to use at an affordable price. Thank you for trusting me to keep your computers healthy.
Contact us at 239-567-0104 to renew your protection software, join our Loving Your Computer training, get advice about replacing an older computer, selecting and installing a new computer, or schedule computer and printer help. Wishing you a safe online experience.
Be well.
By Linda Lindquist, October 21, 2024
