Top Cyber Crime Prevention Tips

Top Cyber Crime Prevention Tips Use Strong
Passwords for different user ID / password
combinations for different accounts and avoid
writing them down. Make the passwords more
complicated by combining letters, numbers, special
characters (minimum 10 characters in total) and
change them on a regular basis. Secure your
computer Activate your firewall Firewalls are the
first line of cyber defense; they block connections
to unknown or bogus sites and will keep out some
types of viruses and hackers. Use anti-virus/
malware software Prevent viruses from infecting
your computer by installing and regularly updating
anti-virus software. Block spyware attacks Prevent
spyware from infiltrating your computer by
installing and updating anti-spyware software. Be
Social-Media Savvy Make sure your social
networking profiles (e.g. Facebook, Twitter,
Youtube, MSN, etc.) are set to private. Check your
security settings. Be careful what information you
post online. Once it is on the Internet, it is there
forever! Secure your Mobile Devices Be aware that
your mobile device is vulnerable to viruses and
hackers. Download applications from trusted
sources. Install the latest operating system
updates Keep your applications and operating
system (e.g. Windows, Mac, Linux) current with the
latest system updates. Turn on automatic updates
to prevent potential attacks on older software.
Protect your Data Use encryption for your most
sensitive files such as tax returns or financial
records, make regular back-ups of all your
important data, and store it in another location.
Secure your wireless network Wi-Fi (wireless)
networks at home are vulnerable to intrusion if
they are not properly secured. Review and modify
default settings. Public Wi-Fi, a.k.a. “Hot Spots”,
are also vulnerable. Avoid conducting financial or
corporate transactions on these networks. Protect
your e-identity Be cautious when giving out
personal information such as your name, address,
phone number or financial information on the
Internet. Make sure that websites are secure (e.g.
when making online purchases) or that you’ve
enabled privacy settings (e.g. when accessing/
using social networking sites). Avoid being
scammed Always think before you click on a link or
file of unknown origin. Don’t feel pressured by any
emails. Check the source of the message. When in
doubt, verify the source. Never reply to emails that
ask you to verify your information or confirm your
user ID or password. Call the right person for help
Don’t panic! If you are a victim, if you encounter
illegal Internet content (e.g. child exploitation) or if
you suspect a computer crime, identity theft or a
commercial scam, report this to your local police.
If you need help with maintenance or software
installation on your computer, consult with your
service provider or a certified computer technician.