Security Tips

Keep a clean machine

Keep security software current: Having the latest security software, web browser and operating system is the best defense against viruses, malware and other online threats.
Automate software and system updates: Many software programs and operating systems will automatically connect and update to defend against known risks. Turn on automatic updates if that’s an available option.
Protect all devices that connect to the internet: This includes computers, smartphones, gaming systems and other web-enabled devices.
Plug & scan: USBs and other external devices can be infected by viruses and malware. Use your security software to scan them.
Delete when done: Many of us download apps for specific purposes, such as planning vacations, and no longer need them afterwards. It’s a good security practice to delete all apps you no longer use.
Back it up: Protect your valuable work, music, photos and other digital information by making an electronic copy and storing it safely.

Connect with care

Get savvy about Wi-Fi hotspots: Public wireless networks and hotspots are not secure, which means that anyone could potentially see what you are doing on your laptop or smartphone while you are connected to them. Limit what you do on public WiFi, and avoid logging in to key accounts like email and financial services. Consider using a virtual private network (VPN) or a personal/mobile hotspot if you need a more secure connection.
Now you see me, now you don’t: Some stores and other locations look for devices with WiFi or Bluetooth turned on to track your movements while you are within range. Disable WiFi and Bluetooth when not in use.
Protect your $: When banking and shopping, check to be sure the site is security enabled. Look for web addresses with “https://” which means the site takes extra measures to help secure your information. “Http://” is not secure.
Think before you act: Be wary of communications that implore you to act immediately, offer something that sounds too good to be true or ask for personal information.
When in doubt, throw it out: Links in emails, social media posts and online advertising are often how cybercriminals try to steal your personal information. Even if you know the source, if something looks suspicious, delete it.

Secure Key Accounts and Protect Your Personal Information

Lock down your login: Fortify your online accounts by enabling the strongest authentication tools available. This means taking advantage of multi-factor authentication when available.
Make your password a sentence: A strong password is a sentence that is at least 12 characters long. Focus on positive sentences or phrases that you like to think about and are easy to remember (for example, “I love country mu$ic.”). On many sites, you can even use spaces!
Unique account, unique password: Having separate passwords for every account helps to thwart cybercriminals. At a minimum, separate your work and personal accounts and make sure that your critical accounts have the strongest passwords.
Write it down and keep it safe: Everyone can forget a password. Keep a list that’s stored in a safe, secure place away from your computer. You can alternatively use a service like a password manager to keep track of your passwords.
Secure your devices: Use strong passwords, passcodes or other features such as touch identification to lock your devices. Securing your device can help protect your information if your device is lost or stolen and keep prying eyes out.
Personal information is like money – Value it. Protect it: Information about you, such as the games you like to play, what you search for online and where you shop and live, has value – just like money. Be thoughtful about who gets that information and how it’s collected through apps and websites.
Own your online presence: Use security and privacy settings on websites and apps to manage what is shared about you and who sees it.
When in doubt, don’t respond: Fraudulent text messages, calls and voicemails are on the rise. Just as with email, mobile requests for personal data or immediate action are almost always scams.