Solidifying Website and Email Security
It can be difficult to know if you're doing all you can to protect yourself and your family against fraud and identity theft. The amount of information about the potential hazards of using the web and email can be overwhelming. The key is to keep in mind a few essential safety rules that will steer you clear of scammers and identity thieves. Here, we've taken care of the work for you. Take a moment to read over the helpful tips we've provided to improve your online safety.
Your Computer
- Update Automatically. Most commercial operating systems (OS) will allow you to download and install security updates automatically. It only takes a second and will make sure your computer has important patches and fixes that your schedule might cause you to overlook. If you're not sure how to tell your OS to automatically update, visit the help section of the publisher's website.
- Protect Your System. Some of the most serious identity risks come from hacks to your computer in the form of viruses and spyware that record personal information and send it back to their sources. You can easily prevent them from being downloaded, or catch them if they already have been, by installing and maintaining a virus scanner and spyware removal tool. If you don't already have one, you should invest in one as soon as possible and conduct a full system scan for both issues.
Internet Browsing
- Say No to Pop-Ups. Sometimes, pop-up advertisements are harmless. But other times, they are the products of malicious software on your computer or scammers trying to obtain your personal information. Installing a pop-up blocker or activating the one built into your web browser is the best way to avoid this problem. If you're not sure how to activate your built-in pop-up blocker, or if you are not sure if you have one, visit the website for the brand of Internet browser you regularly use. Common browsers are Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, and Safari.
- Check for Secure Sites. Be aware when shopping or banking online. Never give out any personal information unless you're absolutely confident in the security of the site and the honesty of the company receiving it. You can learn how to check for secure websites by visiting our page on Recognizing Identity Theft Techniques.
Email Security
- Don't Trust Everyone. No trustworthy source will ever ask for your personal information via email. Even emails bearing the logo of your bank or other financial institution can be attempts at fraud. If you receive a request for bank information, credit card information, or your Social Security number, check the sender's email address, and read the included text carefully for red flags. If you feel an email you've received is an attempt at fraud, do NOT reply to it or click on any links contained in the message.
- Be Careful with Attachments. Any attached items from someone you don't know, no matter how innocent they may seem, could contain viruses or spyware. Make sure you're confident in the sender of the item before downloading it. Once it's on your computer, scan it with your virus scanner to be absolutely sure before opening it.
Want to know more about keeping your online experience safe? We can help. Take a look at our 7 Identity Theft Prevention Tips Every Consumer Should Know for more safety advice.
