Tips on How to Use the Internet Safely

Avoid Phishing Scams
Phishing is a common form of email scam involving an attempt to gain your credit card number, bank account numbers or other personal information. An email, with a link directing you to a fake website that looks very similar to your bank's website, or PayPal or another site with access to valuable information, will ask you to log in to your account, often claiming there is a problem with the account. By logging in, you provide the thief with your password. These fake pages may also contain viruses or malware that will attempt to install themselves on your computer. Examine all email carefully. Phishing messages often look unprofessional, contain typographical errors and may not have the correct company logos. Do not click the links in these emails. Always log in to your accounts by typing the URL into your browser's address bar, never by clicking an email link. If you have questions about one of your accounts, contact the business directly.

Surf the Web Safely
Don't randomly click any link you find in a discussion group, unless you know you can trust the person who posted it. If you are not sure of the link, move your cursor over the link. The target address is displayed at the bottom of your browser. If this link doesn't match what was posted, don't click it. Also, do not trust shortened hyperlinks such as the ones generated by Bit.ly or TinyURL unless you know the person who posted it or sent it to you. There is no way to tell where these links will take you until you click them. It's the Internet equivalent of flying blind. Do not download pirated software or movies. Not only is this illegal, but many times these files contain viruses.

Chat with Caution
Online chat has become a very easy way for people to communicate and stay in touch, particularly for children and teens. There's no way, however, to tell who you're chatting with; everyone is simply a user name and perhaps an avatar. Children might not always be chatting with other children, but instead, unwittingly chatting with adult predators. Counsel children never to give out any personal information, such as their name and address. Monitor your children's computer habits. Many operating systems now include parental control options allowing you to limit online chat, block websites and generate reports detailing children's online activity.

Protect Your Computer
Make sure that your operating system and browser are up-to-date with the most recent patches. Software developers are aware of hackers' constant efforts to find the security flaws in their software and provide regular updates to fight this problem. Install anti-virus software on your computer to help protect against viruses and malware, and perform regular scans. Also, install a firewall on your system to prevent hackers from remotely accessing your computer. Current operating systems come with built-in software firewalls. However, hardware firewalls, such as routers, provide more protection. Without a firewall, thieves have an open door into your computer. A firewall is like putting a padlock on that door.

Select Safe Passwords
Select passwords that are not easy to guess. Don't use your pet's name or your birthday. Select alphanumeric passwords that mix upper- and lower-case letters. Avoid using the same password for every site you log in to, and never give your passwords to anyone. Remember, these passwords are protecting your personal information.
                                                 
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