How Do You Stay Safe on the Internet?

There’s an endless amount of information on the internet, and it can be hard to tell which content is safe for you. The good news is that there are a few simple steps you can take to stay safe online, no matter what age group or life stage you’re in.

1. Use a strong password

There are many ways cybercriminals can steal your sensitive information, but one of the most common is by hacking into accounts using your password. This is why it’s important to make sure all your devices and accounts have strong passwords and to change them regularly.

2. Avoid public Wi-Fi

Using public Wi-Fi is a major source of internet security threats, as it’s unsecured and can allow anyone nearby to see what you’re doing on your device. This is especially dangerous if you’re using it to log into your banking or other key accounts.

3. Avoid clicking on malicious links and attachments

Malicious links are the number one way for cybercriminals to gain access to your personal details. These can be sent via email, Twitter or social media posts, so it’s vital to stay on the lookout for these and ensure you’re not sharing information that could be used to scam others.

4. Be cautious about websites that ask for your credit card or other sensitive information

When you’re shopping or using a website to enter your financial details, always check the address to make sure it starts with “https.” This means the site is secure and uses encryption to scramble your data so that it can’t be read by criminals.

5. Be wary of phishing emails and fake offers

There are several types of ‘phishing’ attacks, which involve sending a message posing as a legitimate company to try to get you to reveal your details. These can be in the form of spam emails, phony ‘free’ offers or click bait.

6. Never share your personal information on the internet

Leaving your phone, tablet or computer unattended when you’re on the go is another big source of security threats. This is especially true if you’re using a public network like a cafe or library.

7. Install a VPN to encrypt your connection and protect your privacy

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates a secure, encrypted network between you and the internet. It can be a lot safer to use public Wi-Fi with a VPN, but it’s still best to avoid it when possible, and only use it if you really need to.

8. Keep your child safe while they’re on the internet

The internet is a great place to learn and stay entertained, but it’s also a prime target for predators and hackers. The good news is that there are lots of resources out there to help keep children safe, including content filters and parental controls on search engines and on cell phones.

9. Teach kids about their digital footprint

Kids are often the first to share their personal information online, so it’s important to teach them about their digital footprint and how to keep it safe. Together, you can look at the information that’s available about them, and talk about how it might affect them later in life.