Security & Safety Resource Center

Love a good bargain? We all do! But when shopping online, be cautious of those too-good-to-be-true deals. Scammers are lurking, ready to snatch up your credit card information.

Before you hit that “Buy Now” button, do your research. Here’s how to spot fake online sellers:

• Check the Website: Does the website look legit? Look for typos, poor design, or suspicious URLs.
• Read the Reviews: Check customer reviews to see what other people have experienced. Fake sellers often have few or no reviews.
• Verify Contact Information: Try to contact the seller through a different channel, like phone or email. If they’re hard to reach, it might be a red flag.
• Secure Payment Methods: Always look for the padlock symbol in your browser’s address bar before entering payment information. This indicates a secure connection.

Remember, a little extra caution can go a long way. By taking these steps, you can protect yourself from online scams and enjoy a safe shopping experience.

Looking for a new job? The internet is a great place to start, but beware of those too-good-to-be-true offers. Scammers are always on the lookout for unsuspecting job seekers.

Here are some red flags to watch out for:

• Upfront Payments: If a job asks you to pay for anything, like application fees or equipment, it’s likely a scam. Legitimate companies don’t make you pay to work for them.
• Work-From-Home Wonders: Be cautious of job offers that promise easy money for working from home. These often turn out to be scams.
• Overly Vague Job Descriptions: If a job posting is super vague about the actual work you’ll be doing, that’s a red flag.
• Urgent Hiring: Scammers often create a sense of urgency to pressure you into making quick decisions.

So, how can you protect yourself?

• Research the Company: Before applying for a job, research the company online. Check for reviews and see if they’re a legitimate business.
• Verify Contact Information: If a job offer seems suspicious, try to verify the company’s contact information through an independent source.
• Be Wary of Personal Information: Never share your Social Security number, bank account information, or other personal details with a company you don’t know well.
• Trust Your Gut: If something feels off, it probably is. Don’t be afraid to walk away from a job opportunity that seems too good to be true.

Remember, job hunting can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be risky. By being aware of common scams and taking some simple precautions, you can protect yourself from fraudsters.

Social media is supposed to be fun, but sometimes it can turn into a toxic place. If you or someone you know is being harassed, threatened, or bullied online, don’t ignore it.

Here’s what you can do:

• Report the Behavior: Most social media platforms have tools to report harassment and abuse. Use them! Blocking the offender is often the first step.
• Save the Evidence: Screenshots of harassing messages, posts, or profiles can be helpful when reporting the issue.
• Contact the Platform: If the problem persists, reach out to the social media platform’s customer support for additional assistance.
• Involve Law Enforcement: For severe cases of cyberbullying or harassment, consider contacting your local law enforcement agency. They can provide guidance and support.
• Limit Personal Information: Be mindful of what you share online. The less information available, the harder it is for bullies to target you.

Remember, you don’t have to deal with online harassment alone. There are resources available to help you.

Remember that time you forgot your email password for the fifth time this month? Or maybe you’re guilty of using the same password for everything, hoping no one notices? It’s time to ditch those risky habits and embrace the power of password managers.

These digital vaults are like super-smart safes for your online life. You only need to remember one strong master password to unlock a world of secure logins. It’s like having a personal assistant who remembers all your crazy password combinations.

Here’s why password managers are a game-changer:

• Stronger Passwords: They generate complex, random passwords that are nearly impossible for hackers to crack.
• Time Saver: No more struggling to remember endless passwords. Your password manager does the work for you.
• Centralized Security: All your passwords are stored in one secure place, making it easier to manage and protect.
• Autofill Magic: Most password managers offer autofill, so you don’t even have to type your passwords manually.

But remember, the security of your password manager depends on your master password. Make it super strong and keep it safe.

Thinking of jailbreaking your iPhone to unlock extra features and customization options? Hold on a sec! While it might sound tempting, jailbreaking can actually open a Pandora’s box of security woes.

Here’s why jailbreaking your iPhone might not be the best idea:

• Goodbye Warranty: Jailbreaking voids your iPhone’s warranty. So, if anything goes wrong with your phone after the jailbreak, you’re on your own. Apple won’t repair it for free.
• Hello Hackers: Jailbreaking weakens your iPhone’s security. Hackers love exploiting these weaknesses to steal your information, install malware, or even take control of your phone entirely.
• Virus Vulnerability: Apps from outside the App Store, which become accessible through jailbreaking, aren’t reviewed by Apple for security. This means you’re more likely to download apps filled with malware.

Here’s the good news: There are plenty of safe and secure ways to customize your iPhone and access great features without compromising your security.

• Explore Official App Store: The App Store has a wide variety of awesome apps these days. Take some time to explore and see what you can find within the safe confines of the official store.
• Consider Alternatives: If there’s a specific feature you’re looking for, there might be a legit and secure app that already offers it. Do some research and see what safe options exist.
• Wait for Updates: Apple is constantly improving iOS and adding new features. Be patient and wait for official updates from Apple itself, which will enhance your iPhone experience without sacrificing security.

Is a little extra customization worth putting your entire phone at risk? Probably not. Stick with safe and secure methods to keep your iPhone running smoothly and your data protected.

Hot concert tickets? Sold out sporting events? We know you want to be there. But beware of those too-good-to-be-true ticket deals online. Scammers love to prey on eager fans.

They create fake websites or post on social media pretending to sell tickets at a fraction of the price. Once you pay, you never receive the tickets, and you might even lose your money.

To protect yourself from ticket scams:

• Stick to Reputable Sellers: Buy tickets from official sources or trusted ticket marketplaces.
• Beware of Social Media Scams: Be cautious of ticket offers on social media platforms. Verify the seller’s legitimacy before proceeding.
• Check for Secure Websites: Look for the padlock symbol in your browser’s address bar before entering payment information.
• Use Credit Cards: Credit cards offer more protection against fraud than debit cards.
• Don’t Click Suspicious Links: Avoid clicking on links in emails or text messages that promise cheap tickets.

Remember, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Protect yourself and your money by being cautious when buying tickets online.

Using the same password for every online account is like using the same key for your house, car, and office. It’s just asking for trouble.

Imagine if a hacker figured out your password for one account. With that, they could potentially unlock all your other accounts – your email, bank, social media, and more. It’s like handing them a master key to your digital life.

So, how do you avoid being a password repeat offender?

• Mix It Up: Create unique passwords for each of your online accounts. It might seem like a lot to remember, but it’s worth it.
• Get Creative: Make your passwords strong and hard to guess. A mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols is a good start.
• Password Managers: Consider using a password manager to store your complex passwords securely. These tools can generate strong passwords and autofill them for you.

Remember, strong passwords are your first line of defense against hackers. Take the time to create unique passwords for each of your accounts and enjoy peace of mind.

We all love a good binge-watching session, but there’s a right way and a wrong way to do it. Free streaming sites might seem like a dream come true, but they often come with a hefty price tag – your privacy and security.

These illegal streaming sites are like shady back alleys of the internet. They’re full of malware, viruses, and other nasty stuff. Even if you’re careful not to click on anything, your computer could still get infected. Plus, you’re supporting illegal activities by using these sites.

So, what’s the better option?

• Legitimate Streaming Services: Pay for a subscription to a reputable streaming service. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind and to support the creators of your favorite shows.
• Be Wary of Free Trials: Some services offer free trials, but be careful about signing up. Read the terms and conditions carefully, and make sure you know how to cancel before the trial ends.
• Protect Your Devices: Keep your computer and devices up-to-date with the latest security software. This can help protect you from malware.
• Beware of Pop-ups: If you accidentally land on a shady website, close the window immediately and don’t click on any pop-ups.

Remember, free streaming isn’t always free. In the long run, it’s better to pay for a legal streaming service and protect yourself from potential cyber threats.

Shortened links are like tiny, mysterious packages. You don’t know what’s inside until you open them. And just like in real life, some packages contain surprises you don’t want.

Cybercriminals love using shortened links to hide malicious websites. These links can take you to places you don’t want to go, like sites that steal your information or infect your computer with malware.

So, how can you stay safe?

• Think Before You Click: If you see a shortened link and you’re not sure where it leads, don’t click it.
• Check the Link: Most browsers allow you to hover over a link to see the full URL without clicking it. This can help you determine if the link is safe.
• Use a Link Checker: There are online tools that can help you check the safety of shortened links.
• Be Wary of Urgent Messages: If you receive an email or text with a shortened link that creates a sense of urgency, be extra cautious.

Remember, curiosity killed the cat. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to clicking on links.

Free Wi-Fi is tempting, but it’s like leaving your front door unlocked. Public Wi-Fi networks are basically open houses for hackers. They can easily eavesdrop on your online activities and steal your personal information.

Imagine having a conversation in a crowded room, knowing anyone could be listening in. That’s basically what using public Wi-Fi is like. Hackers can grab your credit card information, passwords, and even your emails.

So, how can you stay safe?

• Stick to Your Own Network: Whenever possible, use your home Wi-Fi or your phone’s hotspot. These networks are more secure.
• VPN is Your Friend: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates a secure tunnel between your device and the internet, protecting your data from prying eyes.
• Be Careful What You Share: Avoid accessing sensitive information, like online banking or shopping, on public Wi-Fi.
• Look for the Lock: If you must use public Wi-Fi, make sure the network is secured with WPA2 or WPA3 encryption.

Remember, a little extra caution goes a long way. By following these tips, you can enjoy the convenience of public Wi-Fi without putting your personal information at risk.

Using the same password for everything is like using the same key for your house, car, and office. It’s just asking for trouble.

Imagine if a hacker figured out your password for one account. With that, they could potentially unlock all your other accounts – your email, bank, social media, and more. It’s like handing them a master key to your digital life.

So, how do you avoid being a password repeat offender?

• Mix It Up: Create unique passwords for each of your online accounts. It might seem like a lot to remember, but it’s worth it.
• Get Creative: Make your passwords strong and hard to guess. A mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols is a good start.
• Password Managers: Consider using a password manager to store your complex passwords securely. These tools can generate strong passwords and autofill them for you.

Remember, strong passwords are your first line of defense against hackers. Take the time to create unique passwords for each of your accounts and enjoy peace of mind.

Online shopping is super convenient, but saving your credit card information for faster checkouts might be a risky move.

Think of it this way: every time you save your card details, you’re leaving your digital wallet open for anyone who manages to break into that website. Hackers love easy targets, and your saved card info is like a golden ticket for them.

So, what can you do to protect yourself?

• Manual Checkouts Only: It might take a little longer, but typing in your card details every time is worth the extra effort.
• Strong Passwords: Make sure you use strong, unique passwords for all your online accounts. This makes it harder for hackers to access your information.
• Keep an Eye on Your Statements: Regularly check your credit card statements for any suspicious activity. This can help you catch fraud early.
• Beware of Phishing Scams: Be cautious of emails or websites asking for your personal or financial information. These could be scams designed to steal your identity.

Remember, a little extra effort now can save you a lot of headaches later. By taking these simple steps, you can protect your credit card information and enjoy a safer online shopping experience.

Your smartphone is packed with apps, from games to shopping to social media. But have you ever wondered what those apps are really doing? Some of them might be collecting more information than you realize.

Think of your phone as a house. Each app is like a guest. Some guests are polite and only use what they need. Others are nosy, snooping around and taking things without asking.

Here’s how to keep your digital house in order:

• Check Your App Permissions: Every app asks for permissions when you install it. Things like accessing your location, contacts, or camera. Review these carefully. If an app wants permission to access your entire contact list just to play a game, that’s probably a red flag.
• Limit Background Activity: Some apps keep running in the background, even when you’re not using them. This can drain your battery and potentially collect data. Check your phone’s settings to see which apps can run in the background and limit it to the ones you really need.
• Be Picky About Apps: Only download apps from trusted sources like the official app store. Avoid installing apps from unknown developers.
• Update Regularly: Keep your phone’s operating system and apps up-to-date. These updates often include important security patches.
• Delete Unused Apps: If you haven’t used an app in a while, consider deleting it. Fewer apps mean less clutter and fewer potential security risks.

By taking a few minutes to review your app permissions and habits, you can protect your privacy and keep your phone running smoothly.

So, you’ve got antivirus software. That’s great! It’s like having a security guard for your computer. But don’t get too comfortable. Cybercriminals are smart, and they’re always coming up with new ways to sneak past your defenses.

Think of antivirus software as a shield. It’s pretty good at blocking common threats, but it’s not invincible. Hackers can find ways to slip through the cracks. That’s why you need to be your own best defense.

One of the biggest threats is phishing. These are fake emails that try to trick you into clicking on links or downloading attachments. Even with antivirus software, these emails can be dangerous. The malware they carry might slip past your defenses.

Here are some other things you can do to stay safe:

• Be Wary of Links and Attachments: Don’t click on links or download files from emails or websites you don’t trust.
• Keep Your Software Updated: Make sure your operating system and all your software are up-to-date with the latest security patches.
• Use Strong Passwords: Create complex passwords for all your accounts and avoid using the same password for multiple sites.
• Back Up Your Data: Regularly back up your important files to an external hard drive or cloud storage.

Remember, antivirus software is just one part of your overall online security strategy. By being aware of the threats and taking steps to protect yourself, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to cyberattacks.

Need more storage space? It’s tempting to reuse an old hard drive or pick up a cheap one from a garage sale. But before you plug anything in, think twice.

Cybercriminals are sneaky, and they’ve figured out how to hide malware on used hard drives. It’s like finding a lost wallet with a nasty surprise inside. When you connect that infected hard drive to your computer, you’re basically inviting malware in for a visit.

So, how can you protect yourself?

• Buy New, Not Used: When you need a new hard drive, buy it from a reputable retailer. It might cost a bit more, but it’s worth it for peace of mind.
• Beware of Freebies: If you find a random hard drive lying around, don’t plug it into your computer. It could be a trap.
• Scan External Drives: If you must use a used hard drive, scan it for malware before connecting it to your computer.

Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry. By following these simple tips, you can protect your computer from harmful malware.

Upgrading to a new phone is exciting, but don’t just toss your old one aside. It’s like throwing away your wallet without checking it first!

Your phone is a treasure trove of personal information – photos, messages, contacts, and more. If you sell or give away your phone without wiping it clean, you’re handing over all that juicy data to someone else.

So, before you say goodbye to your old phone, follow these steps:

• Back It Up: Copy all the important stuff – photos, contacts, and messages – to your computer or a cloud storage service. This way, you won’t lose anything precious.
• Delete, Delete, Delete: Go through your phone and delete anything you don’t want to keep. This includes apps, photos, messages, and anything else that might contain personal information.
• Factory Reset: The final step is to perform a factory reset. This wipes your phone clean, removing all your data and settings.

By following these steps, you’re making sure that your personal information stays private. Don’t let your old phone become a security risk!

Ever wondered how those online shopping scams happen? Well, there’s a sneaky trick called e-skimming that cybercriminals use to steal your credit card information.

Imagine you’re shopping online and you reach the checkout page. You enter your credit card details, thinking everything is safe. But what you don’t know is that a tiny piece of malicious code, hidden on the website, is secretly copying down your card number, expiration date, and security code. This is e-skimming.

These sneaky little code snippets are like digital pickpockets, stealing your card details right from under your nose. Once they have your information, cybercriminals can use it to create fake cards or go on a shopping spree.

So, how can you protect yourself? Here are some tips:

• Look for the Lock: Always check for the padlock symbol in your browser’s address bar before entering payment information. This indicates a secure connection.
• Beware of Fake Websites: Be cautious of websites that look similar to popular stores. Typos in the website address are a common red flag.
• Use Credit Cards, Not Debit Cards: Credit cards offer more protection against fraud than debit cards.
• Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for any suspicious activity.

By following these tips, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to e-skimming. Stay vigilant and protect your hard-earned money!

Your phone is like a mini-computer in your pocket, packed with personal information. Losing it can be a nightmare. But don’t panic! There are ways to protect yourself.

One of the smartest things you can do is to install a security app that can help you find your phone if it goes missing. These apps are like digital trackers for your device.

Here’s how they work:

• Find My Phone: Most phones have a built-in feature that lets you locate your device on a map.
• Remote Wipe: If your phone is lost or stolen, you can use these apps to erase all your data remotely. Think of it as pressing a big “delete” button from afar.
• Loud Alarm: Some apps can activate a loud alarm on your phone, even if it’s on silent. This can be helpful if you just misplaced it somewhere in your house.

There are plenty of security apps available, so do your research and find one that suits your needs. By taking a few minutes to set up a security app, you’ll be prepared for the worst-case scenario.

Remember, prevention is key. Protect your phone and your personal information with a reliable security app.

Ever seen a pop-up screaming, “Your computer is infected!”? Those are usually scams, designed to trick you into clicking on something that will actually infect your computer.

Cybercriminals love these pop-up ads because they’re easy to create and can fool a lot of people. They’ll say things like, “Your system is at risk” or “Click here to scan now.” But don’t be fooled!

Here’s what you should do if you see one of these pop-ups:

• Don’t Panic: Stay calm. Don’t click anything.
• Close It Down: Shut down your browser window immediately.
• Open a New Window: Start a fresh browsing session to avoid going back to the scammy website.

Remember, legitimate antivirus software won’t scare you with pop-ups. They’ll quietly protect your computer in the background.

So, next time you see a pop-up warning you about a virus, take a deep breath and close it down. Your computer will thank you!

Tired of managing a million different email accounts? Us too! But hear us out. Using separate emails for different parts of your life is actually a smart security move.

Think of it this way: your email is like a digital mailbox. If you stuff everything into one box, it’s easier for someone to steal your mail. But if you have separate boxes for work, personal stuff, and online shopping, it’s much harder for a thief to get their hands on your valuable information.

Here’s how it works:

• Work Email: Use this for professional communication and to connect with colleagues.
• Personal Email: This is for friends, family, and personal stuff.
• Shopping Email: Sign up for newsletters and online shopping with this address.
• Junk Email: Create a catch-all email for random sign-ups or suspicious offers.

By creating different email addresses, you make it harder for hackers to collect all your personal information in one place. It’s like adding extra locks to your digital life.

Cybercriminals are sneaky, and they’re always on the lookout for unsuspecting victims. One of their favorite tricks is called phishing, where they send you emails pretending to be from trusted companies like your bank or online retailer. These emails often contain urgent-sounding messages and tempting offers, designed to lure you into clicking on malicious links or downloading harmful attachments.

Think of phishing emails as digital traps. Once you click on that link or download that attachment, you’re essentially inviting cybercriminals into your digital life. They can steal your personal information, install malware on your computer, or even take control of your accounts.

It’s important to remember that legitimate businesses will never ask for your sensitive information through email. If you receive an email claiming to be from your bank or any other trusted company, and it asks you to click on a link or download an attachment to verify your account or claim a prize, it’s almost certainly a scam.

Here’s how to spot these fishy emails:

• Check the Sender: Always look closely at the email address. Does it match the company’s official address? Small typos or strange email addresses are red flags.
• Beware of Urgent Messages: Phishers often create a sense of urgency, like you need to act fast. Don’t fall for it!
• Don’t Click That Link: Avoid clicking on any links or downloading attachments from suspicious emails. They could be a trap.
• Never Share Personal Info: Legitimate companies won’t ask you to verify personal information through email. If you get a request, it’s probably a scam.

Remember, banks and trusted companies will never ask for your personal information through email. If you’re unsure about an email, contact the company directly using a phone number you know is legit.

Smart homes are cool, right? With everything from smart lights to smart refrigerators, life is getting easier. But with all these connected devices, your privacy and security are at risk.

Hackers love smart devices. They’re like unlocked doors to your digital life. Once they’re in, they can snoop on you, steal your information, or even control your devices.

So, how can you protect yourself? Here are a few tips:

• Strong Passwords: Use strong, unique passwords for all your devices and accounts. It’s boring, but it’s important.
• Keep ‘Em Updated: Make sure your devices and apps are always up-to-date. These updates often include important security patches.
• Secure Your Wi-Fi: Use a strong password for your home Wi-Fi and consider using a VPN for extra protection.
• Be Careful What You Share: Not every device needs to be connected to the internet. Think about what information you’re sharing and why.

Remember, a little extra effort goes a long way in protecting your digital life. Stay informed about the latest security threats and take steps to protect yourself and your family.

Your phone is like a tiny treasure chest filled with your digital life – photos, emails, contacts, and more. Unfortunately, it can also be a target for hackers. To keep your phone safe, follow these tips:

Lock it Up: Set a strong passcode or use fingerprint or facial recognition to unlock your phone. This is your first line of defense against snoopers.

Sensitive Stuff Stays Out: Avoid storing super important stuff like Social Security numbers or passport details on your phone. Back them up to a secure location instead.

Be App Smart: Only download apps from trusted sources like the official app store. If an app looks too good to be true, it probably is. Do some research before hitting that download button.

Update Regularly: Keep your phone’s software up-to-date. These updates often include important security patches.

By following these simple steps, you can protect your phone and keep your personal information safe.

Love free Wi-Fi? Us too! But before you connect, think about your security. Public Wi-Fi networks, like those at coffee shops or airports, are like open doors for cybercriminals. They can snoop on your internet traffic and steal your personal information.

So, how can you stay safe online? Here are some tips:

• Stick to Your Own Network: Whenever possible, use your home Wi-Fi or your phone’s hotspot. These networks are more secure.
• Upgrade Your Wi-Fi: If you must use public Wi-Fi, make sure the network is protected with WPA2 or WPA3 encryption. This adds an extra layer of security.
• VPN: Your Digital Shield: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates a secure tunnel between your device and the internet, protecting your data from prying eyes.
• Be Careful What You Share: Avoid accessing sensitive information, like online banking or shopping, on public Wi-Fi.

Remember, public Wi-Fi is convenient, but it comes with risks. By following these tips, you can enjoy the internet without worrying about your security.

Spam emails are like those annoying telemarketing calls – nobody wants them. Cybercriminals love sending out spam because it’s a cheap and easy way to try and trick people.

These spam emails often promise amazing deals, easy money, or even fake lottery winnings. But don’t be fooled! They’re usually just trying to get you to click on a link or download a file that’s full of malware.

So, how can you protect yourself from spam?

• Delete, Delete, Delete: If an email looks suspicious or comes from someone you don’t know, just delete it. Don’t even bother opening it.
• Avoid Clicking Links: Links in spam emails can be dangerous. No matter how tempting the offer, resist the urge to click.
• Don’t Download Attachments: Attachments in spam emails are often infected with malware. Keep your computer safe by avoiding them altogether.

Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. By following these simple tips, you can protect yourself from spam and keep your computer safe.

Your email inbox is like a digital filing cabinet, stuffed with all sorts of stuff. Unfortunately, it can also be a treasure trove for hackers. If they manage to break into your email, they can snoop through your messages and steal your personal information.

Imagine if someone found a physical filing cabinet with your passport and social security card just sitting out in the open. That’s basically what happens when you leave sensitive information in your email.

So, how can you protect yourself?

• Spring Cleaning for Your Inbox: Regularly delete old emails, especially ones with personal information like bank statements, passwords, or social security numbers.
• Password Power-Up: Change your email password every 90 days (or even more often). This makes it harder for hackers to access your account.
• Be Careful What You Share: Avoid sending sensitive information through email. If you must, use encrypted methods or consider alternative ways to share the data.

Remember, your email account is a digital reflection of you. Keep it clean and organized to protect your privacy.

You get a strange email. It looks kind of official, maybe even from a company you know. But before you click anything, take a deep breath and read carefully.

Cybercriminals are sneaky, and they love to trick people into clicking on links or downloading files that contain malware. These nasty little programs can steal your information, hold your computer hostage, or even spy on you.

So, how can you protect yourself? Here are some tips:

• Know Your Senders: Always check the email address carefully. Does it look legit? If it’s from someone you don’t know, be extra cautious.
• Beware of Urgent Messages: Phishers often create a sense of urgency, like you need to act fast. Don’t fall for it!
• Don’t Click That Link: Links in emails can be dangerous. Even if the email looks real, avoid clicking on any links unless you’re absolutely sure they’re safe.
• Attachments: A Risky Business: Downloading attachments from unknown senders is like opening a mystery box. You never know what’s inside. It could be a virus in disguise.

Remember, if an email feels off or looks suspicious, delete it without opening it. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Imagine your online accounts as your digital wallet. You wouldn’t leave it lying around, right? That’s where two-factor authentication (2FA) comes in. It’s like adding a padlock to your digital wallet.

2FA means you need two things to log in: your password and a second form of identification. This could be a code sent to your phone, an app on your device, or even a physical key. It’s like having a secret handshake to access your accounts.

Why is 2FA so important? Because it makes it way harder for hackers to steal your stuff. Even if they get your password, they still need that second piece of the puzzle.

So, where should you use 2FA? Everywhere possible! Think email, banking, social media, and any other important online accounts. It’s like wearing a seatbelt for your digital life – you might never need it, but you’re glad you have it when you do.

Remember, a little extra security goes a long way. Enable 2FA on all your accounts and enjoy peace of mind knowing your information is safer.

Cybercriminals are sneaky and love to trick you into giving up your personal information. That’s where phishing comes in. They send fake emails that look like they’re from trusted companies, hoping you’ll click on a link or download an attachment.

So, how can you spot a phishing scam a mile away? Here are some tips:

• Trust Your Gut: If an email feels off, even slightly, it probably is. Don’t be afraid to trust your instincts.
• Double-Check the Sender: Look closely at the email address. Is it from a legitimate company? Small typos or strange email addresses are red flags.
• Beware of Urgent Requests: Phishers often create a sense of urgency, like you need to act immediately. Don’t fall for it!
• Avoid Clicking Links: Don’t click on any links or download any attachments from suspicious emails. They could contain malware.
• Junk It or Block It: If you’re sure an email is spam, mark it as junk or block the sender. This helps protect you and others.

Remember, if it looks too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t be afraid to delete suspicious emails without opening them. Your safety online is worth it!

Love sharing your life on social media? So do cybercriminals! They’re like digital detectives, piecing together your life story from your posts.

Think about it: every photo, post, and comment is a tiny clue. By scrolling through your profile, a clever crook can learn your likes, dislikes, where you live, where you work, and even who your friends and family are.

This information is like ammo for cybercriminals. They can use it to craft convincing phishing scams, target you with personalized ads, or even steal your identity.

So, how can you protect yourself?

• Privacy Settings: Lock down your social media accounts. Adjust your privacy settings to limit who can see your information.
• Think Before You Post: Before hitting that “share” button, ask yourself: “Do I really want everyone to know this?”
• Avoid Over-Sharing: Sharing your birthdate, address, or phone number online is like handing out a welcome mat for cybercriminals.
• Separate Work and Play: Never discuss work-related stuff, like financial details or sensitive projects, on social media.

By being mindful of what you share online, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of cybercrime.

Remember, your online reputation is important, so treat it with care!

Imagine your computer as a safe. If you stuff all your valuables – cash, jewelry, and passports – into one drawer, it’s an easy target for a thief. The same goes for your digital life.

Storing all your important files – passwords, bank details, and personal documents – in one place on your computer is like leaving that drawer unlocked. If a hacker breaks in, they have a field day!

To protect yourself, spread your digital treasures around. Here’s how:

• External Hard Drive Haven: Back up your important files onto an external hard drive. It’s like having a safety deposit box for your digital stuff.
• Cloud Storage: Consider using cloud storage services to back up your files. This way, even if your computer is lost or stolen, your data is safe online.
• Password Managers: Store your passwords in a secure password manager instead of a text document on your computer. These tools are designed to keep your login information safe.

Remember, it’s all about reducing risk. By spreading your digital assets across different locations, you make it much harder for hackers to steal your identity or cause financial damage.

So, don’t be a one-stop shop for cybercriminals! Protect yourself by diversifying where you store your important information.