A firewall helps protect your computer from hackers who might try to gain access to crash it, delete information, or even steal passwords or other sensitive information. Software firewalls are widely recommended for single computers. The software is prepackaged on some operating systems or can be purchased for individual computers. For multiple networked computers, hardware […]

Don’t over share on social networking websites. Keep Social Security numbers, account numbers, and passwords private, as well as specific information about yourself, such as your full name, address, birthday, and even vacation plans.

Sharing updates about vacations and other trips is one of the most common social media activities, but it’s a risky one. Making this information publicly viewable can be dangerous to your physical security: Someone might plan a robbery based on knowledge of when you won’t be at home.

In order to prevent theft, unauthorized access and loss of sensitive information, never leave your mobile devices—including any USB or external storage devices—unattended in a public place. While on travel, if you plan on leaving any devices in your hotel room, be sure those items are appropriately secured.

Ignore emails or communications that create a sense of urgency and require you to respond to a crisis, such as a problem with your bank account or taxes. Imposter scams happen when you receive an email or call seemingly from a government official, family member, or friend urgently requesting that you wire them money to […]

Privacy policies are the Internet’s equivalents of fine print: They often contain many important details that nonetheless usually go unnoticed. Any time a company notifies you of an update to its policy, be sure to read it, since it might explain how your data is collected and shared with third parties. You can then adjust […]