Tuesday, September 18, 2012

Is my home internet a safe place?


Adapted from an article from StaySafe Online


Many families have a computer in their home. We store valuable information there, such as tax records, banking information, and lists of contacts. In addition, we often keep music, family photos, and other items of sentimental value. Losing this information to a cyber attack would be devastating, so what can home users do to reduce the odds?

* Use a suite of automatically updating security tools that includes anti-spyware, firewall and anti-virus software.
* Be sure your operating system and Web browser are set to automatically update.
* Use long, complex passwords for both your computer and your network router that include numbers, symbols and letters, and change them periodically.
* Maintain vigilance online and be skeptical about giving up personal information.
* Turn off your computer when you are not using it.
* Talk to your kids about good online safety and security habits, including protecting their personal information and their reputation. Let them know that they can come to you if anything they see on the computer makes them uncomfortable.
* Regularly back up your data either online or to an external media source (and store in a secure location).

By implementing these practices into your routine, you are doing your part in making the Internet safer for you, your family, and your community.

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