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Cybersecurity Awareness Month – Online Safety Tips

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month! This month is a reminder for everyone to prioritize online safety and security. TCC’s Cyber Center understands that knowing how to protect ourselves from cyber threats has never been more crucial.

Throughout this month, take the opportunity to enhance your knowledge about online safety; including: phishing scams, password security, and safe browsing practices. Below are a number of tips to help you stay prepared and safe:

  • Use Strong Passwords: Create strong, unique passwords for all your accounts. Use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
  • Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Add an extra layer of protection by enabling MFA on your online accounts, especially email and financial services.
  • Keep Software Updated: Ensure your operating system, browsers, and applications are up-to-date. Updates often include critical security patches.
  • Be Wary of Phishing Scams: Think before clicking on links or opening attachments in emails from unknown senders. Phishing is a common method used by cybercriminals to steal information.
  • Secure Your Mobile Device: Use a password, fingerprint, or face recognition to lock your phone. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive tasks.
  • Back Up Important Data: Regularly back up your files to the cloud or an external hard drive to protect against data loss from attacks or hardware failure.
  • Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Financial Transactions: Public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured. Use a virtual private network (VPN) or mobile data for financial transactions or logging into sensitive accounts.
  • Recognize Suspicious Links: Before clicking on a link, hover your mouse over it to check the actual URL. Phishing scams often disguise harmful links.
  • Use Antivirus Software: Install reputable antivirus software and keep it updated to protect your devices from malware and other cyber threats.
  • Be Careful with Social Media Information: Limit what you share on social media. Cybercriminals can use personal details to steal your identity or trick you into scams.
  • Monitor Your Accounts Regularly: Check your bank, email, and other important accounts regularly for suspicious activity and unauthorized transactions.
  • Use Secure Password Managers: Store and manage your passwords with a secure password manager to ensure they are strong and unique.
  • Turn Off Bluetooth When Not in Use: Disable Bluetooth on your devices when not in use to prevent unauthorized connections.
  • Think Before Downloading: Only download apps and files from trusted sources. Malicious software can be disguised as legitimate downloads.
  • Review Privacy Settings: Periodically review the privacy settings on your social media and online accounts to control what information is shared.
  • Lock Your Computer When Away: Always lock your computer or laptop when you step away, especially in public places like libraries or coffee shops.
  • Use Encrypted Messaging Apps: For sensitive communications, use messaging apps that offer end-to-end encryption, such as Signal or WhatsApp.
  • Don’t Share Personal Information Over Email: Avoid sharing sensitive information (like your Social Security number) over email. Use encrypted communication if necessary.
  • Secure Your Home Wi-Fi: Change your default router password and use a strong Wi-Fi password. Enable WPA3 encryption if available.
  • Log Out of Accounts: Always log out of accounts when you’re done, especially on shared or public computers.
  • Avoid Clicking on Pop-Ups: Pop-ups often contain malware or phishing attempts. Use a browser that blocks or limits pop-ups, and never click on suspicious ones.
  • Set Strong Security Questions: Avoid using easy-to-guess security questions (like “What is your pet’s name?”). Use complex or less common answers to strengthen account recovery security.
  • Stay Cautious of Email Attachments: Do not open attachments from unknown or unexpected sources. Attachments can carry malware or ransomware.
  • Use a VPN on Public Networks: When using public Wi-Fi, use a VPN to encrypt your internet traffic and protect your data from hackers.
  • Watch Out for Fake Websites: Cybercriminals often create fake websites to steal your information. Look for “https” in the address bar and verify website URLs carefully.
  • Disable Unnecessary Browser Extensions: Extensions can pose security risks. Disable or uninstall extensions you don’t use, and only install trusted ones.
  • Beware of Fake Tech Support: Scammers may call or pop up on your screen claiming to be tech support. Never give remote access to your computer unless you initiated the contact.
  • Protect Your Online Reputation: Be mindful of what you post online. Once something is shared on the internet, it can be difficult to remove.
  • Be Cautious of Unsolicited Messages: Whether it’s a text, direct message, or email, be cautious when receiving unsolicited messages asking for personal information.
  • Review and Delete Old Accounts: Old accounts you no longer use can be a security risk. Review your accounts and delete those you no longer need.
  • Learn to Recognize Ransomware: Ransomware can lock your files and demand payment. Avoid downloading suspicious attachments or clicking on unfamiliar links, and regularly back up your data.