Complete and total INTERNET SECURITY is impossible. However, following some simple guidelines may help your reduce your risk.
INTERNET SECURITY can be strengthened by following some practical guidelines.
PASSWORDS
Passwords are created for Internet security. However, proper passwords, strong ones are not easily created. Artificial intelligence, computer programs are out there and will decipher simple passwords very easily and very quickly.
Practical guidelines to minimize your INTERNET RISKS
- Use PASSWORD MANAGERS such as LastPass Password manager, a very popular and highly rated password manager. We have written about LASTPASS.
Read more at LASTPASS - Create passwords using the password manager program
- Manage, record, and retain all your passwords through a password manager, accessible anywhere you have Internet connectivity and only via a very secure password.
- Avoid using the “little black book” method of password management. Good for the old days but no longer, in this day and age.
- Some sites need accurate personal information, like online banking or insurance companies. Other sites should be questioned.
- Consider creating a “ghost” email address to use on the open Internet.
- Never click on pop ups; some people can steal your identity and information.
- Do not post pictures with something that might give away where you are, including school logos or signs. Examine your photos before posting to friends or family.
- Do not use passwords from your parents, friends, family members, or common passwords such as “1234pink”.
- Use numbers and letters and symbols such as $ # @ ! in your passwords.
- Do not tell anyone your password.
- Hackers use games and chatrooms. Be very wary if you use such locations.
- Date stamp all your passwords in your password manager and houseclean the application regularly.
- Inform your bank, job, and others of these changes immediately.
- You will probably have to change all the passwords or account numbers immediately if it was in your email.
- There is no real privacy online.
- If you want something to stay private, do it person to person, LIVE, not by INTERNET.
- Computer use today demands complex passwords.
- If your computer was hacked, then all your information has been compromised.
- Update your virus protection software regularly and use it.
- If important documents and information were stolen or compromised, inform your bank or job accordingly.
- Emails from family or friends which seem unusual may be fraudulent. Confirm their legitimacy by phoning the sender.
Report any suspicious activity you think may be criminal:
An important addendum
Report any suspicious activity you encounter. Do not feel ashamed or embarrassed. The scammers are polished professionals, experts at what they do.
If you have been victimized, report it immediately. Help may still be available to help recover your money, particularly if it is a credit card fraud.
It is crucial that you act on it as soon as possible.
Some material is sourced from Larry Rosen, Ajax Library
