The Internet has become an integral part of our daily lives, but you may be wondering, “How can I protect my personal information online?” Whether you’re paying your bills or following the news, passwords are one of the most important safeguards for protecting your personal information online. For maximum security, choose passwords that are at least six characters long and contain letters and numbers. Avoid passwords that can be easily guessed, such as your child’s name, date of birth, or phone number. Don’t use the same password for more than one website and get in the habit of changing your passwords every two to three months to protect your personal data online.
A login interface for an online account.
As you check your email, learn to recognize the signs of phishing scams. Phishing occurs when someone creates an email requesting your personal information that appears to be from a bank or some other type of well-known company. Often, you’ll be asked to verify your Social Security number or other important personal information online to avoid having your account closed. If you click on the link in the message, you will be taken to a “fake” or fake version of a trusted website. To protect your personal information online, always copy and paste web addresses into your browser window and call the company directly if you are asked to provide personal information by email.
Users should check the website URL of a website to make sure it is secure before entering any personal information.
If you like to shop online, be careful doing business with unknown retailers. Many unsuspecting shoppers have had their personal information stolen as a result of online shopping scams. Look for stores that have the Better Business Bureau Online seal of approval. Reputable companies should also offer package tracking and insurance to ensure your merchandise is delivered safely. Do not provide more information than is really necessary to complete your purchase; There’s no legitimate reason for a store to need your Social Security number or your mother’s maiden name if you’re simply trying to buy a birthday present for your spouse. If you are concerned about shopping on a specific website, please call their customer service department to ask how you can better protect your personal information online with their website.
Online purchases should only be made from trusted sites.
Blogs and personal websites provide new ways for thieves to steal your personal information online. Even seemingly innocent references to your friends, family, or workplace can give criminals the details they need to steal your identity. For maximum security, refer to people only by nicknames and think twice about the content of the photos you decide to post.
Resisting the temptation to act impulsively with special offers can help you avoid online credit card fraud.
Of course, software developers are continually looking for new ways to help you protect your personal information online. Spam filters and phishing filters are being developed to help keep email secure, while the latest version of Internet Explorer contains a number of improved security features. For this reason, it is important to regularly check your web browser and virus protection software for updates.
For maximum security, people should think twice about the content of the photos they choose to post.
