Here's a short pop quiz on personal cyber sphere security:
- Do you use the same password for several online accounts?
- Do you share that password with others, such as family or friends?
- Are you in the habit of checking your bank account activity on a regular basis?
How did you do? If you answered yes to questions 1 and 2 and no to the third question, it's time for a refresher on cyber sphere security.
Managing Passwords
Cyber protection professionals will tell you that you should use a different password for each online account you have. By having one password for multiple accounts, you’re making it easy for a cyber crook to access all those accounts if he/she figures out that password.
In addition to having a unique password for each account, change it frequently. Some experts recommend creating a new password once a month. Each password should include a combination of numbers, letters and symbols.
Another recommendation – don’t use personal information when choosing usernames, passwords or answers to security questions, especially if this information can be easily found by others online, such as on a Facebook page.
Avoid saving passwords on your computer, tablet or smart phone. Instead, use the old-fashioned method of paper and pen to record them. Or you can look into software that features password management programs that are designed to be highly secure.
Never share your passwords (or PINs for that matter) with others. Think of it as giving several people the key to your house. It “opens the door” to unwanted intrusions and potential theft.
And you should always password-protect your desktop computer, laptop, tablet and mobile phone, as well as your Wi-Fi service at home.
Yes, it can a pain sometimes to take that extra step of typing in your password, but it’s better to be secure than sorry.
Fortifying Your Computer
Install and/or update anti-virus software on your computer. This is not an option – it’s a must-have – especially if you’re online frequently and do a lot of transactions, such as buying items or services.
When you’re not using your computer, log off of it or turn it off altogether. At the very least, close your browser and sensitive apps before going offline.
Don't open e-mails or attachments from unknown sources. Cyber thieves use these methods to gain access to information on your computer or take control of it. The same goes for links that are in e-mails. Unless you know for sure where those links are going to take you, don’t click on them.
Other Recommendations
Monitor your financial activity frequently. Experts recommend checking your bank account online at least once a week, and preferably more often. The same goes for credit card and debit card activity, especially if you use your cards on a regular basis.
If you discover suspicious or unauthorized charges, check into them further and contact your financial institution immediately. And be aware that cyber thieves who have unauthorized access to accounts will try to “sneak” small transactions by victims to see if they’re paying attention to their account activity. If crooks find someone with their guard down, they’ll then make major purchases that could amount to hundreds if not thousands of dollars.
Remember that you are the first line of defense when it comes to protecting yourself from cyber crime.