Online Security
You can minimize the chance of an Internet mishap by adopting these practies:
- Make sure your operating system and Web browser are set up properly. Update them regularly.
- Use anti-virus and anti-spyware software, as well as a firewall. Update them regularly.
- If you receive an unsolicited message, you should not open any attached file whose name ends in ".exe." Clicking on such files could activate a computer virus that might affect the operation of your computer and/or damage the information stored on your computer.
- Only share credit card and personal information with companies you know and trust. This information is too valuable!
- Protect your passwords.
- Know who you are dealing with. If shopping online, confirm the seller's physical address and phone number in case you have questions or problems.
- Take your time. Resist any urge to "act now" despite the offer and the terms. Once you turn over your money, you may never get it back.
- Read the small print. Get all promises in writing and review them carefully before you make a payment or sign a contract.
- Never pay for a "free" gift or prize. Free means free.
- Check that the Internet connections are secure before you give your payment information.
- Many websites use Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) technology to encrypt the credit card information that you send over the Internet. These sites either inform you they are using this technology or the web address begins with "https:" instead of "http:"on the page asking for credit card information.
- Your browser displays the icon of a locked padlock at the bottom of the screen (Netscape Navigator™; - versions 4.0 and higher); You see the icon of an unbroken key at the bottom of the screen (earlier versions of Netscape Navigator™); You see the icon of a lock on the status bar (Microsoft Internet Explorer®).
- Print and save records of your online transactions
- Back-up important files.
Passwords
Use different passwords
If you use a password to log on to your network or computer, use a different password for purchases and another for particularly sensitive sites, such as your home banking site.
Choosing your password
The best passwords are not your address, birth date, phone number, or recognizable words. Choose a string of at least five letters, numbers, and punctuation marks. One easy way to create a memorable password is to take the first letter of each word in an expression or song lyric, and add some numbers and punctuation marks. For example, "tmottobg!5" is derived in part from "Take Me Out To The Old Ball Game."
Recording your password
Don't write down any password near your computer where someone could see it. If you do record it somewhere, reverse the order of the characters or transpose some letters or numbers. That way, someone finding it won't have discovered your true password.
To learn more, visit OnGuardOnline.gov.
