Cyber Security Tips

Protect Yourself, Protect your Computer, Protect your Business

Top 10 Cyber Security Tips

1. Protect your e-identity
Use different user ID / password combinations for different accounts and avoid writing them down. Make the passwords more complicated by combining letters and numbers, and change them on a regular basis.

2. Activate your firewall
Firewalls are the first line of cyber defense; they block connections to unknown or bogus sites and will keep out some types of viruses and hackers.

3. Use anti-virus software
Prevent viruses from infecting your computer by installing and regularly updating anti-virus software.

4. Block spyware attacks
Prevent spyware from infiltrating your computer by installing and updating anti-spyware software.

5. Install the latest operating system updates
Keep your applications and operating system (e.g. Windows, Mac, Linux) current with the latest system updates.

6. Back up your files
Protect important files from viruses or physical damage (such as floods, fires) by making backups and storing them in a different location.

7. Protect your wireless network
Wi-fi (wireless) networks are vulnerable to intrusion if they are not properly protected after installation (you can do so yourself or have this done by an expert when you purchase the wireless network router).

8. Delete e-mails from unknown senders
If you see e-mails from an address you don’t recognize, delete them immediately. Do not open them! Never download attachments from people you don’t know or follow links to websites listed in the e-mails. They could infect your computer with a virus or spyware.

9. Browse the Internet safely
Be cautious when giving out personal information such as your name, address, phone number or financial information on the Internet. Make certain that websites are secure (e.g. when making online purchases) or that you’ve enabled privacy settings (e.g. when accessing/using social networking sites).

10. Call the right person for help
Call your local police if you encounter questionable Internet content (e.g. child exploitation) or if you suspect a computer crime, identity theft or commercial scam. If you need help with maintenance or software installation on your computer, call a local computer technician or vendor.

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For more information on helping children protect themselves while on the Internet, visit: Cybertip.ca .

For more information about online fraud, scams or identity theft, visit:

• Scams and Fraud
• Phonebusters , or
• Recol