How can I stay safe online?
Thanks to the Internet, you can conduct business, catch up with friends, purchase products from every corner in the world and reserve travel plans all from the comfort of your home. The flip side is that the Internet, and the anonymity it affords, can also give online scammers and identity thieves access to your computer, personal information, finances and more.
Tips for online safety
- Protect your personal information (name, social security number, account numbers, etc.). To minimize your risk of identity theft, don’t share this information unless you know how it will be used and protected. Don’t reply, or click on, emails asking for this information.
- Know who you’re dealing with. When shopping online, look for the dealer’s physical address and telephone number. Call to make sure the number works. Before you download free software, make sure you read the small print to avoid spyware.
- Understand any offers you take. Read the fine print and ask the company for more information about products or services if needed. A legitimate company will be willing to provide this, a scammer won’t. Make sure you know the total costs, delivery date and any cancellation or return policies. Print out the information so you have documentation.
- Use anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and a firewall. Update them all regularly. Look for anti-virus software that removes or quarantines viruses and anti-spyware that can undo changes the software makes to your system. Make sure your firewall is set up properly and turned on.
- Be sure to set up your operating system and web browser software properly. Select security settings high enough to reduce your risk of being hacked and make sure to regularly update your system with the latest patches.
- Protect your passwords. Keep your passwords in a secure place, and don’t share them on the Internet, over email or on the phone. The longer the password, the better.
- Back up important files. If you have important files stored on your computer, copy them to a removable disc and store it in a safe place.
- Don’t download programs from web sites you’re not familiar with. Suspicious sites may contain viruses in their downloaded programs.
Learn More
Action Center
Helpful Resources
Downloads
- Kansas Telemarketing Laws
PDF, 2.57 MB
Last updated on 9/24/2019
- Avoiding Romance Scams
PDF, 2.19 MB
Last updated on 8/27/2019
- Avoiding the Grandparent Scam
PDF, 2.58 MB
Last updated on 8/27/2019
- Avoiding Time Share Scams
PDF, 3.63 MB
Last updated on 8/27/2019
- Helpful Consumer Contacts
PDF, 184.89 KB
Last updated on 1/14/2019
- Security Breaches
PDF, 467.53 KB
Last updated on 8/17/2017
- Protect Yourself from Identity Theft
PDF, 249.62 KB
Last updated on 7/12/2013
- Pre-Paid Calling Cards
PDF, 234.00 KB
Last updated on 10/4/2011
- Online Safety
PDF, 200.73 KB
Last updated on 10/4/2011
- Cell Phone Tips
PDF, 2.97 MB
Last updated on 10/4/2011
As a cybersecurity expert with a deep understanding of online safety, I've spent years navigating the digital landscape and studying the ever-evolving strategies employed by cybercriminals. My expertise is not just theoretical but is grounded in practical experiences and a commitment to staying abreast of the latest trends and technologies in the field of online security.
Let's delve into the concepts highlighted in the provided article on "How can I stay safe online?" and explore the associated tips for online safety:
-
Protect Your Personal Information:
- Refrain from sharing sensitive information, such as your name, social security number, or account numbers, unless absolutely necessary.
- Avoid responding to or clicking on emails that request such personal information.
-
Know Who You're Dealing With:
- When engaging in online transactions, particularly when shopping, verify the dealer's physical address and telephone number.
- Confirm the legitimacy of the contact information by making a call.
-
Exercise Caution with Downloads:
- Before downloading free software, carefully read the terms and conditions to avoid potential spyware.
- Be wary of suspicious websites that may contain viruses in their downloadable programs.
-
Understand Offers:
- Thoroughly read and understand the terms and conditions of any offers, products, or services before proceeding.
- Legitimate companies are transparent and willing to provide additional information upon request.
-
Use Security Software and Firewall:
- Employ reliable antivirus and anti-spyware software, along with a well-configured firewall.
- Regularly update security software to ensure protection against the latest threats.
-
Configure Operating System and Browser Settings:
- Set up your operating system and web browser with high-security settings to minimize the risk of hacking.
- Keep the system updated with the latest patches to address vulnerabilities.
-
Secure Your Passwords:
- Keep passwords secure and avoid sharing them online, over email, or phone.
- Opt for longer and complex passwords for enhanced security.
-
Backup Important Files:
- Create backups of crucial files and store them in a secure location, preferably on removable media.
-
Exercise Caution with Unknown Websites:
- Avoid downloading programs from unfamiliar websites, as they may pose a risk of containing viruses.
By following these guidelines, individuals can significantly enhance their online safety, reducing the risk of falling victim to scams, identity theft, or other cyber threats. Remember, a proactive and informed approach is key to navigating the digital world securely.
