Tips on Online Security

Choosing a Password

Always choose a unique password for your account and don't use it anywhere else. Pick a password which is 8 characters long and has capital and small letters and numbers e.g. Grx3Hji1. Write your password down as well as the other details (such as favourite colour) used to secure your account and keep them secure. Your password may not be easy to remember but that makes it hard to guess.

Personal Details

Don't give out personal details online and don't agree to meet up alone with people who you meet online.

Financial and Security Details

The company you deal with will have all your financial and security details and does not need to see them again. Refuse to answer queries about your financial and security details from anyone purporting to be a company representative whether by phone, letter or email.

Scare Emails

If you receive an email supposedly from the company telling you there has been a problem with your account and asking you to click on a link to log in, don't follow the link. This is a trap used by hackers to get your financial details. Instead contact the company by phone or email (using their web page) to make sure there are no problems and to report the email.

Look for the Padlock

When you log into an online account, always look for a locked padlock on your screen. This tells you that your communications are secure.

Don't Ignore Warnings

If you get a warning message about the certificate of the site you are logging onto, don't proceed. Stop and close your browser. Open it up and try again. If you still get the warning, try again later. If the problem persists, contact the company to complain.

Don't be Scared

You use keys to lock your house and your garage and you keep those keys safe without even thinking about it. Internet security is just about developing equivalent habits online. Soon you will be surfing securely without even thinking about it.

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