Additional ReferencesOnline Security Glossary
Safeguarding Your Data
The information below is an excerpt from "Safeguarding Your Data" article provided by the federal government and the technology industry.
- Use and maintain anti-virus software and a firewall
- Regularly scan your computer for spyware
- Keep software up to date
- Evaluate your software's settings
- Avoid unused software programs
- Consider creating separate user accounts
- Establish guidelines for computer use if multiple people are using the same computer
- Use passwords and encrypt sensitive files
- Follow corporate policies for handling and storing work-related information
- Dispose of sensitive information properly
- Follow good security habits
You Can Fight Identity Theft!
The following message on how you can protect yourself from identity theft is an excerpt from the phishing brochure created by federal regulatory agencies:
- Never provide your personal information in response to an unsolicited request, whether it is over the phone or over the Internet.
- If you believe the contact may be legitimate, contact the financial institution yourself.
- Never provide your password over the phone or in response to an unsolicited Internet request.
- Review account statements regularly to ensure all charges are correct.
"Spyware" Could Lead to Identity Theft
Spyware software installed on your computer without your consent can monitor or control your computer use. It may be used to send you pop-up ads, redirect your computer to websites, monitor your Internet surfing, or record your keystrokes, which, in turn, could lead to identity theft.
Tips to lower your risk of spyware infections:
- Update your operating system and Web browser software
- Download free software only from sites you know and trust
- Don't install any software without knowing exactly what it is
- Minimize "drive-by" downloads
- Don't click on any links within pop-up windows
- Don't click on links in spam that claim to offer anti-spyware software
- Install a personal firewall to stop uninvited users from accessing your computer
The above information is an excerpt from the Spyware brochure created by the federal government and the technology industry.
The Seven Practices for Safer Computing
Your first line of defense to help protect your personal computer and its contents is an awareness of some basic procedures. Below are seven common practices to help you improve your computer security.
- Protect your personal information.
- Know who you are communicating with when using the internet.
- Use anti-virus software and a firewall, and update both regularly.
- Be sure to set up your operating system and Web browser software properly, and update them regularly.
- Protect your passwords.
- Back up important files.
- Know who to contact if you suspect unauthorized activity while using the internet.
Source: The above information is an excerpt from "7 Practices for safer computing" brochure provided by the federal government and the technology industry.
Tips To Protect Your Personal Information
The Federal Trade Commission has provided some practical information on how you can safeguard your personal information; how to reduce the chance of your identity being stolen and what action you should take if you become a victim. In this brochure, you will find useful information such as:
- How can someone steal your identity?
- What are the effects of identity theft?
- How can you tell if you are a victim of identity theft?
- What is "pretexting" and what does it have to do with identity theft?
- How long can the effects of identity theft last?
- Should you use a credit monitoring service?
Source: The above information is an excerpt from "Your National Resource about ID Theft" brochure provided by Federal Trade Commission.
Read the entire "Your National Resource About ID Theft" brochure.