Complete Guide to Staying Safe Online
The internet is a wonderful tool for staying connected with family, managing finances, and accessing information. But it's important to know how to protect yourself from scams and threats. This guide will teach you everything you need to stay safe online.
1Understanding Common Online Threats
Before you can protect yourself, it's helpful to understand what threats exist. Here are the most common ones:
Phishing Emails
Phishing emails pretend to be from legitimate companies (like banks, Amazon, or Microsoft) to trick you into revealing passwords or personal information. They often:
- Create a sense of urgency ("Your account will be closed!")
- Ask you to click a link and enter your password
- Have spelling mistakes or look slightly "off"
- Come from email addresses that don't match the company
Tech Support Scams
Scammers call or display pop-ups claiming your computer has a virus and they need remote access to fix it. Remember:
- Microsoft, Apple, and Google will NEVER call you about viruses
- Pop-ups warning about viruses are almost always fake
- Never give remote access to someone who calls you unexpectedly
- Legitimate companies don't ask for gift cards as payment
Romance and Investment Scams
Scammers build relationships online, then ask for money. Warning signs include:
- They can never meet in person or video chat
- They ask for money for emergencies or investments
- The relationship moves very quickly
- They claim to be overseas (military, oil rig, etc.)
2Creating Strong Passwords
Your passwords are the keys to your digital life. Here's how to make them strong:
Good Password Practices
- Use at least 12 characters—longer is better
- Mix uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols
- Use different passwords for each account
- Consider using a passphrase like "MyDogLovesToRun!23"
- Use a password manager to remember them all
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- • Using your name, birthday, or pet's name
- • Simple passwords like "123456" or "password"
- • Using the same password everywhere
- • Writing passwords on sticky notes by your computer
- • Sharing passwords with others
3Safe Browsing Habits
Follow these practices whenever you're online:
Look for HTTPS
Before entering any personal information, check that the website address starts with "https://" (not just "http://"). Look for the padlock icon in your browser.
Don't Click Suspicious Links
If an email or message seems suspicious, don't click any links. Instead, go directly to the website by typing the address yourself.
Keep Software Updated
Updates often fix security problems. Enable automatic updates for your operating system, browser, and antivirus software.
Use Antivirus Software
Windows Defender (built into Windows 10/11) is excellent and free. Make sure it's turned on and running.
4What to Do If Something Goes Wrong
If you think you've been scammed or your information has been compromised:
- 1
Change Your Passwords Immediately
Start with your email and banking passwords. Use a different device if possible.
- 2
Contact Your Bank
If you shared financial information, call your bank right away. They can freeze your accounts if needed.
- 3
Report the Scam
Report to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and your local police if you lost money.
- 4
Monitor Your Credit
Consider freezing your credit and monitoring your credit reports for suspicious activity.
Key Takeaways
- Never share passwords or personal information with unsolicited callers
- Use strong, unique passwords for each account
- Be skeptical of emails creating urgency or fear
- Keep your software and antivirus updated
- When in doubt, call a trusted friend or family member first
Need Help Staying Safe Online?
Our friendly specialists can help you set up security software, review suspicious emails, and make sure your computer is protected.