Online Security

Six ways to keep secure online.
If you use the internet and store personal information such as your Social Security number, bank account numbers or financial records on your computer. Follow the safeguard steps below to be safe from spying eyes:

Update virus protection software regularly.
Enable firewalls to stop hackers from taking over your computer.
Don't open files, download programs or click on links sent to you by strangers. Confirm strange emails from friends and family before opening them or clicking on the included links.
Use a secure browser that encrypts or scrambles data you send during online transactions. Update your browser when a new version is released to make sure you have the latest security protection.
Use a complex combination of letters and numbers as a password to access financial information stored on your computer.
When disposing your computer, use a wipe utility program or shredding software to overwrite the hard drive or remove it and physically destroy it. Even erased and deleted files can be retrieved.

What is Phishing?
Phishing is a high-tech scam that uses email or pop-up messages that appear to be from businesses and organisations you deal with, like banks, online merchants and Internet Service Providers. They request that you verify or update your account information in order to steal sensitive data. They may even direct you to websites that look like the original website, but are not.

In addition to the above safeguards:

Don't email personal or financial information. Email is not secure.
Review credit card and bank account statements promptly for unauthorised charges.
Shred any CDs or DVDs that contain personal information before disposing of them (make sure your shredder can handle the material first).

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