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Top Ten Ways to Stay Safe Online

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October 1, 2008 Back to Article

Summary

Increase your awareness of online security. Read more for tips on how to keep yourself protected.

The Internet is supposed to make our lives better, and for most of us, that's exactly what it does. But the Internet has a dark side, and unless we take the proper precautions, this wonderful tool can end up causing us more harm than good.

October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month, and it's a good time to take a hard look how our online behaviors may be putting us in harm's way.

You don't have to be a computer genius to protect yourself online and you don't have to spend a lot of money. By following a few common sense tips, you can make the most out of your Internet experience, while protecting you and your family from online threats.

Protect your computer

The best thing you can do to keep the bad guys out of your computer is to use three inexpensive technologies: antivirus software, anti-spyware software and a firewall. Some security companies provide all three in one easy-to-use package.
Protect your identity

On the Internet, your personal data (social security number, birth date, etc.) is extremely valuable and can be used against you. Keep it protected.
Protect your children

Children face unique risks on the Internet, and require unique rules and safeguards. Monitor your kids' online activities closely. There are many tools available to help you protect them from online threats.
Stay up to date

Those security tools won't do any good unless you keep them up-to-date. You should be able to set them to update automatically. The same goes for your computer itself. It should be set to automatically install security updates.
Email safely

Email is a favorite tool of online crooks. Even legitimate-looking messages can be scams. Learn how to filter for "spam" and spot the signs of scam emails.
Protect your accounts

Choosing hard-to-guess passwords and changing them regularly can help prevent criminals from getting at your money or personal information.
Make copies

Regularly backing up your music, photos and other important files can save you if your computer crashes or is stolen.
Know your options

If something does go wrong, there are resources available to help get you back on your feet.
Keep informed

Subscribe to the National Cyber Alert System from the U.S. Computer Emergency Readiness Team. Through the Alert System, you can receive timely information about current cyber security problems to protect home and office computers.
Get your School involved

Suggest or sponsor an event at your local school or University designed to increase student and staff cyber security education and awareness. Download EDUCAUSE’s cyber resource kit.

For more information on all of these tips, including detailed guidance on how to protect your computer, your kids and your identity, visit the National Cyber Security Alliance at or get more information at On Guard Online.