15 July 2019
Using the Internet Safely
As part of St Helena Government’s (SHG) Internet Awareness Campaign to raise awareness of the dangers of the internet and to promote safety when online, this week the focus is on using the internet safely.
In today’s digital age more and more people, both young and old, are using the internet. While it is an amazing resource for information as well as a great place for social interaction, if not used safely the internet can present many dangers to those who use it.
With hacks, scams, malware and more, the World Wide Web can feel like a daunting place to visit for anyone not aware of how best to be protected. The creation of devices, from smartphones and tablets to internet-connected appliances, have opened people up to even greater risks when online.
The good news is that, by taking some small security measures, people can greatly reduce their exposure to these threats. These tips can help make sure that you use the internet safely:
- Create complex passwords – Creating strong, unique passwords for all your critical accounts really is the best way to keep your personal and financial information safe
- Use a firewall – This is an electronic barrier that blocks unauthorized access to your computers and devices
- Think before you click – Many of today’s online threats are based on phishing for personal or sensitive information for fraudulent purposes. Spam emails, phony ‘free’ offers, click bait, online quizzes, and more all use these tactics to entice you to click on dangerous links. Always be wary of offers that sound too good to be true
- Protect your mobile – Mobile devices are vulnerable to online threats as well as new risks, such as risky apps and dangerous links sent by text message. Be careful where you click, don’t respond to messages from strangers, and only download apps from official app stores. Ensure that security software is enabled on your mobile, just like your computers and other devices
- Keep up to date – Keep all your software updated so you have the latest security patches
- Keep your guard up – Online threats are evolving all the time, so make sure you know what to look out for by looking and listening out for the latest scams and techniques. Always be cautious about what you do online, which sites you visit, and what you share. Use comprehensive security software, and make sure to back up your data on a regular basis in case something goes wrong
Remember these tips next time you are online and share them with friends and family, especially children with access to the internet, to ensure that you and the people you care about are using the internet safely.
#StHelena #StayingSafeOnline #UsingTheInternetSafely
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SHG
15 July 2019