Cyber Security Tips

Check out these tips for ways to help protect yourself, your computer and your business *

Protect your e-identity: Use different user ID / password combinations for different accounts and avoid writing them down. Make the passwords more complicated by combining letters and numbers, and change them on a regular basis.
Activate your firewall: Fire walls are the first line of cyber defense; they block connections to unknown or bogus sites and will keep out some types of viruses and hackers.
Use anti-virus software: Prevent viruses from infecting your computer by installing and regularly updating anti-virus software.
Block spyware attacks: Prevent spyware from infiltrating your computer by installing and updating anti-spyware software.
Install the latest operating system updates: Keep your applications and operating system (e.g. Windows, Mac, Linux) current with the latest system updates.
Back up your files: Protect important files from viruses or physical damage (such as floods, fires) by making backups and storing them in a different location.
Protect your wireless network: Wi-Fi (wireless) networks are vulnerable to intrusion if they are not properly protected after installation (you can do so yourself or have this done by an expert when you purchase the wireless network router).
Delete e-mails from unknown senders: If you see e-mails from an address you don’t recognize, delete them immediately. Do not open them! Never download attachments from people you don’t know or follow links to website listed in the e-mails. They could infect your computer with a virus or spy ware.
Browse the Internet safely: Be cautious when giving out personal information such as your name, address, phone number or financial information on the Internet. Make certain that website are secure (e.g. when making online purchases) or that you’ve enabled privacy settings (e.g. when accessing/using social networking sites).
Call the right person for help: Call your local police if you encounter questionable Internet content (e.g. child exploitation) or if you suspect a computer crime, identity theft or commercial scam. If you need help with maintenance or software installation on your computer, call a local computer technician or vendor.

* Courtesy of Spruce Grove RCMP