GCH are celebrating #SaferInternetDay Safer Internet Day aims to inspire a national conversation about using technology responsibly, respectfully, critically, and creatively.
Have a look at these top tips and video below with some suggestions on how to help you to stay safe online.
Create Complex Passwords
Create a strong, unique passwords for all your important personal accounts this will be the best way to keep all your personal and financial information safe.
Check to see if your online accounts offer multi-factor authentication. This is when multiple pieces of information are required to verify your identity. So, to log into an account you may need to enter a code that is sent to your phone, as well as your password.
Protect your identity
When using the internet never give out personal information, such as your number, address or bank details.
For additional safety of personal information, when using social media check your privacy settings and make sure only who you allow can see your posts.
Be aware of online scams
Online scams take place when people use the internet to try to con people into giving them money or personal information.
They are able to do this by :
- Computer viruses sent via an email with an attachment which when you click on it will release the virus. People can then use this to take control of your computer, or the virus may scan your computer for personal information. It can also slow your computer down, send out spam email or delete files.
- Scammers can create fake websites which look official but get you to provide personal or financial information.
- Scammers can use social networks. Once they’ve gained your trust, they’ll start asking you for money or personal information.
Protect your wireless network
If you have a wireless router, check that your wireless network is secure so that other people nearby can’t access it. It is best to set up your network so that only people with a password can connect to your network.
Be aware of your digital footprint
Every time you go online you leave what’s called a digital footprint which shows others where you are and what you have been doing.
Be careful with what you post remember that once an image or file is online it’s likely to stay there forever.
Check website addresses
When shopping online, or visiting websites for online banking or other sensitive transactions, always make sure that the site’s address starts with “https”, instead of just “http”, and has a padlock icon in the URL field. This indicates that the website is secure and uses encryption to scramble your data so it can’t be intercepted by others.
Find out more information on being safe online at www.saferinternetday.org.uk .