Internet Safety (Page 2)

PASSWORD SECURITY

• Don't share your password with anyone.
• Don't write your password down.
• Change your password often.
• Use a different password for each of your accounts.
• Don't check "remember my password" boxes.

DESKTOP SECURITY

• Don't download files from unknown sources
• Lock your computer when you aren't using it.
• Use anti-virus software.
• Patch and update on a regular basis.
• Backup important files on a regular basis.

EMAIL SECURITY

• Don't open unknown or unexpected email attachments.
• Don't send confidential information via email.
• Don't reply to unsolicited email messages (SPAM).
• Don't be an unintentional Spammer.

Don't be an unintentional Spammer. If you're like most people, you've probably received at least one hoax or chain letter in your inbox. What should you do with the next one you receive? Delete it! Why you ask? Because chain letters and hoaxes have the potential to cause problems (lots of network traffic or just filling up someone's inbox) and they can also be very annoying. Visit snopes.com to find out more about hoaxes and chain letters.

PROTECT YOUR IDENTITY

• Don't fall for phishing schemes.
• If an email message contains any of the following phrases, there's a pretty good chance it's a phishing scheme:
  • We need to verify your account information.
  • If you don't respond immediately, your account will be cancelled.

• Protect your Social Security number.
• Make sure your personal information is protected when you do business online.
• Periodically check your credit report.

If you are a victim of identity theft, report it immediately.

• Contact the three major credit bureaus and have them place a fraud alert on your credit report.
• If a credit card was involved, contact the credit card company and close the account.
• Contact your local law enforcement agency and file a report.
• File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.