Viruses can spread through your
computer, corrupting files and information as well as being passed on to
other people through your email. Spyware can track your movements on the
internet as well as collect information that you enter while using the
internet including passwords, banking information and personal data.
You may also download programs that appear safe but are hiding spyware or
viruses. These programs are called Trojan Horses. Only download
information from sites you know and trust.
Shop Securely
Online shopping is convenient but can also pose hazards for unwary buyers.
While electronic exchange of funds makes buying online easier it is
important to watch for signs of a secure site. Secure sites provide
encryption of data so that others can't view it or intercept it. This
encryption is called SSL (Secure Socket Layers).
Look for security symbols such as a closed padlock on the bottom of your
browser window and URLs that start with https instead of http. Encryption
that hides your sensitive information (like passwords, credit card numbers
and other personal data) by displaying it as dots rather than the actual
numbers or letters is another safety feature.
Check the Privacy Policy and only deal with reputable merchants. Check
with the Better Business Bureau if you're unsure. You may also consider
third party payment processors (such as Paypal and ClickBank) which
prevent the merchant from obtaining any financial information directly.
Check the security status and privacy policies of any third party
processor before making a transaction.
Sharing Computers or Using Laptops
If you are sending personal information on a public or shared computer you
must log out of the browser before ending your session. If you don't log
out another person may be able to use the back button on the browser to
obtain your information. Empty cookies so other users will not be given
your information if they access the same site.
Storing personal information on personal computers (especially laptops)
can be dangerous if the computer is stolen or hacked (illegally accessed).
Don't save sensitive passwords in programs that can auto-fill forms.
Online Forums and Chat Rooms
You may find that in the excitement of meeting new people and developing
personal relationships in online forums and chat rooms you to forget the
dangers of providing too much information.
In these social or business gatherings you may foster friendships within
the group but it is important to remember that these areas are available
to the public and individuals who are not making their presence known can
still be 'lurking' on the forums and searching for personal pieces of
information that are inadvertently expressed.
You never really know who you are talking to so it is wise to make it a
habit to never reveal personal information such as your telephone number
or address to these public groups.
Even if you are dealing with a private chat room you should exercise
caution if you are not personally familiar with the individual(s) you are
speaking too. Misrepresentation happens often enough to make it a real
danger even for adults. Never send personal or financial information to
individuals in a chat room or on a forum.
The anonyminity of the internet can cause people to say things online that
they would never say in person. It is wise to avoid getting involved in
heated debates (also called "flame wars" or "flaming" when directed to a
particular individual). People online are just as real as those you meet
in the flesh and saying something to incite another person can be just as
dangerous online as offline.
Watch Where You're Going
Don't download anything when you don't trust the source. Even if you are
emailed or given a link in a chat room or forum you should be cautious.
Look at the URL. Some links will directly download programs – including
viruses – without your consent.
While using anti-virus and anti-spyware programs will help avoid problems
they can't catch everything. Know where you're going and who is sending
you.
When You Need Help…
If you need help dealing with online security issues including harassment
or fraud you can contact the Cyber Law Enforcement Organization at:
http://www.cyberlawenforcement.org/ or check out more information at
http://www.wiredsafety.org/ or http://www.idtheftcenter.org/vresources.shtml.
While these organizations have connections to legal or volunteer
assistance you should contact your local police if you suspect your
identity has been stolen or fear for your safety.
Continue to Next Subject:
Learn How to Read a
Privacy Policy
