Staying connected online to loved ones and resources is important right now, but keep in mind a few safety tips to protect your identity and personal information from cyber scammers.
When you use your mobile device, laptop or computer:
Choose a strong password. Pick one that’s meaningful only to you and at least eight characters long. Use a combination of numbers, letters and symbols.
Socialize safely. When using social media, don’t share too much personal information. Check your privacy settings to allow only your friends and family to see your posts. Don’t accept friend requests from people you don’t know.
Watch for unsafe emails. Avoid clicking on links, or opening attachments in emails from anyone you don’t know. Scammers can easily make emails look official.
Be careful of offers for free gifts or prizes. If you don’t normally enter a sweepstakes or lottery, then you most likely haven’t won anything.
Don’t share your personal or financial information. Most companies won’t ask for personal information in an email. Avoid giving out your bank account number, Social Security number, or date of birth to unknown sources.
Protect your computer. Install and regularly update your computer’s security programs, like anti-spyware.
We hope you can use this information to help your family stay safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.
