Practice safe browsing habits every day

We spend most of our daily lives online, but none of the browsers, apps or devices we use are 100 percent secure. That’s why it’s important to practice safe browsing habits every day.

When you are reading e-mail or browsing online, be on the lookout for suspicious links and deceptive web pages, which are major sources of malware. Be careful when selecting browser plugins, apps or other downloadable files since they can introduce new vulnerabilities.

Keep your browser software up-to-date. Be sure to install antivirus updates and regularly check for and install browser plugin updates (e.g. Adobe Flash and Java). It's also important to stay current by regularly checking in with trusted websites for the latest safety information.

Be secure. Be sure that a URL includes HTTPS before entering any personal information, e.g. https://www.wayne.edu.

Ignore it. When in doubt, do not click on a pop-up window or extraneous ad.

Keep private information safe. Always use a strong, unique password for every account and avoid storing account information on a website (auto fill). Tip: consider using different web browsers for general web surfing and sensitive logins.

Use private networks for sensitive transactions. Do not check your bank account, make purchases or log in to other websites that require personal information when you’re using public Wi-Fi.

Be stealthy. Browsers store a lot of information: cookies, cached pages and history. Some offer private modes — like Google Chrome’s Incognito Mode — that do not save this information and ensure the safety of personal information.

Follow the golden rule. Share with care, that is — do not post something about someone else that you wouldn't want them to post or share about you. In the same vein, be aware of what is being posted about you; be sure to manage your privacy and security settings.

Devices can get malware too. Remember to plug in devices like USB drives and scan them with security software.

Back it up. Make an electronic copy of all your files and keep it stored somewhere safe.

Report it. If you do experience cyber crime or a lapse in security, please report it to the FBI Internet Crime (http://www.ic3.gov/default.aspx). 

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