Internet Intelligence: Your Guide to Staying Safe Online

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Social Savvy
Even if you follow every online security tip in the book, you are still vulnerable to viruses and theft through your less-responsible friends. Pernicious programs can gather information about you from your friends’ accounts, gradually learning everything they need to know for an attack. If you have a friend who constantly sends spam emails, posts links to disreputable websites, or invites you to questionable pages, alert them to the dangers and explain to them how to stay safe. If they won’t change their ways, don’t hesitate to unfollow them. Though this may not seem like the friendly thing to do, it will be far worse for your friendship if you lose money or download a virus through their negligence.

Information Intelligence
Be wary when giving out your credit card number, SSN, or other sensitive information. Although there are some legitimate reasons to share this information, many sites have no reason to ask for it other than to steal from you. Always ascertain why a website asked you for a particular piece of data, what it plans to do with it, and whether you can get the same service without sharing that data. Never share sensitive information if it is not absolutely necessary.

Consistent Confirmation
No matter how careful you are, a savvy hacker may still find a way into your accounts. When this happens, the key is to respond immediately, but that requires you to know that you have been hacked. You should thus check your bank statements, investments, and other sensitive accounts on a regular basis. If you notice a transaction that you did not authorize, contact the relevant organization immediately and cancel it. Also keep an eye on your emails and social media accounts for evidence of spam. The quicker you respond, the less damage will be done.
SafeTouch Security has the technology and expertise to protect customers in all areas of life. For more information on online security and how stay safe online, visit our website today.