SecurityCoverage infographic highlights security risks for Data Privacy Day

• Keep a clean, updated machine.

Keeping the latest security software, web browser and operating system is a solid defense against viruses, malware and other online threats. Developers work hard to identify security weaknesses in their programs and issue updates with fixes. Be sure you are up-to-date and turn on auto-updates when available.

• Don’t click suspicious links.

Don’t open suspicious links in email tweets, posts, online ads, messages or attachments. What is suspicious? Be wary of deals that are “too good to be true” and if you receive email from people or companies you don’t know, report them as spam and delete it. Hover over links before clicking to verify that the address matches the email originator.

• Never give out account information.

Credible organizations will never contact you, asking for your account number, PIN, password, etc. They just won’t. If you are unsure, contact the organization directly (using the email or phone number you have on file).

• Use strong, long, unique passwords.

Make your passwords long and strong with a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols. Never reuse passwords on multiple accounts. Secure password manager software can help you generate good passwords and keep them safe and organized.

• Be smart about social.

You are just “renting” space on a social network and have very little say over changes to privacy settings. Always think twice before sharing things that could damage your reputation, friendships or future prospects. Use stand alone cloud storage to backup personal photos and files, instead of saving a copy in a social network.

• Don’t overlook mobile.

Smartphones and tablets store and transmit a huge range of personal data which third parties can access. Don’t transmit personal information when using public wi-fi and be sure to secure your mobile devices with a unique passcode and security software.

• Your network is only as secure as the least secure user.

Be sure to share this checklist with family and friends who use your network and machines. We each need to do our part and practice good digital citizenship.