Keep Computer and Mobile Information Secure

Protect yourself now and in the future

Learn how to become a more discerning computer user no matter where you are.

Update Your Security Preferences

Make your User ID and Password as secure as possible

A good password is paramount to your security. Avoid using a password or a variation of a password that you already use on another website. Also, avoid using any variation of your name, or names of family members or pets, as these can sometimes be found on social media. Focus on length and complexity. Adding a "1" or a "!" to the end, or substituting "$" for "S" are combinations that are easily hacked — increase complexity to better protect yourself.

Nickname Your Accounts

Nicknaming an account makes it easier to identify online and at ATMs — and it conceals your full account number.

Tips for Safe Computer Use

Use a personal firewall

Many internet service providers offer this feature. A personal firewall protects your home computer against unauthorized access. It is designed to protect only the computer on which it is installed. It protects you by controlling the traffic that comes in and goes out from your computer. It watches for attempts to access your system and blocks communications to and from sources you don't permit.

Beware of malware infection with drive-by download

Drive-by downloads may happen when visiting a malicious or vulnerable website, viewing an e-mail message or by clicking on a deceptive pop-uppop up window. Malware is malicious software installed on your computer which has a harmful intent that can, for example, capture your login passwords and other personal data. Examples of malware include software such as spyware, adware, viruses, etc. The best way to protect yourself from malware is to exercise caution before installing programs on your computer or opening email attachments. Here are some precautions that are important to take:

• Only install applications and software from well-known companies you trust.
• Make sure your computer is cleansed from viruses/spyware and has up-to-date anti-virus and anti-spyware software installed.
• Keep your operating system and browser up-to-date with the latest security updates and patches.

Install anti-virus, anti-spyware and malware detection software

The best defense against computer attacks is preventative software. You will need to update the software regularly to guard against new risks, so download updates from your provider as soon as they're available. Or better yet, set the software to update automatically.

Use a pop-uppop up blocker

Set your browser preferences to block pop-upspop ups — aside from being annoying, these pop-upspop ups can contain inappropriate content or have malicious intentions.

Go directly there

The best way to get to any site is to type its address (URL) into your browser and then bookmark it.

Tips for Public Network or Computer Use

Only use wireless networks you trust

Networks in internet cafés, hotels, and libraries are usually not secure and are easy to tamper with. Even if they provide you with a password, that does not guarantee a secure connection. You should avoid using any public computers for online banking.

Avoid using a public or shared computer for personal transactions

Anyone who uses the computer after you and visits the same websites may be able to sign on to your accounts. To address this issue, after you sign off, select the option to "Remove a user", if that option is available. Also, make sure to clear the internet history and any cookies stored.