Your online safety is important to us. With scams & security issues becoming increasingly prevalent in the online space today, your safety is more important than ever. We've got 10 tips to keep you safe online, so you can be alert & aware and keep your online information private!
1. Double Check Links Within Emails
Before you click any links within an email, check the URL! While it might look okay, the page could take you to a site that extracts your personal information. Type the URL in to your web browser manually to be sure you?re going to a legitimate website.
2. Be Wary of "Phishers"
If a company has sent an email requesting personal & financial details, do not respond within the email. If the email appears to be legitimate & you are unsure, contact the organisation directly to confirm the details of the message or request.
3. Always Check the Sender Email Address
Check for misspellings, incorrect signatures, and any other information that may advise the email is not from a legitimate source.
4. Learn to Distinguish Secure Websites
You may notice that secured sites have URL?s that begin with https://, and feature padlock icons within the browser frame. Extended Validation (EV) SSL sites also show a green highlight in the address bar.
5. Double Check Online Reseller & Retailer Information
Shopping online may be easy, but knowing whether sellers are reputable sometimes isn?t. Check other customer reviews & recommendations if an online retailer seems fishy, and research your products before making a purchase.
6. Use a Safe & Trusted Payment Method When Shopping Online
There are many payment services that provide secure ways to pay for goods & services online. Always use these services to protect your financial information, and beware of online merchants that only accept direct bank transfers, cash payment or other unusual methods.
7. Use Privacy Control & Sharing Settings
Privacy settings & controls make sure you know who sees your social media content. Ensure that you check your settings before posting personal information about you or your family, to know who will have access to view the content.
8. Use Device Passcode Protection
Leaving devices unattended can be harmful if they aren?t protected with a passcode. Unwanted account hacking and access to your personal details could occur if your lose your device or leave it unattended.
9. Use a Long & Unique Password
When choosing passwords for personal accounts, especially ones containing financial information, select a complex password that includes upper & lowercase letters, numbers and symbols, and do not use the same password for financial & email accounts.
10. Post With Caution
What you share on social media could be used to hurt or embarrass you, or even damage your reputation. Be aware of what you share online, in case it could hurt you or others.