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The online world has become an integral part of our daily lives, with millions of people using the internet to shop, socialize, and access various services. However, with the convenience of the internet comes the risk of online threats and scams. This month, the Naperville Police Department aims to educate residents on the importance of online personal safety and provide practical tips to help prevent cybercrime.
Don’t Share Personal Information
Sharing personal information online or via email can put you at risk of identity theft and other cybercrimes. Think twice before posting anything online, and be cautious when sharing sensitive information with others. Some examples of personal information that should not be shared include:
- Your full name, address, phone number, and email address
- Your Social Security number or other government-issued ID numbers
- Your financial information, such as credit card numbers and bank account details
- Your passwords and login credentials
Keep Your Privacy Settings On
Enabling privacy settings on your web browser and mobile operating system is crucial to protecting your online identity. This includes:
- Limiting the amount of personal data you share on social media
- Using a VPN (virtual private network) to encrypt your internet traffic
- Setting up two-factor authentication (2FA) to add an extra layer of security
- Regularly updating your operating system and software
Practice Safe Browsing
One careless click on a malicious link can expose your personal data or infect your device with malware. Be cautious when clicking on unknown links or pop-ups, and never download apps from untrusted sources. Some red flags to watch out for include:
- Spelling and grammar mistakes in the link or app description
- Urgency or scare tactics used to persuade you to download the app
- A lack of transparency about the app’s purpose or functionality
- A request for your personal data or login credentials
Make Sure Your Internet Connection is Secure
A secure internet connection is essential to protecting your online identity. Use a reputable VPN service to encrypt your internet traffic and protect your data from interception. Some key features to look for in a VPN service include:
- Encryption
- A secure method of protecting your data from interception and eavesdropping
- Server locations
- A network of servers located in different countries, allowing you to access content from around the world
- Speed and performance
- A fast and reliable connection that minimizes lag and downtime
Be Careful What You Download
Downloaded apps can pose a significant threat to your online identity. Be cautious when downloading apps from untrusted sources, and never download apps that:
- Have poor ratings or reviews
- Require you to install additional software or plugins
- Request your personal data or login credentials
- Contain spelling and grammar mistakes
Choose Strong Passwords
Using strong passwords is essential to protecting your online identity. Choose a unique password for each of your accounts, and make sure it includes:
- A mix of upper- and lower-case letters
- A combination of numbers and special characters
- A minimum of 12 characters in length
Make Online Purchases from Secure Sites
When making online purchases, it’s essential to choose a secure site. Look for the following signs of a secure site:
- A locked padlock icon in the status bar at the bottom of your web browser
- A URL that starts with HTTPS:// (instead of HTTP://)
- A reputable and trustworthy website
Be Careful What You Post
What you post online can stay online forever, so think carefully before sharing information or images. Some examples of things that should not be shared online include:
- Your full name, address, phone number, and email address
- Your Social Security number or other government-issued ID numbers
- Your financial information, such as credit card numbers and bank account details
- Your passwords and login credentials
Be Careful Who You Meet Online
People you meet online may not be who they claim to be, and scammers often create fake profiles to scam you out of money. Be cautious when interacting with others online, and never:
- Send money to someone you don’t know
- Share your financial information or login credentials
- Meet in person with someone you’ve only met online
Updates and Resources
Stay up-to-date with the latest online safety tips and resources by visiting the Naperville Police Department’s website. You can also:
- Sign up for email alerts and newsletters
- Download the Naperville Police Department’s mobile app
- Attend online safety workshops and seminars
Stay safe online by staying informed and vigilant.
