The Fundamentals of Internet Security protect users from risks such as identity theft and viruses. Basic principles include using strong passwords, being cautious with personal information, and avoiding phishing scams. Additional measures include installing a firewall and keeping software up to date. It’s important to monitor credit reports and report suspicious activity. Network users should follow additional security principles advised by administrators.
The Fundamentals of Internet Security is designed to protect individual Internet users from the security risks that accompany Internet use. By following even the most basic security fundamentals, your browsing experience will be much safer and will also protect your personal information from predators. Being a victim of identity theft is the thing you want to avoid most of all, because it can take weeks or years for your credit history to clear. The fundamentals of security serve several purposes: they protect you from identity theft, minimize the potential damage to your computer from viruses and hijackings, and make the Internet safer for others to use as well, through a network of protected computers and users. .
The most basic security fundamentals have to do with the ways you protect and deliver your information. Change your passwords frequently and use alphanumeric codes or difficult passphrases. Resist the temptation to use passwords that include your name or the names of your children or pets. Familiar objects and places should also be avoided, to make guessing the password more difficult. If you suspect an online account has been compromised, take immediate action to change your password and notify the site of the breach.
Another precept of the security fundamentals is to be very careful about how and when to disclose information. Do not disclose personal information such as your address, credit card number, telephone number or bank account number to unreliable sources. Sites with expired security certificates should be avoided and common sense should be used before releasing this type of information: if you can buy an item locally, for example, try choosing that option over ordering online. If you release this type of information, make sure you know who it is being released to and how it will be used. Never disclose sensitive information such as your passport or social security number, and always use encrypted forms to submit sensitive data.
Many people fall victim to phishing, a type of scam in which the victim is contacted by someone claiming to represent someone else. Some phishing scams, such as those involving Nigerian money, are obvious. Others are more subtle: You may receive communications from a company claiming to be your bank, credit card company, educational institution or cell phone provider, for example. The email may state that more information is needed and ask you to provide it. Don’t respond to emails like this: Your best course of action is to call your company directly if you have any questions, and keep in mind that most financial institutions don’t do business over email. Banks also won’t ask for usernames, passwords, and other sensitive information, because they follow their own security foundations to protect customers.
Additional security principles include protecting your computer and Internet connection. Security breaches can lead to viral infections, and in some cases, a hacker can hijack your computer and use it to send unwanted email or launch attacks on a website. Avoid this problem by installing a firewall, keeping your operating system up to date with updates, and using a less vulnerable browser like Opera, Safari, or Mozilla Firefox.
By following basic security basics to protect yourself, you can reduce the risks of surfing the Internet. However, you will never be able to fully protect yourself, so be sure to obtain frequent copies of your credit report, and always report suspicious transactions to your financial institution immediately. If you are on a network such as a school or office one, be sure to follow additional security principles as advised by your network administrator to protect the network as a whole, as well as yourself.
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