Security & Safety Resource Center

Let’s be honest, Bluetooth is super convenient. But did you know that leaving Bluetooth constantly enabled on your phone or laptop can actually hurt you?

Firstly, it drains your battery. Bluetooth is always searching for connections, even when you’re not actively using it. This constant searching sips away at your battery life, leaving you scrambling for a charger more often.

Secondly, it presents a potential security risk. Bluetooth connections can be exploited by hackers to gain access to your device. While modern devices have security measures in place, leaving Bluetooth constantly active increases your overall attack surface.

So, how can you reap the benefits of a Bluetooth-free life?

• Embrace the wired life: When possible, use wired connections for your headphones, speakers, and other devices. A good old-fashioned aux cable can deliver excellent sound quality while saving battery life and minimizing security risks.
• Embrace voice assistants: For hands-free control of your music or smart home devices, consider using voice assistants like Siri, Google Assistant, or Alexa.
• Turn off Bluetooth when not in use: This is a no-brainer! When you’re not actively using Bluetooth, simply turn it off in your device’s settings.

By taking these simple steps, you can significantly improve your device’s battery life and enhance your overall security posture.

Let’s face it, life throws curveballs. From accidental deletions to devastating ransomware attacks, data loss can happen to anyone. That’s why following the 3-2-1 backup rule is crucial for protecting your precious files, photos, and important documents.

What is the 3-2-1 Rule?

It’s a simple yet powerful strategy:

• Three Copies: Have three copies of your important data. This redundancy ensures you have backups even if one or two copies become corrupted or inaccessible.
• Two Different Media: Store your copies on two different types of media. For example, keep one copy on your computer’s internal hard drive, another on an external hard drive, and a third in the cloud. This protects against data loss due to hardware failures or accidental deletion.
• One Copy Off-Site: Store at least one copy of your data off-site. This could be an external hard drive stored in a safe deposit box, a cloud storage service, or another location away from your primary residence. This protects your data from local disasters such as fires, floods, or theft.

Why an External Hard Drive is Essential

An external hard drive is a cornerstone of the 3-2-1 backup strategy. It provides a convenient and cost-effective way to create a local backup of your data.

• Easy to Use: Simply connect your external hard drive to your computer and initiate a backup. Many operating systems offer built-in tools for creating backups to external drives.
• Large Storage Capacity: Modern external hard drives offer massive storage capacities, allowing you to back up all your important files, including photos, videos, documents, and more.
• Portability: External hard drives are portable, making it easy to transport your backups to a safe location.

Don’t wait for disaster to strike. Implement the 3-2-1 backup rule today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your valuable data is safe and secure.

Just like you declutter your closet every now and then, it’s time to give your Chrome browser a digital cleaning! Outdated or unused extensions can pose a security risk and even slow down your browsing experience.

Think of extensions like little apps that live within your browser, adding extra functionality. While many are incredibly useful, some can become outdated, riddled with security vulnerabilities, or simply no longer serve a purpose in your browsing habits.

Why You Should Declutter Your Extensions:

• Security Risks: Outdated extensions can contain security holes that hackers can exploit to gain access to your computer or steal your data.
• Performance Issues: Cluttered extensions can slow down your browser, making it sluggish and unresponsive.
• Privacy Concerns: Some extensions may collect your browsing data without your knowledge.
• Reduced Clutter: Removing unused extensions simplifies your browser and improves its overall performance.

How to Declutter Your Chrome Extensions:

1. Review Your Extensions: Open Chrome and go to “chrome://extensions/” in the address bar. This will display a list of all your installed extensions.
2. Identify and Remove Unused Extensions: Go through the list and identify any extensions you no longer use. Click the “Remove” button next to each extension to uninstall it.
3. Update Existing Extensions: Check for updates to your existing extensions. Click the “Update” button for any extensions that have available updates.
4. Review Permissions: Pay close attention to the permissions requested by each extension. If an extension requests access to your location, camera, or microphone, ensure you trust the source and understand the reason for these permissions.

By taking a few minutes to declutter your Chrome extensions, you can enhance your browser’s security, improve its performance, and regain control of your online experience.

Your smartphone is more than just a phone – it’s a mini-computer that holds a treasure trove of personal information. From your contacts and photos to your banking apps and social media accounts, your phone is a valuable target for cybercriminals.

Fortunately, you can take simple steps to beef up your phone’s defenses and keep your data safe.

1. Update, Update, Update!

Software updates aren’t just about adding fancy new features. They often contain crucial security patches that fix vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit. Think of them as digital armor, strengthening your phone’s defenses against the latest threats. Make it a habit to install updates as soon as they become available.

2. Lock it Down with Strong Authentication

Your phone’s lock screen is your first line of defense. Ditch the simple four-digit passcode and opt for something more robust.

• Set a strong passcode: Choose a long, complex passcode that’s difficult to guess.
• Embrace biometrics: If your phone offers fingerprint or facial recognition unlock, take advantage of it. Biometric authentication adds an extra layer of security, making it much harder for someone to access your device without your permission.

3. Be Mindful of App Permissions

When you download an app, it often requests access to certain features on your phone, such as your location, contacts, or camera. Carefully review these permissions before granting access. If an app requests permissions that seem excessive, consider finding an alternative.

4. Beware of Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi networks, while convenient, can be insecure. Avoid accessing sensitive information, such as banking apps or social media accounts, while connected to public Wi-Fi. Consider using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to encrypt your internet traffic and protect your data when using public Wi-Fi.

5. Keep Your Apps Updated

Just like your phone’s operating system, apps also receive updates. These updates often include security patches that fix vulnerabilities and improve overall stability. Make it a habit to regularly update your apps to ensure they are running the latest and most secure versions.

By following these simple tips, you can significantly enhance your smartphone’s security and protect your personal information from cyber threats.

Tired of being bombarded with intrusive ads while you’re trying to browse the web? You’re not alone. Annoying pop-ups, auto-playing videos, and distracting banners can disrupt your online experience and even slow down your browsing speed. But there’s a solution: ad blockers.

Beyond Annoyance: A Security Shield

While many people use ad blockers to enhance their browsing experience, they also offer a significant security benefit. Malicious actors often exploit online advertising networks to distribute malware. These malicious ads can infect your device with viruses, spyware, and ransomware, putting your data at risk.

By blocking these ads, you significantly reduce your exposure to these threats. Ad blockers act as a first line of defense, filtering out potentially harmful content before it even reaches your computer.

Finding the Right Ad Blocker:

The browser extension ecosystem offers a wide range of ad-blocking options. When choosing an ad blocker, look for reputable options with a strong track record and a focus on user privacy.

• Consider features: Some ad blockers go beyond simply blocking ads. They can also block trackers that collect your browsing data, improve page loading speeds, and even enhance your privacy.
• Read reviews: See what other users have to say about different ad blockers. Look for extensions with high ratings and positive reviews.
• Prioritize user privacy: Choose an ad blocker that respects your privacy and doesn’t collect your personal data.

Taking Control of Your Online Experience

Installing an ad blocker is a simple yet powerful step towards reclaiming your online experience. By blocking intrusive ads and minimizing your exposure to malicious threats, you can browse the web more efficiently, securely, and enjoyably.

Publicly displaying your email address online is like leaving your front door wide open. Spammers and scammers can easily find and target you, leading to a constant barrage of unwanted emails.

Why You Should Use a Contact Form:

• Reduced Spam: Contact forms provide a layer of protection against spam. They make it harder for spam bots to automatically collect your email address.
• Increased Control: Contact forms allow you to control how and when you receive messages. You can choose to receive notifications for new messages, review them before responding, and even filter out spam messages.
• Improved Privacy: Contact forms can help protect your privacy by making it more difficult for spammers to collect your email address and other personal information.

How to Implement a Contact Form:

• Use Website Builders: Many website builders, such as WordPress and Wix, offer easy-to-use contact form plugins.
• Create a Custom Form: If you have basic coding skills, you can create a custom contact form using HTML and CSS.
• Use Third-Party Services: There are many third-party services available that allow you to create and embed contact forms on your website. Try Google Forms for a quick, code-free setup.

By using a contact form instead of publicly displaying your email address, you can significantly reduce the amount of spam you receive and enhance your online privacy.

Tired of worrying about germs on your physical cards or handling cash? Contactless payment methods like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay offer a hygienic and convenient alternative.

How Contactless Payments Work:

These systems use near-field communication (NFC) technology to transmit payment information securely. Simply tap your phone or a compatible card near the payment terminal, and the transaction is complete.

Benefits of Going Contactless:

• Enhanced Hygiene: Minimize contact with potentially contaminated surfaces like cash and card readers.
• Increased Speed: Contactless payments are typically faster than traditional card payments.
• Enhanced Security: Many contactless payment systems utilize advanced security features like tokenization, which replaces your actual card number with a unique code.
• Convenience: Easily pay for purchases with just a tap of your phone or card.

Getting Started with Contactless Payments:

• Check Card Compatibility: Ensure your credit or debit card is equipped with contactless payment technology (look for the contactless symbol).
• Set Up Mobile Wallets: If you have a compatible smartphone, download and set up a mobile wallet like Apple Pay or Google Pay.
• Find Contactless Terminals: Look for the contactless payment symbol at the checkout counter.

By embracing contactless payments, you can enjoy a more hygienic and convenient shopping experience while enhancing your overall security.

We’ve all been there. Your inbox is flooded with unwanted emails – those annoying advertisements, suspicious offers, and those chain letters your grandma keeps forwarding. While it’s tempting to just delete them, it’s important to remember that clicking on links or replying to spam emails can have unintended consequences.

Why You Should Never Click on Links in Spam Emails:

• You’re Feeding the Bots: Spammers use automated systems to send out emails en masse. By clicking on links, you’re essentially confirming that your email address is valid and active. This can lead to a surge in spam emails.
• Phishing Risks: Malicious links can redirect you to phishing websites designed to steal your personal information, such as login credentials or credit card details.
• Malware Infections: Clicking on links can download malware onto your device, such as viruses, ransomware, or spyware.

What to Do With Spam Emails:

• Don’t Reply: Never reply to spam emails, even if they offer an “unsubscribe” option. This can actually confirm your email address and lead to more spam.
• Mark as Spam: Most email clients have a “spam” or “junk” folder. Mark spam emails as such to help your email provider filter out future messages from the same sender.
• Delete Immediately: Don’t open or read spam emails. Delete them immediately to avoid any potential risks.
• Be Wary of Attachments: Never open attachments from unknown senders, even if they appear to be from a friend or colleague.

By following these simple tips, you can effectively combat spam and protect your inbox from unwanted messages. Remember, your inbox is your domain – take control and keep it spam-free!

Ever receive an email urging you to “confirm” or “update” your personal information? It might seem official but be cautious! Phishing scams often use this tactic to steal your sensitive data.

Why You Shouldn’t Share Personal Info Through Emails:

• Reputable Organizations Don’t Ask This Way: Legitimate banks, colleges, or companies typically won’t request personal information via email. They have secure online portals for such updates.
• Phishing Emails Look Real: Scammers can cleverly mimic real companies’ logos and email addresses, making them appear trustworthy.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Don’t Click on Links or Attachments: Phishing emails often contain links or attachments that can download malware onto your device or redirect you to fake websites designed to steal your information.
• Verify Sender Information: Look closely at the sender’s email address. Does it match the organization’s official domain? Even a slight misspelling can be a red flag.
• Never Share Personal Information: If an email asks for your Social Security number, credit card details, or other sensitive data, don’t reply!

Here’s What to Do If You Suspect a Phishing Email:

• Delete the Email Immediately: Don’t click on anything within the email. Simply move it to your trash folder.
• Report the Email: Most email providers have a way to report phishing attempts. This helps them identify and block future scams.
• Contact the Organization Directly: If you’re unsure about an email’s legitimacy, contact the organization directly through a trusted source, such as their official website or a phone number you know is correct.

By following these tips, you can protect yourself from phishing scams and keep your personal information safe.

We all love a good deal, and the idea of getting paid apps for free might be tempting. However, downloading apps from unofficial sources can be a risky game.

Why You Should Stick to Official App Stores (like the Google Play Store or Apple App Store):

• Security: App stores have strict guidelines and security measures in place. They review apps before they’re listed, which helps to minimize the risk of malware infections.
• Privacy: Apps downloaded from official stores are more likely to respect your privacy and not collect excessive personal data.
• Quality Control: App stores have a system for user reviews and ratings, which can help you choose reliable and high-quality apps.
• Reduced Risk of Malware: Downloading apps from unofficial sources significantly increases your risk of installing malware, which can steal your personal information, damage your device, or even use your phone to participate in malicious activities.

What to Watch Out For:

• Jailbreaking/Rooting: Jailbreaking (iOS) or rooting (Android) your device can compromise its security and make it more vulnerable to malware.
• Sideloading Apps: Installing apps from sources other than the official app store is called “sideloading” and can be risky.

Protect Your Device:

Stick to official app stores for all your app downloads. This simple step can significantly reduce your risk of malware infections and help you keep your device and your personal information safe.

Traveling for work or pleasure? Don’t forget about your cybersecurity! Public Wi-Fi hotspots can be convenient, but they also pose significant security risks.

Here’s how to stay safe when using public Wi-Fi:

1. Verify Network Legitimacy:
   • Before connecting to any public Wi-Fi network, confirm its name and any login requirements with hotel staff, airport personnel, or café employees.
   • Be wary of networks with names that are slightly misspelled or appear overly generic.
2. Avoid Sensitive Activities:
   • Refrain from accessing sensitive information, such as online banking, online shopping, or social media accounts, on unsecured public Wi-Fi.
   • If you must access sensitive information, use your own mobile hotspot as a more secure alternative.
3. Use a VPN:
   • A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet traffic, making it much harder for hackers to intercept your data.
   • Consider using a VPN when connected to public Wi-Fi to enhance your security.
4. Be Wary of Phishing:
   • Be cautious of suspicious emails, text messages, or websites while connected to public Wi-Fi.
   • Never click on links or download attachments from unknown sources.
5. Enable Two-Factor Authentication:
   • Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for all your online accounts.
   • This adds an extra layer of security, making it much harder for hackers to access your accounts even if they obtain your password.

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your travels while keeping your personal information and devices safe from cyber threats.

Video conferencing has become a staple in our lives, but it’s important to remember that your surroundings are visible to others. Before you hit that “join” button, take a moment to consider what’s in the background.

What to Avoid:

• Sensitive Information: Never display any sensitive information on your screen, such as passwords, financial documents, or confidential work materials.
• Private Conversations: Be mindful of background conversations. Avoid discussing sensitive topics or personal information that you wouldn’t want others to hear.
• Distracting Backgrounds: A cluttered or messy background can be unprofessional. Choose a neutral and professional backdrop for your video calls.

Tips for a Secure Video Conference:

• Clear Your Workspace: Before joining a call, quickly tidy up your workspace to remove any sensitive information or distracting clutter.
• Choose Your Location Wisely: Find a quiet and private location with a neutral background.
• Use a Virtual Background: Many video conferencing platforms offer virtual background options. This can help you create a professional and secure environment.

By taking these simple precautions, you can ensure your video conferences are both productive and secure.

Ever received an email with an enticing subject line, only to find it’s filled with suspicious images? Those images might not just be pretty pictures – they could be hiding malicious code designed to infect your computer.

Why Disable Auto-Loading Images?

• Hidden Malware: Images embedded in emails can sometimes contain hidden malware, like viruses or spyware.
• Tracking Your Activity: Image files can be used to track whether you’ve opened an email, even if you don’t click on any links.
• Protecting Your Privacy: Disabling image loading helps protect your privacy by preventing websites from tracking your activity.

How to Disable Auto-Loading Images in Gmail:

1. Open Gmail: Log in to your Gmail account.
2. Access Settings: Click on the gear icon in the top right corner and select “Settings.”
3. Find Image Settings: Scroll down to the “Images” section.
4. Choose “Ask before displaying external images.” This option allows you to manually choose which images to load.

For Mobile Users:

• Open the Gmail app: Tap on your profile picture in the top left corner.
• Select “Settings.”
• Choose “General.”
• Scroll down to “Images” and select “Ask before displaying external images.”

By disabling auto-loading images, you can enhance your email security and reduce the risk of infection from malicious content.

Just like phishing emails, “smishing” attacks use deceptive tactics to trick you into revealing personal information or downloading malicious software. But instead of targeting your inbox, these scams arrive via text message.

How Smishing Attacks Work:

• Spoofed Numbers: Scammers often use spoofed phone numbers to make it appear as though the message is from a legitimate source, like your bank or a delivery service.
• Urgent Messages: Smishing attacks often create a sense of urgency, urging you to click on a link or take immediate action.
• Shortened Links: Be wary of links that are shortened using services like bit.ly or goo.gl. These links can mask the true destination of the website.
• Requests for Personal Information: Scammers may ask for your Social Security number, bank account details, or other sensitive information.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Be Skeptical of Unexpected Texts: Don’t click on links or download attachments from unexpected text messages, even if they appear to be from a legitimate source.
• Verify Information: If you receive a text message requesting personal information, verify the request by contacting the organization directly through a known phone number or official website.
• Use a Strong Password: Create a strong, unique password for your mobile device and enable two-factor authentication.
• Report Suspicious Texts: Report suspicious text messages to your mobile carrier and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

By being vigilant and following these tips, you can protect yourself from smishing attacks and keep your personal information safe.

The “Internet of Things” (IoT) is a buzzword, but what does it really mean? Simply put, it refers to everyday objects that are now connected to the internet.

Think beyond your laptop or phone. We’re talking about refrigerators that can order groceries, thermostats that learn your preferences, and even light bulbs you can control with your voice. These “smart” devices are equipped with sensors and software that allow them to collect and exchange data, often with other devices or systems.

Here’s how IoT is changing our lives:

• Smart Homes: Imagine a home that adjusts the temperature, dims the lights, and even waters the plants based on your preferences. IoT makes this a reality.
• Healthcare: Wearable devices like fitness trackers and smartwatches monitor our health, while connected medical devices can improve patient care.
• Transportation: Self-driving cars, connected traffic systems, and smart grids are just a few examples of how IoT is revolutionizing transportation.

While IoT offers incredible convenience and efficiency, it also presents new security challenges. As more devices become interconnected, the potential for cyberattacks increases.

Your smartphone is a treasure trove of personal information. From banking apps to social media accounts, it holds sensitive data you want to keep private. That’s why strong security measures are essential.

1. Set a Strong Lock Screen:

• Choose a robust lock screen: Ditch the simple swipe pattern. Opt for a strong PIN (at least 6 digits), a complex pattern, or even better, fingerprint or facial recognition.
• Enable Auto-Lock: Set your phone to automatically lock after a short period of inactivity. This minimizes the window of opportunity for someone to access your device if you leave it unattended.

2. Utilize a Password Manager:

• Stop Reusing Passwords: Never use the same password for multiple accounts.
• Embrace Password Managers: Invest in a reliable password manager like 1Password, LastPass, or Bitwarden. These tools generate and securely store strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts.
• Master Password is Key: You’ll only need to remember one master password to access all your other passwords within the manager.

3. Be Mindful of Your Surroundings:

• Never leave your phone unattended in public places.
• Be aware of your surroundings and always keep an eye on your device.

By implementing these simple steps, you can significantly enhance the security of your mobile device and protect your valuable data from unauthorized access.

Ever feel like someone else might be snooping around your Google Account? Maybe you noticed an unfamiliar device logged in, or you’re just feeling a little uneasy. Good news! You can easily check which devices are currently accessing your account.

Here’s how:

1. Access Your Google Account: Open any Google app (like Gmail or Google Maps) and click on your profile picture in the top right corner.
2. Go to Account Management: Select “Manage your Google Account.”
3. Navigate to Security: In the left-hand menu, click on “Security.”
4. Check Your Devices: Look for the section titled “Your Devices.” This will show you a list of devices currently signed in to your Google Account, including their location (if available) and last activity.

What to Do if You See Something Suspicious:

• Review the List: Carefully review the list of devices. If you see a device you don’t recognize, immediately sign out of that device.
• Change Your Password: After signing out of suspicious devices, change your Google Account password immediately.
• Enable Two-Factor Authentication: For added security, enable two-factor authentication on your Google Account. This will require a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone, whenever you sign in.

By regularly checking which devices are accessing your Google Account, you can proactively identify and address any potential security threats.

Staring at screens all day can take a toll on your eyes. Whether you’re working on a computer, scrolling through social media on your phone, or binge-watching your favorite shows, it’s important to give your eyes a rest.

Here are a few tips to reduce eye strain:

• The 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This helps to relax your eyemuscles.  
• Adjust Your Screen Brightness: Adjust the brightness of your screen to match the ambient light in your environment. Avoid working in dim lighting or with excessive glare.
• Optimize Your Workstation:
  • Position your monitor at eye level to minimize neck strain.
  • Ensure proper lighting in your workspace to reduce eye strain.
  • Take frequent breaks to stand up, stretch, and move around.
• Utilize Zoom Features: Use keyboard shortcuts to adjust text size:
  • Windows: Ctrl + “+” to zoom in, Ctrl + “-” to zoom out
  • Mac: Command + “+” to zoom in, Command + “-” to zoom out.
• Consider Blue Light Filters:
  • Blue light emitted from screens can disrupt sleep patterns.
  • Consider using blue light filtering glasses or enabling the night shift mode on your devices.

Remember to prioritize eye health and take regular breaks to prevent eye strain and fatigue.

Traveling for business or pleasure? Don’t forget about cybersecurity! With increased reliance on our devices, it’s crucial to stay protected while on the go.

1. Update, Update, Update!

• Software Updates: Keep your devices (laptops, smartphones, tablets) updated with the latest operating system and software patches. These updates often include critical security fixes that protect against the latest threats.
• Antivirus Software: Invest in reliable antivirus software and ensure it’s updated regularly. This provides a crucial first line of defense against malware and other threats.

2. Secure Your Wi-Fi Connections:

• Beware of Public Wi-Fi: Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities like online banking or shopping. If you must use public Wi-Fi, use a VPN to encrypt your internet traffic.
• Strong Passwords: Create strong, unique passwords for your Wi-Fi network and all your devices.

3. Protect Your Devices:

• Lock Your Devices: Always lock your devices when not in use.
• Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your devices at all times.
• Use a Travel Lock: Consider using a travel lock to secure your laptop to a fixed object, especially in public spaces.

4. Be Wary of Phishing Attacks:

• Be cautious of suspicious emails, text messages, or phone calls.
• Never click on links or download attachments from unknown senders.
• Verify the authenticity of websites before entering any personal information.

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your travels with peace of mind, knowing that your devices and personal information are protected.

Your Android phone holds a treasure trove of personal information – from your contacts and photos to your banking apps and social media accounts. Leaving it unlocked, even for a short time, can have serious consequences.

Why a Screen Timeout is Crucial:

• Unauthorized Access: If someone gains access to your unlocked phone, they can potentially:

• Access your personal data, including photos, messages, and financial information.
• Make calls or send messages on your behalf.
• Install malicious apps.
• Make purchases using your payment apps.
• Data Breaches: If your phone is lost or stolen, a screen lock can help prevent unauthorized access to your data.

Setting Up Your Screen Timeout:

• Access Display Settings: Go to Settings on your Android device and navigate to the Display section.
• Adjust Timeout Duration: Look for the “Screen timeout” or “Sleep” setting.
• Choose a Short Duration: Select a short timeout duration, such as 30 seconds or 1 minute.
• Enable Screen Lock: Ensure that your device is locked immediately after the screen times out. You can choose from various lock options, such as a PIN, pattern, or fingerprint.

Remember:

• Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: Always be mindful of your phone’s surroundings and avoid leaving it unattended in public places.
• Utilize Other Security Features: Utilize other security features like Find My Device to locate and remotely lock your phone in case of loss or theft.

By setting a short screen timeout and enabling a strong screen lock, you can significantly enhance the security of your Android device and protect your personal information.