October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month—time to focus on safer ways to shop, search, socialize, and do everything else online. Throughout the month I’ll post articles to remind you of best practices for online activities.

The website StaySafeOnline.org provides tips and resources for learning how to protect yourself, your family, and your devices. Click on the links below to learn more about each topic.

Keeping a Clean Machine

Malware & Botnets. The Internet is a powerful and useful tool, but in the same way that you shouldn’t drive without buckling your seat belt or ride a bike without a helmet, you shouldn’t venture online without taking some basic precautions.

Spam & Phishing. Cybercriminals have become quite savvy in their attempts to lure people in and get you to click on a link or open an attachment.

Hacked Accounts. If your account has been compromised or hacked, here are ways to regain control.

Securing Your Home Network. A protected home network means your family can use the Internet safely and securely.

Protect Your Personal Information

Id Theft & Fraud. If you’re the victim of cybercrime, you need to know what to do and respond quickly.

Passwords & Securing Your Accounts. Logging onto a site with a password isn’t the only way to identify yourself to the web services you use.

Social Networks. Social networks are a great way to stay connected with others, but you should be wary about how much personal information you post.

Online Shopping. It’s important to take steps to protect yourself when shopping online.

Back It Up. Protect yourself against data loss by making electronic copies of important files, commonly referred to as a backup.

For Parents

Raising Digital Citizens. Teach your children to become good digital citizens with these resources.

Cyberbullying & Harassment. Cyberbullying can range from embarrassing or cruel online posts or digital pictures, to online threats, harassment, and negative comments, to stalking through emails, websites, social networks and text messages.

Parental Controls. Parental controls are available on most Internet-enabled devices, like computers, smartphones, tablets, gaming systems.

Gaming Tips. Online gaming fun for kids to connect with others, but it’s important for them to avoid posting pictures of themselves or releasing other personal information to their fellow gamers. They should also know what to do if another player starts harassing them.

Mobile & On-The-Go

Mobile Devices. Today’s mobile devices are as powerful and connected as any PC or laptop. Take the same precautions on your mobile device as you do on your computer with regard to messaging and online safety. The first step is STOP. THINK. CONNECT.

Mobile Parental Controls. Parental controls aren’t limited to just computers. Mobile devices have evolved into Internet-ready tools that can perform a variety of tasks. Enable mobile parental controls to ensure a safer, more secure online experience for your children.