Online security is always a topic of interest in my computer classes for seniors and in our iPhone group. Many people are concerned that their online presence increases chances of them being scammed. Rightly so. But, there are some things you can do to decrease your vulnerability.
We’re halfway through January and you may have already failed to keep some of your resolutions for 2020. According to one source, only 8% of resolutions made in January are actually kept. :-/ But, below are 3 resolutions you should make and keep ALL year to improve your online safety.
1) Don’t ever click on a link in an email or text unless you are 100% sure it is legitimate. Go directly to the website of the company and log in to your account there. Links in fraudulent emails and text messages can be created to mask the actual URL of websites.
2) Don’t ever, ever, ever call a phone number that pops up on your device offering help or computer support. Microsoft and Apple will never send you a message asking to call them. They also will NEVER call to tell you they’ve noticed there are problems with your computer. That is ALWAYS a scam.
3) Don’t send any personal or financial information via email or text....to anyone. If you need to communicate that to a company, login to their secure website and enter the requested information or call them on the phone using a number that you are certain is legitimate.
One last caution for Windows 7 users: If you are using Windows 7 on a computer, today is the last day you should feel ”safe” doing that. Beginning tomorrow Microsoft will no longer provide updates or tech help for that operating system on home computers. Your computer will still “work”, but the lack of security updates will make your computer vulnerable to viruses, malware, etc. Don’t risk it; install Windows 10 today.
Be smart. Be safe. Be secure. Hope you all have a wonderful week!
Jeline
We have another new subscriber this week; welcome! All of my previous weekly tips can be found here: http://tuesdaytechtidbit.blogspot.com
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