7. Safe Internet Use

The internet is an integral part of our lives, yet it poses several risks that can compromise your security and privacy. In this guide, we’ll explore these risks and offer practical safety measures to safeguard your online activities.

Risks

When navigating the internet, you may encounter various risks, including:

• Malware: Viruses and spyware that can infect your device.
• Phishing: Attempts to steal personal or financial information through deceptive websites or emails.
• Fraud: Scams from fake shopping, banking, charity, and other deceptive websites.
• Inappropriate Content: Exposure to unexpected or harmful content.

Safe Internet Practices

To protect yourself online, follow these essential tips:

1. Trust Your Instincts: If a website feels suspicious or looks unprofessional, leave immediately.
2. Verify Contact Information: Legitimate websites typically display contact details like addresses and phone numbers. Verify these before proceeding.
3. Look for HTTPS and Padlock: Ensure the website uses ‘https://’ and displays a padlock icon in the browser address bar to indicate a secure connection.
4. Exercise Caution with Personal Information: Avoid entering sensitive information on websites that lack security indicators or request more data than necessary.
5. Seek Professional Advice: Before making any financial transactions or investments online, consult reputable sources to verify legitimacy.

Identifying Secure Websites

Before entering sensitive data:

• Look for the padlock symbol and ‘https://’ in the web address to ensure encryption and data protection.

Managing Cookies

Cookies are used by websites to store user information. Safeguard your privacy with these tips:

• Configure your browser to alert you when cookies are being used.
• Use anti-spyware tools to detect and manage tracking cookies.
• Consider cookie management programs to control and delete unwanted cookies.

Additional Safety Measures

• Browser Settings: Utilize browser features to block pop-ups, manage website permissions, and browse privately.
• Stay Updated: Keep your browser updated with the latest security patches and features.
• Privacy Awareness: Understand that while private browsing modes hide your history locally, your activities may still be visible to service providers and employers.

By adopting these practices, you can enhance your online safety and protect yourself from potential threats while enjoying the benefits of the internet.