Welcome to Week 3 of Cyber Month.  This week we’re going to look at Safe Browsing and how we can connect  to and use the Internet in a safe manner.  Ready?  Here we go…

 

First, why “Safe Browsing?”  Good question.  Here’s one example:

 

Many of us have been there. Twelve shopping tabs deep on your browser as you’re researching the just-right product to purchase. Then, a window pops up that encourages you to play a game of cards or accept a gift you just won. This is a classic example of a drive-by download—cyberattacks that install malware onto your devices without your knowledge. And with over 1.1 billion sites currently active on the internet, we want you to be well-versed when it comes to this very relevant cybersecurity threat. (courtesy Norton Lifelock)

 

And that’s just one tactic the cyber criminals can use to try and take control of our computers, access our information, etc.  Let’s start the week with a look at how to stay safe when browsing the ‘Net:

 

Staying Safe on Public Wi-Fi

 

  • Remember: it’s Public –  you’re sharing  the wi-fi with others.
  • Confirm that you’re using the real connection.  E.g. If you saw “Starbucks-Guest” and “Starbucks-Public”… which would you choose? Best to ask.
  • Turn off auto-connect or “ask to join” features in your computer’s network settings.
  • Ensure your browser is up to date and that your firewall is enabled.
  • Avoid accessing bank accounts and other sensitive data when on public wi-fi.

 

We’ve got two videos with some additional tips. Check ‘em out:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X87MJEsJ91A (3 min)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0j7nq0Rb_Ck (2 min)
Is Online Shopping Safe?

 

For many people, online shopping is simply “shopping.” Who can resist one-click ordering and next-day delivery? However, it can present opportunities for scammers and cyber criminals.  Here’s a few tips:

 

  • Think before you click.  Remember – if it seems like it’s too good a deal to be true, it probably is.
  • Confirm offers you see in ads or emails by going to the company’s site.  The ad you’re looking at may be fake.
  • Pay with a credit card.  There are more consumer protections for credit card purchases if something goes wrong.
  • Avoid making online purchases over public wi-fi.

 

That’s just a few of the many things you can do to protect yourself when shopping on line.  Have a look at this video for more info:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uUhYuxAfRaI (2 min)

 
Browser Notifications (aka Push Notifications)

 

  • This is the technology that causes messages to pop up on your computer outside of your browser window.
  • Here’s a legitimate use of notifications:
  • Scammers use notifications to produce fake notifications like this:

 

Best Practices

  • KNOW that Microsoft, Apple, Google, and other tech giants DO NOT troll the Internet looking for infected computers.  If you EVER get a warning like you see here, chances are 100% it is a scam!

o   Click Escape or Alt/F4 to close your browser and the pop-up.

o   DO NOT, under any circumstances, call the number on the pop-up.

 

 

Next time we’ll tell you how a member of the RRU Community recently picked up Ransomware while browsing the web, and show you a different use of QR Codes.  Also…. Our most popular challenge returns.  ☺

 

As with all of our cybersecurity awareness materials, you are welcome to share this email with family and friends.

 

REMEMBER: STOP! THINK! CONNECT.