Cyber-Hygiene Tips to Keep Consumers Safe

Date: 06/01/2022

Online safety, or cyber-hygiene, is an important and evolving topic. Below, the Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC) highlights some best practices and steps you can take to improve your online security. The ITRC recommends making these cyber-hygiene tips part of your regular routine to greatly reduce the risk of identity theft and other cybersecurity compromises.

1. Get educated about the terms of service and other policies.

Understanding the terms of service and other policies is important because you may have agreed to have your information stored and sold, automatic renewals, location-based monitoring, and more once you checked the box.

2. You can use paid anti-virus, but it is likely not needed.

Anti-virus is a kind of software designed to scan, detect and delete viruses from a computer. It protects your computeragainst malware that is deployed by cybercriminals and bots. Once anti-virus is installed, the software usually runs automatically in the background to provide real-time protection against known attacks. However, with the advancement of cloud-based software and modern mobile devices, most computers and laptops have anti-virus built into the operating system.

3. Set up all online accounts (email, financial, shopping, etc.) with two-factor or multi-factor authentication.

Two-factor authentication (2FA) or multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of protection to your accounts. They require at least two separate verification steps to log into an account, like a text code, phone call, or through an app. Relying on a minimum of two methods of login credentials before accessing accounts will make it harder for a hacker to gain access. If possible, use 2FA with an app. Text messages and phone calls can be spoofed.

4. Use secure payment methods when shopping online.

Only shop on trusted websites and use trusted payment methods. Don’t use payment portals or shop on websites you are not familiar with, even if they were found on a social media platform like Instagram. If you have to shop on an unfamiliar site, use a payment instrument with a dispute resolution process – like a reputable credit card or PayPal.

5. Use unique passphrases for every website and account, and update them regularly.

The best practice is to use 12+ character passphrases instead of an eight-character password. A passphrase is easier to remember and harder for identity criminals to crack. Also, employ unique passphrases for each website to avoid credential stuffing (when hackers gain access to multiple accounts due to password reuse).

6. Never open a link from an unknown source.

Do not click on links or download attachments via email or text unless you expect something from a person or business you know. If it is spam, the link or attachment could download malware on your device. Also, never enter personally identifiable information (PII) or payment information on websites and web forms that are not secure or fully vetted.

7. Make sure devices are password protected with passcodes, locks or biometric authentication.

If devices are not password protected, it is much easier for a criminal to share or steal your personal information. Without a layer of protection or authentication to access the device, all the information you’ve saved on it becomes accessible. Use a PIN code, pattern or biometric recognition to lock your devices. Set the same protection for apps with access to sensitive information (banking apps, credit card management, etc.).

8. Log out of accounts when you are finished using them.

This is another bad habit that makes it much easier for someone to steal and share your information. Always log out of accounts online and on cell phone apps when done so no one can get easy access to them if they have control of your device.

While there is nothing that can be done to eliminate identity theft, account takeovers and other malicious intent, these cyber-hygiene tips will help keep consumers safe, as well as reduce the number of cybercrime victims. Anyone who believes they have been a victim of identity theft or has questions about cyber-hygiene tips can call the ITRC toll-free at 888.400.5530 to speak with an expert advisor or live-chat on our website www.idtheftcenter.org.

This post was originally published on 7/16/20 and was updated on 6/1/22


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