Online Security

Navigating the web safely and protecting your online presence.

Secure Browsing Habits

Protect yourself while navigating the web:

Use HTTPS Everywhere

Ensure websites use HTTPS (indicated by a lock icon in the address bar). This encrypts the connection between your browser and the website. Browser extensions like "HTTPS Everywhere" (from EFF) can help enforce this on sites that support it but don't default to it.

Beware of Phishing Sites

Double-check URLs for misspellings (e.g., `g00gle.com` instead of `google.com`) or unusual domains (`yourbank.login.xyz.com`). Be extremely wary of urgent requests for personal information, especially if initiated from an email or message link.

Keep Your Browser Updated

Browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, Brave) receive frequent security patches for newly discovered vulnerabilities. Enable automatic updates in your browser settings.

Use Privacy-Focused Browsers/Extensions

Consider browsers like Brave (built-in tracker/ad blocking) or Firefox (strong privacy features). Essential extensions include uBlock Origin (highly effective ad and malware domain blocker) and Privacy Badger (blocks invisible trackers).

Phishing Prevention

Phishing attempts trick you into revealing sensitive information (passwords, credit card numbers, etc.) by impersonating legitimate entities. Recognize the signs:

Urgency or Threats

Messages creating a false sense of urgency ("Your account will be closed!", "Suspicious activity detected!").

Requests for Sensitive Information

Legitimate organizations rarely ask for login credentials, full SSN, or credit card details via email or unsolicited messages.

Public Wi-Fi Safety

Public Wi-Fi networks (cafes, airports, hotels) are inherently less secure than your home network. Assume others might be trying to eavesdrop. Take precautions:

Use a VPN (Highly Recommended)

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts all your internet traffic, creating a secure tunnel through the public network. This is the most effective protection on public Wi-Fi. Choose a reputable VPN provider.

Social Media Security

Review Privacy Settings Regularly

Platforms frequently change settings. Limit who can see your posts, friend list, and personal information (birthdate, location). Make your profile less public.

Security Checklist

  • Browser is kept up-to-date (automatic updates enabled)
  • Using HTTPS whenever possible (consider HTTPS Everywhere extension)
  • Aware of phishing signs and know how to report suspicious messages/sites
  • Using a reputable VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi
  • Reviewed and tightened social media privacy settings recently
  • MFA enabled on all important social media accounts
  • Regularly clearing unnecessary cookies/site data or using tools to manage them
  • File sharing disabled when on public networks
  • Automatic Wi-Fi connection disabled