Last updated on September 26, 2019
Cybersecurity risks are everywhere and are unpredictable. In today’s society, it’s convenient to have technology at your fingertips; however, our interconnected world makes us more prone to cybercrime. Whether you’re shopping online, reading a news article or even logging into your bank account, you’re leaving a series of breadcrumbs about who you are and where you’ve been. October is Cybersecurity Awareness month and Dallas Community Colleges wants to help you learn what you can do to secure and protect your data and devices.
How Can I Protect Myself From Cybercrime?
- Don’t open attachments from accounts you don’t recognize. It’s easy to accidentally open an email from someone you don’t know, so stay alert! If you don’t recognize the email address or sender, double-check and identify the source.
- Don’t respond to texts or emails that request personal information. Never reply with your personal information such as username or password.
- Ignore and delete phishing attempts. Just remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
- Update your software and apps regularly. We know, waiting for your computer or phone to update is a hassle, but it’s worth the wait. These updates contain security updates that help keep your information safe.
- Install anti-malware. Some software includes features that let you do automatic backups and track your device.
- Treat your devices like cash. Remember, cell phones aren’t just phones anymore. Smartphones can access your bank account, credit card information and other sensitive data. This also applies to laptops. Be sure to keep your devices locked.
- Create a secure wireless network. Configure your wireless router to protect your bandwidth, identifiable information and personal computer. Secure it with proper set up and placement, router configuration and a unique password using the strongest encryption option. See http://www.wi-fi.org/ for more tips.
- Check your Bluetooth and GPS access. Disable these settings on all devices when not needed and avoid using them in public areas.
Interested in Learning More About CyberSecurity?
- Learn more about mobile device safety from the STOP. THINK. CONNECT. campaign.
- Read two helpful Federal Trade Commission articles: “Understanding Mobile Apps” and “Disposing of Your Mobile Device.”
- Check out these mobile device tips from the National Cyber Security Alliance.
- Investigate Federal Communications Commission (FCC) resources, including a tip sheet on “Protecting Your Smart Device from Theft.”