1-800-282-0515

Internet Safety

October 30, 2017

The Internet has made a world of information and networking options available at our fingertips. But it has also given scam artists and other criminals a powerful tool to carry out their crimes. Keep up your guard and follow these tips for safe Internet usage:

  • Each computer, Internet browser, and mobile phone has different ways to adjust security and privacy features. An Internet search can help determine how to best protect a specific device or browser.
  • Operating systems and Internet browsers typically allow you to adjust security and/or privacy settings to your comfort level. Adjust Internet browser settings to at least “medium” security. These settings may, for example, filter out potentially harmful data and control the types of “cookies” that can be loaded by websites you visit. Cookies are sometimes used to track a user’s activity for marketing purposes.
  • Whenever you disclose personal or financial information over the Internet, look for the lock symbol and the “s” in “https:” at the beginning of the website address. The “s” means the site is secure.
  • If making online purchases, use a credit card instead of a debit card to best limit your financial risk in case personal information is misused.
  • Know that some scammers “phish” for personal information using e-mails or phone calls that appear to be from your bank or a government agency and seek personal information, such as bank account numbers, pass words, or Social Security numbers.
  • Never respond to unexpected requests for your personal information. Instead, contact the “source” at a phone number you trust. For example, call the phone number on your billing statement or the back of your credit card.