Protect Yourself Online
Top Tips
Internet security is an ongoing challenge – but here are some top tips that The Internet Industry Association recommends be taken to help ensure that your computer stays adequately protected for a safer and more secure online experience.
1. Take action immediately if you suspect your computer has been compromised.
Report unauthorised access to the police. Change your passwords immediately and contact your bank if you suspect personal financial information has been stolen.
2. Keep your anti-virus and other security software updated.
3. Install a firewall to prevent unauthorised access to your computer.
4. Turn on automatic updates so that all your software receives the latest fixes.
5. Get a stronger password and change it regularly.
6. Stop and think before you click on links or attachments.
Don’t open suspicious emails or attachments from unknown sources. Don’t click on links in emails requesting your personal details.
7. Check your “sent items” file or “outgoing” email.
If you find unknown messages in your out box, it is a sign that your computer may be infected with spyware, and may be part of a botnet. This isn’t foolproof: many spammers have learned to hide their unauthorised access.
8. Stop and think before you share any personal or financial information about yourself, your friends or family online.
9. Configure your wireless network securely.
If you are using a wireless router/modem, enable the security features with a strong password. Use WPA or WPA2 encryption on your Wi-Fi equipment (WEP is an older standard and is less secure). Refer to your router/modem manual or contact your ISP for further details.
10. Know what your children are doing online.
Make sure they know how to stay safe and encourage them to report anything suspicious. For further information about online safety go to the Australian Government’s Cybersafety website: www.cybersmart.gov.au
Where can I access more information and tools about online security?
| The Australian Communications and Media Authority |
www.cybersmart.gov.au
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Internet Industry Association
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www.security.iia.net.au
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The icode
How you can protect against and remediate compromised computers.
The icode is a new voluntary code of practice launched in 2010 for Australian Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to help protect their customers and networks. Activ8me is confirmed as being icode compliant.
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www.icode.net.au
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The Australian Goverment's cyber security website - Stay Smart Online
WARNING: The Government's Stay Smart Online website is optimised for Windows 7 and is resource intensive. If you have an older version of Windows including XP, clicking on this link may affect your internet speeds. |
www.staysmartonline.gov.au
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