It’s Cybersecurity Month

This October enjoy all that fall has to offer. There are the changing leaves, delicious fall recipes and the warmth and comfort of a cozy home.  After all, October is a month when we retrench back into our homes as the days grow shorter, and the temperatures get colder.  While spending more time indoors, many of us will also be spending more time on our computers searching out the latest deals, connecting with friends and family and getting the latest news. And while we like the convenience of doing such activities in the luxury of our favorite chair, there are some precautions to consider to make using our computer is a safe place.

In fact October is Cybersecurity Month.  In order to help make individuals and businesses more informed the National Cyber Security Alliance offers many tips to help us all stay more protected.

Protect Yourself with these STOP. THINK. CONNECT. Tips:

• Keep a clean machine: Having the latest security software, web browser, and operating system are the best defenses against viruses, malware, and other online threats.
• Automate software updates: Many software programs will automatically connect and update to defend against known risks. Turn on automatic updates if that’s an available option.
• Protect all devices that connect to the Internet: Along with computers, smart phones, gaming systems, and other web-enabled devices also need protection from viruses and malware.
• Plug & scan: “USBs” and other external devices can be infected by viruses and malware. Use your security software to scan them.
• Protect your $$: When banking and shopping, check to be sure the sites is security enabled. Look for web addresses with “https://” or “shttp://”, which means the site takes extra measures to help secure your information. “Http://” is not secure.
• Back it up: Protect your valuable work, music, photos, and other digital information by making an electronic copy and storing it safely.

For more great tips and information visit http://www.staysafeonline.org.