Security tips: Protect yourself online
In light of the abundance of tips and rules available, even creating a secure password can quickly seem like a major challenge. Do not despair, however: navigating the World Wide Web safely is much easier than you might think. We have compiled a list of the most useful and easy-to-follow tips for your online safety.
Five golden rules
Follow these simple steps to stay safe online.
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HTTPS: |
Only visit secure websites |
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Password: |
Choose a short sentence for optimum security |
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Updates: |
Keep your software up to date |
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E-mail: |
Never open attachments from unknown contacts |
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Protection: |
Use antivirus software, firewalls and backups |
Password
Protect yourself with a secure code.
The easiest and most important way to protect your devices and content is to set up secure passwords. The more complex the better. Just make sure you don’t forget them. Your best option is to think of a memorable short sentence, such as “I love 68 rock music”. Secure your computers, tablets, mobile phones and routers with different codes. Please use touch ID, face recognition, 2-factor authentication or Mobile ID if possible.
Safe surfing
Our tips for safe Internet use.
Only visit secure websites. These are preceded by the acronym “https” and are identifiable by the green padlock icon. Keep your software up to date at all times.This includes your operating system, browser, antivirus software and firewall. Only open or install files or software from known sources. Exercise caution when disclosing personal information. To protect your privacy, you can enable private browsing which means that no information about visited websites, searches or form entries will be stored.
How to avoid phishing and spam.
Don't forget: attachments and links are particularly dangerous .Never open attachments to an unexpected order confirmation or refund, even if it seems like a nice surprise! And if you receive an e-mail from Apple or other known provider, stating that your account has been blocked, never follow the link to reset your account. These are sophisticated scams that could have an unhappy ending.
Apps
Protect your privacy.
Apps are a wonderful thing. They often offer useful services at no cost but they also collect all sorts of data without our knowledge, accessing camera, microphone and location data as well as our contacts and appointments. Think about what personal data you wish to share with the providers of these apps and, if necessary, restrict access in your settings.
Advertising
Settings for tracking and targeting.
Whenever you visit a company's website, it saves data to your device in order to identify you on your next visit and provide information in a more targeted manner. In some ways, this is a good thing, because it saves you time and the company money by avoiding irrelevant communication. If you wish to opt out, however, you can delete this data at any time or block it from the outset.
Social media
Be careful what you share.
Think carefully about what you post online about yourself and others. What are you disclosing about yourself, who can see your posts and how will it be perceived now and in the future? Only post things about other people that you would be happy for them to post about you. Social media is more or less public and all providers analyse the data of their customers for other commercial purposes.
Further help and advice is available from the following federal agencies:
Campaign
The Web - a safe place for all!
You would always look left and right before crossing a road. The Internet is no different. Three simple precautions are all it takes to navigate the Internet safely.
STOP
Before accessing the Internet, take a moment to consider the risks and find out how to identify potential problems.
THINK
Check whether the address you have selected is safe. Be alert for warning signs and consider whether your online activities could pose a risk to your security or that of your family.
CONNECT
You can now navigate the Internet more freely because you can be confident you have taken the necessary steps to protect you and your computer.