Security Best Practices for Email and Instant Messaging
Email and instant messaging (IM) are a great way to stay in touch with friends and family. However, using any of these communication resources will leave you vulnerable to viruses, spyware, spam, phishing scams, etc. There are some easy ways to keep your personal information safe.
Only open emails from senders you recognize – Simply opening an infected email can download a virus or spyware onto your computer. Worse yet, opening an attachment within an email can be potentially dangerous. Delete any email from senders that are unfamiliar to you. Also, never be tempted to reply to emails from people you don’t know.
Be careful who you give your email address to – Only provide your email address to friends and family. If you are going to sign up for any online website, try using a free webmail account for subscriptions or posting.
Beware of phishing scams – Beware of emails that ask for your personal information or offer links to websites. These scams pose as legitimate companies, like your bank, and try to lure you into handing over your personal information, like your account number or social security number. Never click on a link within an email – most companies and all financial institutions will never ask for information in this way.
Use additional defenses on your computer – Make sure you have installed a good antivirus program on your computer. Preferably, it should be one that checks your files in real time and analyzes your incoming and outgoing emails.
Be careful when using instant messaging – Never give out your personal information when instant messaging or accept strangers in your IM group. Use a nickname as your IM name to help protect your identity.
block it – Use strong passwords for your email, instant messaging and any website you sign up for. Strong passwords include uppercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Use a complex email address – Try to use letters and numbers in a unique combination to get rid of hackers.
Top 10 Spam Subject Lines Reported by AOL Members – August 2010
- scholarship money for education
- Returned mail: see transcript for details
- SEE PHOTOS OF SINGLES AVAILABLE IN YOUR AREA!!
- Credit card companies could erase your debt! See if you qualify for relief!
- Brain Game Quiz, Enjoy!
- Individual and family health plans: FROM $99.
- Pay off your house in 5-7 years
- Coupons for local restaurants now available for download
- MEMBER-ONLY DEALS on DESIGNER FASHIONS
- Someone invited you to view photos on MySpace
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