Understanding Online Security
What is online security and why is it important?
Online security is what you do to keep your family safe from cyber threats that can harm your devices, steal your personal information, and even cause financial loss.
In this article we will help you to understand scams, viruses, identity theft and network security.
Scams
Scammers try to trick you into giving away your private information or money. Be cautious of phishing emails, phone calls, messages, or websites.
Potential risks: Losing money, identity theft, malware.
How to stay safe: Don't click on links from people you don't know, and never share your private info online.
- Avoid scams online - Resources and top tips to avoid being scammed. (reading time: 5 minutes)
- Online scams -Learn how to spot a scam and what to do if you've been scammed. (reading time: 8 minutes)
- We are making Australia a harder target for scammers - Learn how to identify and report a scam, and what to do if you've been scammed. (reading time: 8 minutes)
Viruses
Viruses are nasty programs that can damage your device.
Potential risks: Data loss, device damage, privacy breach.
How to stay safe: Get good antivirus software and update it regularly. Don't download files or apps from untrusted sources.
- Protect my PC from viruses - This Microsoft Support article explains how you can protect your device from viruses. (reading time: 8 minutes)
- Antivirus software - Learn how to secure your device with built-in and third-part antivirus software. (reading time: 12 minutes)
Identity Theft
Identity theft is when someone steals your personal information to pretend to be you.
Potential risks: Losing money, credit damage, account breach.
How to stay safe: Use strong and different passwords for each online account and turn on extra security measures like multifactor authentication.
- What is: Multifactor Authentication - Detailed information about multifactor authentication. (reading time: 6 minutes)
- Making accounts more secure with multi-factor authentication - Video - understanding multifactor authentication. (running time: 2:28 minutes)
- Create and use strong passwords - Detailed instructions on how to create and secure strong password.(reading time: 8 minutes)
- What is ID Care? - Learn what to do if you experience identify theft. (reading time: 12 minutes)
Insecure Wi-Fi Networks
Some Wi-Fi networks aren't safe and can let people see your stuff. This includes Wi-Fi from a library, airport, coffee shop and more.
Potential risks: Data exposure, privacy breach, hacking.
How to stay safe: Make sure your home Wi-Fi has a strong password and is encrypted. Don't use public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities like banking or shopping.
- Secure your Wi-Fi and router - Step by step guide to improve your Wi-Fi router security. (reading time: 10 minutes)
- Connecting to public Wi-Fi and hotspots - Top tips to use public Wi-Fi and hotspots safely. (reading time: 10 minutes)
- Have you been hacked? - Self-help questioner to find out what to do if you think you’re the victim of cybercrime.(N/A)
By following these simple steps and staying informed about online security, you can protect your family from online threats and enjoy a safer online experience!
Glossary
- Account breach: Unauthorised access to your online accounts.
- Credit damage: Harm to your credit score or financial reputation.
- Data exposure: Your personal information is being seen or accessed by unauthorised parties.
- Hacking: Unauthorised access to computer systems or networks.
- Malware: Malicious software that can harm your devices or steal your information.
- Phishing: When scammers try to steal your personal information by pretending to be trusted sources.
- Privacy breach: Unauthorised access to your personal information.
End of article
