Protect Your Personal Information

1. Protect Your Personal Information

• Use Strong Passwords: Create complex passwords (at least 12 characters) and avoid using the same password across different sites. Use a password manager.
• Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Activate 2FA for social media, email, and banking accounts.
• Be Careful with Personal Info: Avoid sharing your full name, home address, phone number, or workplace on public profiles.

2. Stay Safe on Social Media

• Review Privacy Settings: Set your social media accounts to private and control who can see your posts.
• Limit Location Sharing: Avoid posting real-time locations, especially if you’re alone.
• Be Cautious with Friend Requests: Don’t accept friend requests from unknown or suspicious profiles.

3. Protect Against Cyberstalking & Harassment

• Block & Report Harassers: Don’t engage with online trolls; instead, block and report them.
• Monitor Your Digital Footprint: Search your name on Google regularly to see what information is available publicly.
• Use a VPN: This helps mask your IP address and location.

4. Safe Online Shopping & Banking

• Use Secure Websites: Only shop from HTTPS-enabled websites.
• Beware of Scams: If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Avoid clicking on suspicious links in emails or messages.
• Check Bank Statements: Regularly monitor your bank transactions for unauthorized charges.

5. Secure Your Devices

• Keep Software Updated: Ensure your phone, laptop, and apps have the latest security updates.
• Use Antivirus Software: Protect your devices from malware and viruses.
• Lock Your Devices: Use PINs, fingerprints, or facial recognition to lock your phone and laptop.

6. Be Cautious with Online Dating & Messaging

• Use a Secondary Email/Number: Don’t share your main email or phone number with people you just met online.
• Video Call Before Meeting: This helps verify the identity of the person you’re talking to.
• Meet in Public Places: If meeting someone from an app, do it in a safe, public location and inform a friend.

7. Recognize & Avoid Phishing Attacks

• Don’t Click Suspicious Links: Cybercriminals use fake emails or messages to steal data.
• Verify Before Sharing Information: Always double-check if an email or request is legitimate.
• Use Official Apps & Websites: Avoid downloading apps or visiting sites from unverified sources.

8. Backup Your Data

• Use Cloud & External Storage: Regularly back up important files to prevent data loss from cyberattacks.