8 tips for staying safe online

Using computers, smartphones or tablets has made everyday activities such as shopping, banking, paying bills and keeping in touch fast and easy ... anytime, anywhere. However there are a number of risks associated with going online:

1. PUT A PIN ON IT

Whether it's a phone, website or a social media account, always use a PIN or Password. Never use the same password, make sure it is hard to guess (don't use your pet's name, your birthday or your favourite football team) and never share your passwords with anyone.
 

2. SECURE THE Wi-Fi

Make sure your home Wi-Fi is protected with a strong password that only you and your family know. When out and about, never use a hotspot that may be unsecured, especially when what you are doing is personal or private.
 

3. LOG-OUT and LOG-OFF

Always make sure you log out of your accounts when you've finished with them and log off a computer when you've finished using it. 4. MANAGE YOUR MESSAGES Never open or forward a suspicious looking email, or respond to a social media message from someone you don't know.
 

5. BE SOFTWARE SAVVY

Protect all your devices with anti-virus software and make sure your regularly install updates to any programs or apps, as they often include improved security settings.
 

6. POST IN HASTE, REPENT AT LEISURE

What goes online stays online so never say anything that could offend, hurt, anger or endanger yourself or someone else.
 

7. KEEP IT PRIVATE

Check the privacy settings on all of your social media accounts so that only the people you want to share information with can see it.
 

8. REPORT IT

If you are a victim of online fraud, report it. This way we can all help to make the internet a safer place, www.actionfraud.police.uk

9. For more information go to the Get Safe On-line website https://getsafeonline.org/