The National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA), is a consortium of government agencies and private industry sponsors. National Cyber Security Awareness Month is a national campaign designed to increase awareness of cyber security and cyber crime so that users can take precautions to avoid these threats on the Internet. The National Cyber Security Alliance's Top Eight Cyber Security Practices are steps you can take to stay safe online and avoid becoming a victim of fraud, identity theft, or cyber crime.
- Protect your personal information. If you're asked for your personal information learn how it's going to be used, and how it will be protected, before you share it.
- Know who you're dealing with online. A legitimate business or individual seller should give you a physical address and a working telephone number at which they can be contacted in case you have problems.
- Use anti-virus software, a firewall, and anti-spyware software to help keep your computer safe and secure.
- Be sure to set up your operating system and Web browser software properly, and update them regularly. Decrease your risk by changing the settings in your browser or operating system to increase your online security.
- Use strong passwords or strong authentication technology to help protect your personal information. Keep your passwords in a secure place, and out of plain view. Don't share your passwords on the Internet, over email, or on the phone. Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) should never ask for your password.
- Back up important files. No system is completely secure. If you have important files stored on your computer, copy them onto a removable disc, and store them in a secure place, preferably away from your computer.
- Learn what to do if something goes wrong. Be aware of any unusual or unexpected behaviors.
- Protect your children online.
Read the full story at: http://www.staysafeonline.org/practices/index.html