Staying safe online requires a combination of awareness, good habits, and the right tools.

One of the most important steps is to never share personal information like your Social Security number, bank details, or passwords with anyone unless you are absolutely certain of their identity and the security of the platform.

Cybercriminals commonly disguise themselves as trusted organizations—including the IRS, PayPal, or your bank—to manipulate you into surrendering personal data.

Always double check the website url and look for signs of authenticity, such as a padlock icon in the address bar and a proper domain name.

Avoid opening links or files in unsolicited messages—particularly those that pressure you with threats or time-sensitive demands.

Fraudulent messages frequently exploit anxiety by claiming your account is compromised, suspended, or about to be terminated.

Before clicking any link, pause and hover your mouse to reveal the true destination URL.

If something looks suspicious, go directly to the official website by typing the address yourself instead of using the link provided.

Avoid reusing passwords—generate high-entropy credentials for each account and let a trusted password manager handle the storage.

Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) on every platform that supports it.

It bolsters protection by demanding a second credential—whether a text message, push notification, or hardware token—beyond just your login password.

Keep all software, operating systems, and mobile apps current to patch exploitable flaws.

Refrain from accessing bank portals or making purchases on open Wi-Fi networks—these are prime targets for eavesdroppers.

A reliable virtual private network masks your IP and encrypts all communications, making snooping nearly impossible.

Limit the personal details you broadcast online—your life updates can be weaponized by predators.

Cybercriminals use social media profiles to gather data for phishing, account takeover, or even physical break-ins.

If something feels wrong, don’t ignore it.

When a message, offer, or request seems "too good to be true" or oddly urgent, it likely is.

Always cross-reference claims with official websites, call customer service directly, or consult a reliable friend before acting.

Educating yourself and staying alert are the best defenses against online scams