Protect yourself while using the Internet

1.      Never use the same passwords that you use at work on a social networking site.

2.      Check and update your computer software, including Windows operating systems (and others like Mac OS) and Web browsers.

3.      Limit usage of social networking sites to personal use only.

4.      Install antivirus/anti-spyware software to protect your computer and detect and remove viruses.

5.      Try to avoid mentioning where you work.

6.      Install software for spam filtering and spam blocking.

7.      Don’t use your pet’s name as a password.

8.      Be wary of e-mail offers that come from a source you don't recognize. Don't reply to the e-mail, click any links within the e-mail, or open any attachments.

9.      Never submit your credit card details or other personal information on non-secure websites. Before submitting your user name and password to log on, make sure your browser window displays the closed padlock symbol and the URL begins with "https://".

10.  Beware of what links you click and what software you download and install.

11.  Never share your user names and passwords or store them on your computer.

12.  Beware when using public computers at home.

13.  Do not send confidential information through a social networking.

14.  Don't respond to "spammed" e-mails.