KEEPING YOUR COMPUTER SAFE

Internet Safety for Seniors

Project NetWise

Overview

Computer Protection

Key Terms: Firewall – Blocks outside access to a computer

Antivirus – Prevents most destructive programs (viruses) from accessing a computer

Cookies – Stores and transmits information to parent websites

Passwords – Allows access to online accounts

Computer Protection

Online: Connected to the Internet Disconnect when not in use

Firewall: Limits the information sent to

and from your computer Barrier from the internet Examples of firewall programs:

Zonealarm Comodo Norton

Internet

Your Computer

Computer Protection

Antivirus Protection: Prevents viruses from effecting your

computer

Can only prevent what it recognizes Important to keep software updated

Examples of antivirus programs: McAfee Norton AVG Anti-virus

Computer Protection

Cookies Allow companies to store information

on your machine Collect information on your use Sell information gathered

to 3rd parties Create profiles based on

information gathered Set computer to accept

different level of cookies

I’ve been to this site!

Computer Protection

Keep Your Password Safe! Passwords are keys to

personal information

Increase password security by using: Capital letters, lowercase letters,

symbols, and numbers Abbreviations not whole words

Example: s0uth*ern ILL-in0is

Change your password frequently

NOTE: These precautions will not protect your computer 100%

Identity Theft

Key Terms: Email – Messages sent via the internet

Websites – Locations on the internet

Identity Theft

Scamming: Tricking or deceiving a person or group of people to obtain information

Phishing Email A common avenue

for virtual scam artist. False email can appear

obvious or subtle.

Phishing Website Another common venue for virtual scam artist. Attempt to gather personal information

Email Scam: Clear Example

Email Scam: Subtle Example

Southern Illinois Bank

Email

Follow these guidelines when using email:

Sent messages are uncontrollable.

Do not open emails from email addresses you do not recognize!

Treat online situations the same way you would personal situations.

Identity Theft: Websites

Check out the legitimacy of a websiteo Key icons and web addresses Well-known site Check for misspellings

Do not give out personal information Set information to private if possible

If you are unsure just remember to: Stop… Look… Call!

Communicating Online Information you may want to consider before

sharing with others online:

Spending And Saving Online Consider the following before buying anything online:

Do you know the store from the brick mortar world?

What is the site’s reputation?

Is the website secure?

Is the offer too good to be true?

Does the merchant collect more information than is needed to complete the sale?

Use a payment service or credit card for payment.

Review the company's shipping method.

Spending and Saving Online Protect yourself when banking or paying bills online:

Computing On The Go Using public computers safely

Using mobile phones

Bullying On Line What to do if you are “cyber-bullied.”

Safety tips to avoid or deal with online bullying.

Keep personal information private.

Use technology tools to block inappropriate or threatening behavior.

Do not answer phone calls or read messages, e-mails or comments from “cyber-bullies.” Set them aside in case they are needed by authorities for evidence.

Buying Prescriptions On Line Know your source to make sure it’s safe

Make sure a website is a state-licensed pharmacy located in the United States.

Find a list at http://www.nabp.net and http://www.vipps.info.

Look for websites with practices that protect you.

Be sure your privacy is protected.

If you are suspicious or have complaints about a service or transaction, report the website!

Electronic Medical Records The advantages of Electronic Medical

Records

Recommended online storage services for Electronic Medical Records.

Socializing Online Online Dating

Blogging

Social Networking

Chat discussion boards and forums

Online quizzes and surveys

Sharing Photos, Images & Video Sharing Photos Safely

Image copyright infringement

Sharing videos online

Using webcams

Defensive Computing Browsing and searching

Ads on search engines and sponsored search results.

Identifying secure/trusted websites

Understand the risks in sharing information.

Browser settings and filtering software.

Safe Practices

Remember these helpful tips when using a computer for “web surfing” or online transactions: Treat your computer

like your home.

Never give out personal information!

Talk to your kids about Internet safety.

If it sounds too good to be true… it usually is!

Remember: The Benefits Out Weigh The Risks

The Internet can be a valuable resource for you and your family:

http://www.siuc.edu

http://www.netsmartzkids.org

http://www.thinkfinity.org

http://www.accesssi.org

http://www.jalc.edu

http://www.shawneetourism.com

http://www.illinoisworknet.com

http://www.connectsi.us.com