While AI may dominate today’s tech news, it’s not the only tech story out there. October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and it’s a great time to review the security of your devices and habits to make sure you’re protected against today’s threats.
Device Advice
Some tech security advice always stays the same.
- Keep your device updated to the latest operating system version (Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS). If your device is older and has stopped receiving updates, you are at risk when using that device.
- Keep apps/software updated to the latest version. Some apps/programs handle this automatically (Microsoft Office), while others require manual updates (Zoom). If your software needs manual updates, set a reminder to check for them regularly. Monthly, if possible.
- If you use a shared device or public Wi-Fi connection, assume everything you do can be accessed. Libraries and other venues take great care to secure their networks, but whenever you invite unknown users to connect the risk increases.
- Make sure all of your devices and accounts have unique, strong passwords (at least 10 characters, a mix of upper and lowercase, numbers, and symbols).
Shop Like a Boss
When shopping online, there are additional actions you can take to secure your identity and your bank account.
- Shop with reputable retailers. Avoid or use extreme caution when purchasing items on Facebook, Craigslist, eBay, and Temu, as there is an increased risk of fraud with these sites.
- When purchasing from a retailer that includes unknown sellers, like Amazon or Facebook, try using a tool like Fakespot to vet the reviews there.
- For sellers you haven’t heard of before, check the Better Business Bureau to see if complaints have been lodged. Also, make sure there is legitimate contact information on the website, along with clearly stated shipping terms.
- When checking out, don’t give any more information than is needed. Name, payment, shipping address, telephone, and email should be all they need. Skip optional fields and be prepared to walk away if they require too much.
- Use PayPal or a credit card to pay, not a debit card. Using a debit card allows a thief to actually clean out your bank account, rather than spending theoretical money that can be disputed. Keep your receipts and reconcile them every month.
- Never buy a discount gift card. Ever.
- Remember – if that deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Know how much an item “should” cost and avoid outliers.
Know the Signs of a Scam
- Urgency: Gets you to respond quickly, and/or encourages you to act on emotion.
- Don’t click on links or attachments. They can upload harmful material onto your device, or be used to retrieve your information.
- Requests for personal info: This can be used to impersonate you or access your accounts.
- Threatening tone: Used to scare people into giving up money or information.
- Too good to be true
- Payment request: Do not send money online unless you have confirmed who will receive it. Also never share credit card or other payment info over email.
- Typos: Spelling and design mistakes can indicate that an email, website, or social media post was made by a scammer.
To Learn More
Tech-Talk has collected articles, videos, and recorded webinars on a variety of security topics on their security-themed page. This resource is free to use for Colonie residents. You can also check the library’s computer class calendar for upcoming tech security classes.
If you’d like to request a topic for a computer class, please use our Suggest a Program form. Alternatively, request a blog post on a topic using the Request a Post form.
See you next time!
