Last updated on February 1, 2024

 

Let’s not tarnish the beautiful youth with an unsafe internet……..

Let us remember that the shadow above our heads is cast by our own hands and play the role to ensure our own cybersafety. Otherwise, you can’t stop yourself from being the number one enemy of your internet safety:

Here is a guide that empowers you to stay safe online:

1. Think before clicking on links:

• Check the domain name of the link.
• Make sure it is a link you’re looking for.
• Verify that it is a legitimate URL (link).

2. The software you use should be updated regularly.

3. Create unique passwords for different systems and accounts.
You should strengthen them with a combination of letters, numbers and special characters that no one can guess. Treat your password like your toothbrush; do not share it with others.

4. Two-factor authentication, which provides an extra layer of security to passwords, should be enabled whenever possible.

5. You don’t have to give out your personal information just because someone asks for it. They can be given only if necessary, after ascertaining whether it is appropriate to give them.

6. You should not meet an online friend without the knowledge of a parent or guardian. There is a potential risk of being misused under the guise of support.

7. All news on the internet can never be assumed to be true. Check the authenticity of online content before accepting.

8. You should never connect USB or other data storage devices of someone you don’t know to your computer.

9. Always remember to use a VPN when using public Wi-Fi.

10. All data on the computer should be backed up regularly.

11. If you want to download something, you should visit only verified, trusted sites. A website with ‘https’ and a padlock symbol in the address bar is considered secure. Learn how to spot fake or fraudulent websites.

12. Do not engage in online banking and shopping using your credit card over unsecured or public networks. Learn how to do online banking carefully here.

13. Ignore the messages that you receive from a website or your mobile service provider claiming that you have won a prize/lottery or congratulating you as the Millionth visitor. Keep in mind that their main goal is to get something out of you misusing your information.

14. If you experience incidents of bullying, tell your parents or a teacher at school immediately. Do not respond to them by sending derogatory or insulting messages.

15. Feel free to contact Hithawathi for assistance with regard to cyber related issues.

Sources :
* https://www.wordfence.com/blog/2022/10/national-cyber-security-awareness-month-you-could-be-the-biggest-threat-to-your-wordpress-site/
* https://www.hithawathi.lk/cyber-security-booklet/