TDCI Shares Consumer Tips for Cyber Security Awareness Month

Friday, October 07, 2016 | 04:00pm

NASHVILLE – In recognition of National Cyber Security Awareness Month, the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance’s (TDCI) Division of Consumer Affairs reminds Tennesseans to always take security and safety precautions when enjoying the benefits of the internet.

National Cyber Security Awareness Month, observed every October, was created as a collaborative effort between government and industry to ensure every American has the resources they need to stay safer and more secure online.

“Living in a digital society means we all have a role to play when it comes to cyber security,” said TDCI Deputy Commissioner Bill Giannini. “We encourage Tennesseans to incorporate online safety into their daily lives by making sure security measures are in place and considering the consequences of their actions and behaviors online.”

The Tennessee Division of Consumer Affairs shares the following consumer tips from the National Cyber Security Alliance:

KEEP A CLEAN MACHINE

  • Keep security software current: Having the latest security software, web browser, and operating system are the best defenses against viruses, malware, and other online threats.
  • Automate software updates: Many software programs will automatically connect and update to defend against known risks. Turn on automatic updates if that’s an available option.
  • Protect all devices that connect to the internet: Along with computers, smart phones, gaming systems, and other web‐enabled devices also need protection from viruses and malware.
  • Plug & scan: USBs and other external devices can be infected by viruses and malware. Use your security software to scan them.

PROTECT YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION

  • Secure your accounts: Ask for protection beyond passwords. Many account providers now offer additional ways for you verify who you are before you conduct business on that site.
  • Make passwords long and strong: Combine capital and lowercase letters with numbers and symbols to create a more secure password.
  • Unique account, unique password: Separate passwords for every account helps to thwart cybercriminals.
  • Write it down and keep it safe: Everyone can forget a password. Keep a list that’s stored in a safe, secure place away from your computer.
  • Own your online presence: Set the privacy and security settings on websites to your comfort level for information sharing. It’s ok to limit how and with whom you share information

CONNECT WITH CARE

  • When in doubt throw it out: Links in email, tweets, posts, and online advertising are often the way cybercriminals compromise your computer. If it looks suspicious, even if you know the source, it’s best to delete or if appropriate, mark as junk email.
  • Get savvy about wi‐fi hotspots: Limit the type of business you conduct and adjust the security settings on your device to limit who can access your machine.
  • Protect your $$: When banking and shopping, check to be sure the site is security enabled. Look for web addresses with “https://,” which means the site takes extra measures to help secure your information. “Http://” is not secure.

For more consumer resources, contact the TDCI Division of Consumer Affairs at 800-342-8385 or visit wehelpconsumers.tn.gov.  

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