Today@Dal

When you are reading email or browsing online, be on the lookout for suspicious links and deceptive web pages, which are major sources of viruses and other malware. Also be careful when selecting browser plugins, apps, or other downloadable files since they can introduce new vulnerabilities. Here are some suggestions to make your day-to-day online browsing more productive, safe, and secure.

• When in doubt, ignore. Don’t click on suspicious links, pop-up windows, or extraneous ads.
• Never give your password to anyone. Dalhousie IT support staff will never ask you for your password.
• Be sure to install antivirus updates and regularly check for and install/update your browser and the plugins (e.g., Adobe Flash and Java).
• When purchasing things online or entering sensitive information check that the web site address has a “HTTPS” in the front. This means that information is encrypted and can’t be intercepted.
• Use a strong, unique password or passphrase for each account, and avoid storing account information on a website. Consider using separate browsers for sensitive logins and general web browsing.
• Avoid checking your bank account, making purchases, or logging in to other websites that include sensitive information when using public Wi-Fi at places such as a coffee shop.
• Go stealth when browsing and use your web browsers “private mode”. This will ensure the privacy of personal information online.

For more tips, information, and details please visit the Information Security area on the ITS web site.