Cybersecurity, like security of information, and securing your information would have been really helpful. I know, I felt very uncomfortable having to send personal information by email all of the time, and also, you know, sometimes collecting people’s personal information.
– Participant 82
Here is a tip sheet on cybersecurity to help keep you safe. Click on your preferred language to download the tip sheet.
Protect your device
Lock your device
- Use a password for your phone, laptop or other devices. This protects your device in case it is lost or stolen.
Back up your data
- A backup is a copy of everything on your device. If your device is lost or broken, you can get the data from the backup.
- Backups are saved to a place other than your device, usually the cloud. The cloud is a network of computers run by companies like Google.
- Most devices offer free backups. The space may be limited. Learn how to do a backup on WikiHow.
Do software updates
- Many updates improve security.
Log out
- When you’re done on an app or website, log out for greater security.
Take care with passwords
Use long passwords
- Use upper and lower case letters, numbers and symbols.
- Create phrases you’ll remember: 2-H@ppy-Small-Kids&Me
Try to use a different password with each account
Use a password manager
This will help with all the passwords!
- Some browsers, like Firefox and Chrome, or operating systems, like Windows, offer free password management.
- Two-factor authentication is provided by some password managers. This means two steps for logging in, which takes longer but is more secure.
Take care with your connection
If you have a home internet network connection, use a strong password so that only people with the password can access it.
If you use a free or public wi-fi:
- Use a VPN. There are free VPNs like ProtonVPN.
- A VPN will encrypt (make private) the connection, which protects your device from viruses and your data from being stolen.
Your data – the information about what you do, watch and buy online – is very valuable, but companies don’t want to pay you for it.
Take control of your data privacy
Settings
Devices, websites and most apps can protect your data, but you have to set this up.
- Look for “settings” or “privacy” on the device or app (such as Google, Instagram, ChatGPT).
- For more help, search for the app or device name and “how to set privacy”.
History
You can “clear history” in your web browser and AI account.
Cookies
When asked by a website to “Allow cookies”, select “Accept only necessary” or unselect “Advertising” or “Targeted”.
Social media
Think about who you want seeing your social media account. A stranger who tries to connect with you may be a bot collecting your data.
Credit cards
Avoid saving credit card information on websites.
Let’s keep safe together
Click bait
- If you see something that upsets you, stop and take a deep breath. This may be a trick designed to make you post/share/read more.
Before sharing
- Make sure links you share are safe.
- Make sure information you share is true.
- Be clear why others might find a link or post of interest.
Ask friends and family
- If it’s ok for you to share their information and photos.
- What steps they take online to feel respected and be respectful.
For more information
- GetCyberSafe.ca – Tips for keeping your identity safe, phishing scams and much more, from the Government of Canada.
- SecurityPlanner.ConsumerReports.org – This site shows how to keep your online information safe. First created in Canada, it’s now run by an American non-profit.
Cybersecurity is something… is really important because the more technology advances, the more cyber criminals advance….
– Participant 88
