June is National Internet Safety Month

June is National Internet Safety Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and promoting online security best practices.

According to a recent AT&T survey, 43 percent of Americans said they felt powerless about online security. But they shouldn’t. The easiest, most basic security tips can still prevent the majority of online scams and thefts.

It’s important to be cyber aware and understand that data theft can happen at any time. AT&T has compiled a few online safety tips to help you protect your computer and mobile devices:

1. Always think, "This could happen to me."

• Thinking this way will make you less likely to fall for attacks. You will help protect your information, keep security measures in place and discover issues faster by keeping an eye on your accounts.

2. Be aware.

• Be aware of people manipulating you for your information, sometimes
  called “social engineering.” When a stranger calls or emails, you should treat him or her like a stranger.
• Only share information over the phone if you made the call to a number you know is right. Calls from numbers that look legitimate may be bad guys “spoofing” the incoming number to fool you.
• Question or ignore people contacting you with wild offers or promises, like free money, in exchange for your information.
• Use caution when sharing or verifying information.
• Only share your email address with people you know, and when you know how they will use it.

3. Know BEFORE you open.

• Only open email and text messages from someone you know.
• Only open an attachment or click a link if you know and trust the sender, and you understand what the message is about.
• Question or ignore any message asking for personal or financial information.
• Do not provide your username or password through an email or text in response to an unsolicited email or text.

4. Strengthen your own security.

• Create unique and complex passwords. Use a combination of random words of phrases, and avoid using nicknames, birthdays or other information people may know. The longer the password, the better.
• Keep security software up to date.
• Keep all computers, laptops, tablets and smartphones up to date with the latest operating systems updates.
• Use security questions with trick answers.
• Use two-step authentication where available. The first step is logging
  in with your password. This triggers the second step – a PIN number sent to your telephone that is required to complete the login.

5. Check it out.

• Look for security indicators on a website. These include an "s" after the http in a website address, and a lock icon next to the URL field or at the bottom of the screen.
• If asked to fill out a form or share information, go directly to the company’s secure website to submit the information. Don’t fill out forms attached to emails or click on links in an unsolicited text message.
• Monitor your bank and credit card statements for suspicious charges or transfers.

The internet is a tool that can simplify and improve our lives. However, everyone should be aware of potential threats and handle accordingly.

AT&T recently launched its Cyber Aware website, which provides free fraud prevention and cybersecurity advice to the public. Visit att.com/cyberaware for more tips to help you connect safely and securely online.