Tips for staying safe and private online from the NSCA

Own your online presence:

Personal information is like money

Value it. Protect it. Information about you, such as your purchase history or location, has value – just like money. Be thoughtful about who gets that information and how it’s collected through apps and websites. You should delete unused apps, keep apps and operating systems up-to-date, and review app permissions regularly.

Share with care

Think before posting about yourself and others online. Consider what it reveals, who might see it and how it could be perceived now and in the future. It’s a good idea to review your social network friends and all contact lists to ensure everyone still belongs.

Own your online presence

Set the privacy and security settings for sharing information on websites and apps to a level that you are comfortable with. Each device, application or browser you use will have different features to limit how and with whom you share information. It’s ok to ask others for help.

Lock down your login

Usernames and passwords are not enough to protect key accounts like email, banking and social media. Choose one account and turn on the strongest authentication tools available, such as biometrics, security keys or a unique one-time code sent to your mobile device.

Keep a clean machine

Keep all software, operating systems (mobile and desktop), and apps up-to-date to protect data loss from viruses and malware.

Apply this golden rule online

Post only about others as you would have them post about you.

Secure your devices

Every device should be secured by a password or strong authentication – finger print, facial recognition etc. These security measures limit access to authorized users only and protect your information if devices are lost or stolen.

Think before you app

Information about you, such as the games you like to play, your contacts list, where you shop and your location, has tremendous value. Be thoughtful about who gets that information and understand how it’s collected through the apps you use.