Cyber Security Practices to Stay Safe Online

The widespread availability of computers and connections to the Internet provides everyone with 24/7 access to information, credit and financial services, and shopping. The Internet is also an incredible tool for educators and students to communicate and learn.

Unfortunately, some individuals exploit the Internet through criminal behavior and other harmful acts. Criminals can try to gain unauthorized access to your computer and then use that access to steal your identity, commit fraud, or even launch cyber attacks against others. By following the recommended cyber security practices outlined here, you can limit the harm cyber criminals can do not only to your computer, but to everyone's computer.

However, there is no single cyber security practice or technological solution that will prevent online crime. These recommended cyber security practices highlight that using a set of practices that include Internet habits as well as technology solutions can make a difference.

The National Cyber Security Alliance's Top Eight Cyber Security Practices are practical steps you can take to stay safe online and avoid becoming a victim of fraud, identity theft, or cyber crime

Cyber-Seduction: Danger on the Web is a new educational documentary video that alerts teens to dangers on the internet. Two teens, Caroline and Brian, tell their stories of deception, poor judgement, running away, and abuse that begin chatting innocently on the internet. Both teens hope that by sharing their painful experiences they can help others avoid danger on the web.
"Some 90-year old guy can tell you he's 16 and put up a picture of his grandson," says Caroline. "In my case it was the guy's nephew." An FBI agent explains that by developing online relationships over a period of time which appear to be sincere, perpetrators are able to lure teens into meeting them in person. The emotional impact of these stories will encourage junior high and high school students to use critical thinking and make safe choices when using the internet.