Click with caution: how to protect yourself against hackers and scammers online

October is cyber security awareness month.

While the internet offers us access to a vast world of products, services, information and entertainment, it also creates numerous opportunities for scammers, hackers and identity thieves.

With more and more publicized data breaches in various sectors, we are constantly reminded about our vulnerability and account security regarding passwords and other account information.

Remember to STOP before you use the internet, take time to understand the risks and learn how to spot potential problems. Take a moment to make sure the path ahead is clear.

Consider how your actions online could impact your and your family's safety.

You want to enjoy the internet with greater confidence by knowing you've taken the proper steps in safeguarding yourself and your computer.

BBB has a special help page on its website: https://www.bbb.org/council/for-businesses/cybersecurity/

Learn about cyber security, cyber security events and resources concerning cyber security. BBB TIPS: Click with caution. Only open emails, attachments, and links from people you know. Use anti-virus software regularly and enhance email filters to block threats. Watch out for unsolicited emails that contain misspellings or grammatical errors. Don't believe what you see. It's easy to steal the colors, logos and headers of an established organization.

Hover over any links to see where they lead. Malicious emails may look identical to legitimate websites, but come from a different sender. Safeguard your information. Don't reveal personal or financial information in an email, and do not respond to email solicitations for this information.

Be wary of any urgent instructions to take specified action such as "Click on the link or your account will be closed." Verify email requests. If you are unsure whether an email request is legitimate, contact the company directly using information provided on an account statement, not information provided in an email. Keep software updates current.

Having the latest operating system, software, web browsers, anti-virus protection and apps are the best defenses against viruses, malware, and other online threats.

The BBB is partnering with Marquette University for a series of cyber security events.

For details on that click here