Online Safety Tips

Whether you're exploring the web, reviewing text messages, or checking emails, it is essential to exercise caution regarding the links you click on and the information you choose to share.

Here are few tips to help you stay safe and secure:

Use Strong and Unique Passwords

Create passwords that are at least 12 characters long.
Use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
Avoid using easily guessed information like birthdays or simple sequences.
Consider using a password manager to keep track of passwords.

Be Careful When Using Public Wi-Fi

Avoid accessing sensitive information such as banking apps or personal accounts on public Wi-Fi networks.
Examples of Public Wi-Fi access points: Coffee Shops, hotels, airports, and other public places.
Public Wi-Fi is often unsecured, making it easier for hackers to intercept your data.
When possible, use your phone’s mobile hotspot instead of public Wi-Fi for safer browsing.
Utilize a VPN(Virtual Private Network) to encrypt your connection on public Wi-Fi.
Refrain from entering personal information on unsecured networks.

Always Sign In and Sign Out Securely

Only sign in to your accounts on trusted, secure devices and networks.
Always sign out of accounts especially on shared or public computers to prevent unauthorized access.
Avoid saving login credentials on public or shared devices.
Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) when available to add an extra layer of security. MFA requires you to verify your identity using two or more steps—like a password and a one-time code sent to your phone which makes it much harder for someone else to access your account.
Avoid using “Sign in with Google/Facebook” on unfamiliar sites.
Ensure the login page URL matches the official site of the organization.

Be Cautious with Emails and Links

Do not open emails from unknown senders.
Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from suspicious emails.
Look for signs of phishing, such as urgent messages asking for personal information.

Limit Personal Information on Social Media and Unsecured Website

Avoid sharing personal information, such as your address, phone number, and financial details, on social media or unsecured websites.
Only enter personal information on secure websites (look for “https” and a padlock icon in the address bar).

Keep Software Updated

Regularly update your computer, smartphone, and apps to protect against the latest security threats.
Turn on automatic updates when possible.

Monitor Financial Accounts

Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions.
Report any suspicious activity to your bank immediately.

Beware of Fake Pop-ups and Alerts

Stay informed about the latest online threats and scams.
Follow trusted sources like government websites, cybersecurity firms, and reputable news outlets for updates.
Take free online cybersecurity courses from reputable sources like Google, Khan Academy or your local library.

Check Website URLs Carefully

Scammers may create fake websites that look almost identical to real ones.
Double-check the website's URLs for typos or unusual characters (e.g "amaz0n.com" instead of "amazon.com")
Look for padlock icon and "https" in the address bar before entering personal or financial info.

Review App Permissions

Before installing apps, review what permissions they request.
Be cautious if an app asks for access to your location, contacts, microphone, or camera.
If a permission request doesn’t make sense for what the app does, don’t allow it.

Back Up Your Data

Scammers embed malicious links in QR codes to trick you.
After scanning, double-check the website that opens.
Do not enter personal information unless you are sure the source is legitimate.

Use Secure Payment Methods

Use credit cards or secure digital payment methods such as Apple Pay, Google Pay or Venmo (for trusted individuals) which offer buyer protection.
Avoid using Zelle, Cach App or Venmo for purchased items from strangers as these services do not offer fraud protection for unauthorized transactions.
Avoid sending money using wire transfers, prepaid debit cards, or cryptocurrency unless you know the recipient personally. These methods are commonly favored by scammers because they are difficult to trace.

Be Mindful of QR Codes

Scammers embed malicious links in QR codes to trick you.
After scanning, double-check the website that opens.
Do not enter personal information unless you are sure the source is legitimate.

Educate Yourself Continuously

Stay informed about the latest online threats and scams.
Follow trusted sources like government websites, cybersecurity firms, and reputable news outlets for updates.
Following these simple tips can help you reduce the risk of falling for online scams and improve your overall online safety.

Scam Alerts

Scams targeting households have been on the rise, particularly those seeking assistance with essential services like internet access, energy savings, and even government benefits. As programs aimed at helping income-eligible families and vulnerable populations become more widespread, they also attract scammers looking to exploit these initiatives. Whether it's misleading internet plans, phishing emails, door-to-door scams, or government impersonation, the risks are significant. To protect yourself and your loved ones, it's crucial to stay informed about these threats and know how to spot and avoid them.

Deceptive Internet Plans

Entities are running ads, falsely promoting free services and discounts to attract consumers seeking low-cost home internet plans. Don't be deceived! If you are interested in finding low-cost internet offers, please visit RivcoConnect.org/applytoday.

Door-to-door Scams

Scammers posing as salespeople or utility representatives may visit your home, claiming they can save you money by switching your energy or internet provider. Be cautious—these individuals may use high-pressure tactics or outright lies to trick you. Some may even pretend you’re eligible for a refund. Sharing your account information could lead to unauthorized changes to your service without your consent.

Phishing Scams

Scammers may impersonate official channels by sending deceptive messages or emails designed to trick you into providing personal information or clicking on a harmful link. These messages often appear legitimate but are intended to steal your sensitive information. If you suspect a phishing attempt, do not engage. To file a complaint or a scam please visit: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/.

Government Impersonation Scams

Scammers often target older adults by pretending to be officials from agencies like the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Social Security Administration, or Medicare. They might claim that the person owes back taxes, risks arrest or could lose benefits unless payment is made immediately. Remember, legitimate government officials will not contact you by phone to demand immediate payment or personal information.

Computer Tech Scams

Technical support scams exploit users’ limited understanding of computers and cybersecurity. These scams often begin with a pop-up message or a blank screen warning that your device is damaged. Scammers then request remote access to your computer or demand payment for fake repairs. To protect yourself, stay calm and independently verify any claims before taking action. Don’t be fooled—avoid clicking on suspicious links or calling the provided support number. Instead, find the company’s official phone number and contact them directly. Remember, computer issues are rarely as urgent as scammers claim. If someone contacts you insisting there’s an immediate problem, don’t hesitate to say “no” and hang up.

Subscription Renewal Scams

In this scam, the scammer sends an email or makes a phone call claiming that a subscription or service is about to expire, urging the person to renew it immediately by providing payment information. The goal is to trick the person into sharing their credit card or bank account details.

Don’t be fooled — do not provide any information immediately. Instead, verify the legitimacy by checking the company’s official website or contacting their customer service directly using a known, trusted number.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Powered Scams

An AI-powered scam involves a scammer using AI technology to mimic the voice or appearance of a victim’s friend or relative. They contact the person, pretending to be in urgent need of money due to an emergency, and pressure them to send funds quickly. The scam is convincing because the AI-generated voice or video closely resembles the real person, making it difficult for the victim to detect the fraud.

To protect yourself, always verify the request by contacting the person directly using a known number and be skeptical of urgent money demands. You can also confirm their situation by reaching out to a relative or someone living with them before taking action. This extra step helps ensure the request is real.

Online Dating Scams/Catfishing

This type of scam involve creating fake profiles on dating sites or social media channels to deceive people into developing emotional or romantic connections. The scammer often uses stolen photos and false information to build trust and manipulate the person into sending money or sharing personal details. Once the scammer has gained the person’s trust, they may invent emergencies or financial needs to exploit them further, or simply disappear after securing the money.

When communicating with new people online, it’s important to be cautious. Do not share sensitive details or financial information with someone you’ve only met online.

Banking/Gift Card Scams

A banking/gift card scam involves scammers posing as legitimate organizations or individuals, tricking victims into transferring money or buying gift cards under the front of resolving an urgent issue. If a caller instructs you to buy gift cards, go to a cryptocurrency ATM, or visit the bank while they stay on the phone, that's a scam. Additionally, if they tell you to lie about why you're withdrawing or transferring large sums of money, it's a clear sign you're being scammed. Always verify such requests independently to protect yourself.

Text Message Scams (Smishing)

Scammers send fake text messages that may appear to be from a bank, delivery service, or government agency. These messages often contain links that lead to fake websites designed to steal your personal or financial information. Do not click on suspicious links and avoid replying to messages from unknown numbers. If in doubt, contact the organization directly using a trusted number.

Charity and Donation Scams

During natural disasters, holidays, or global crises, scammers often impersonate charities to solicit fake donations. These scams may come through emails, social media, or phone calls. Always verify the legitimacy of a charity by checking official websites or platforms like CharityNavigator.org before donating. Be wary of urgent pleas or requests for wire transfers or gift cards

Job Scams

Fake job postings and recruiters may offer work-from-home opportunities or high-paying roles to trick people into providing personal information or paying upfront fees. Scammers may even schedule fake interviews. Always research the company and never pay for job opportunities or training. Legitimate employers will not ask for sensitive information early in the hiring process.

Online Marketplace Scams

Scammers often target people buying or selling items through platforms like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or OfferUp. They may send fake payment confirmations or ask to pay with gift cards or checks that later bounce. For in-person transactions, always meet in public places. For online transactions, verify payment before shipping and be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.

Political Donations Scams (Fake Campaign Fundraisers)

Scammers may impersonate political candidates, parties, or causes to trick you into donating money. These fake appeals can arrive via emails, texts, phone calls, or even social media ads — often using urgent or emotional language to pressure quick action.

Always verify that you’re donating to an official campaign website. Be cautious of third-party fundraising platforms, wire transfers, or requests for gift cards.

Safety Tools

Navigating the digital world is not easy and sometimes requires the help of others and online tools to keep your information secure. Here are a few tools that could help keep your information safe, along with some free software options:

Antivirus Software - Antivirus software is designed to detect, prevent, and remove malicious software (malware), including viruses, worms, trojans, and spyware.

Norton Antivirus
McAfee Antivirus
Avast Antivirus
Bitdefender Antivirus

Password Manager - Password managers store and manage your passwords in a secure, encrypted database, generating strong passwords and auto-filling them when needed.

Bitwarden (Free)
1Password
Nordpress

Ad Blockers and Anti-Tracking Tools - These tools block advertisements and trackers on websites, improving browsing speed and protecting your privacy by preventing data collection.

Adblock Plus