Your back-to-basics guide to keeping safe online

These days, most of us use the internet more than ever, in fact there doesn’t seem to be much that we can’t do online. But because of the scams, disrespectful behaviour and inappropriate content that have unfortunately become so commonplace, it’s essential that we all look after ourselves, our families, finances, devices and workplace.

Your back-to-basics list of easy-to-follow steps to go online with increased safety and confidence. Whether you’re new to the internet or a digital native.

Protect your passwords
Use a different password for each account and make them strong by combining random words with numbers and symbols. A password manager can help keep them safe and memorable.

Keep your devices secure
Install reliable internet security software (often called anti-virus) on your computers, tablets, and smartphones – and keep it switched on and updated. Protect your devices with a unique password or passcode.

Update regularly
Operating system, app and software updates often include essential security protection. Installing them when prompted helps keep your devices safe. Better still, set them to update automatically.

Pause and check who you’re dealing with
Online messages, emails or phone calls aren’t always from who they appear to be. AI can make fake messages seem even more convincing, so take a moment to confirm identities before sharing information, by contacting the person or organisation they claim to come from on the number you know to be correct.

Think before you click
Clicking on links and attachments in unexpected emails, texts or posts can lead to fraud, identity theft or other harms. If something feels unusual, take time to check it first.

Stay smart when using public Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi in cafés, hotels, and public spaces isn’t always secure, or it could even be fraudulent. For private activities such as banking or shopping, use your mobile data, a personal dongle, or a VPN.

Choose safe ways to pay
Use secure payment methods such as credit cards or trusted services when shopping online. These give you stronger protection than a direct bank transfer, where you may lose your money in the event of fraud.

Report it!
If you come across fraud, scams, or abuse, report it to the appropriate authorities. Acting quickly can protect you and others.

Take care what you share
Be careful with the personal details you post online, such as your address or financial or other confidential information. Once shared, it can be hard to control who sees it.

Check information and news
Not all online information is trustworthy. Misinformation, disinformation, and AI-generated fake news can look very real. Verify with reliable sources before believing, sharing or acting on it.

Be kind and responsible
Online communities are at their best when we treat each other with respect. Communicate thoughtfully, just as you would face-to-face.

For more detailed information and advice, visit www.getsafeonline.org/back-to-basics

If you suspect a text, message or email of being fraudulent, run it past Ask Silver, the AI-driven fraud detection tool at www.getsafeonline.org/asksilver

To check whether a website is likely to be legitimate or fraudulent, enter its address into Check a Website at www.getsafeonline.org/checkawebsite.