10 Tips to Keep You Safe & Have Fun on the Web

Hey there, web surfers! Today is World Wide Web Day, and we’re here to share some tips to make your online experience both safe and enjoyable.
Let’s dive right in:

1. Use Strong Passwords: Strong passwords make it harder for hackers to access your accounts. Mix it up with letters, numbers, and symbols, and avoid using personal information like birthdays or common words. For example, instead of "password123", try "G!v3M3$eCur1ty".

2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Adding an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as an authentication app or a text message code, can make your accounts much more secure. Even if someone has your password, they’ll also need access to your phone to log in.

3. Stay Updated: Keeping your software and apps up to date protects against the latest threats. Set your devices and apps to update automatically. Recently, a software update fixed a bug that could allow hackers to access personal data. By updating, you stay protected.

4. Beware of Phishing Scams: Phishing scams trick you into giving away personal information. Don’t click on suspicious links or attachments in emails or messages from unknown sources. For instance, if you receive an email that looks like it’s from your bank asking you to confirm your account details, always verify by contacting your bank directly.

5. Use Secure Connections: Secure connections encrypt your data, making it harder for hackers to intercept. Look for "HTTPS" in the website URL, especially when entering sensitive information. When shopping online, ensure the website URL starts with "https://" to protect your payment information.

6. Regular Backups: Backups protect your data from loss due to hardware failure, theft, or malware. Use cloud services or external hard drives to regularly backup important files. If your computer crashes or gets infected with ransomware, you can restore your data from a backup.

7. Privacy Settings Matter: Privacy settings control who can see your personal information. Regularly review and adjust your privacy settings on social media and apps. On Facebook, for example, you can limit who sees your posts to just friends instead of the public.

8. Be Wary of Public Wi-Fi: Public Wi-Fi networks are often less secure, making it easier for hackers to intercept your data. Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) when connecting to public Wi-Fi. If you need to check your bank account while at a coffee shop, using a VPN can secure your connection.

9. Think Before You Share: Once something is posted online, it’s difficult to remove completely. Be mindful of the information you share and who can see it. Avoid sharing your location or vacation plans on social media to prevent potential burglaries.

10. Have Fun and Explore: The internet is full of interesting and educational content. Explore new websites, watch educational videos, or follow live events.
Here are some fun recommendations:

• Olympics: Check out the official Olympics website for schedules, highlights, and live updates.
• Educational Sites: Visit websites like Khan Academy for free online courses, or Coursera for a wide range of classes.
• Entertainment: Explore interactive museum tours on Google Arts & Culture.
• Tech Help: Of course, Layer 2 Computers is your go to for that!

Stay safe out there, and happy browsing!