Safe Browsing and Security

A long time ago, the internet was something only a few people used. Now, almost everyone uses it every day! While the internet can be great, there are also people who use it to trick others. But don’t worry, with some simple steps, you can stay safe online.

General Safety Tips

No safety method is perfect, but these tips will help keep you safer online.

Understanding Links and URLs

When you go on the internet, you click on links to visit websites. These links have something called a URL, which is like an address for a website. Scammers might make fake URLs that look real to trick you.

Parts of a URL:

Tips for Reading URLs:

• Look for HTTPS: Always check if the URL starts with "https://" before entering personal information.

• Check the Domain: Make sure the domain name is correct. Scammers might change a small letter to trick you.

  • Legitimate: "www.bankofamerica.com"
  • Suspicious: "www.bankofarnerica.com" (Notice the "r" instead of "m")

• Be Careful with Subdomains: Scammers can use subdomains to make a URL look real.

  • Legitimate: "support.website.com"
  • Suspicious: "website.support.com"

• Inspect the Path: The path should match what you expect to see on the website.

  • Example: "www.example.com/login" is more trustworthy than "www.example.com/secure-login"

Tips to Avoid Bad URLs:

• Hover Over Links: Before clicking, point your mouse at the link to see where it will take you.
• Be Careful with Shortened URLs: Some links are shortened, like "bit.ly/xyz". Use a tool to see the full link before clicking.
• Type URLs Directly: Try to search for the official website instead of clicking the link.
• Use a URL Scanner: Tools like Google Safe Browsing can check if a URL is safe.

Example Analysis:

• Legitimate URL: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08N5WRWNW

• Suspicious URL: http://www.amazonsecure-payment.com/refund?id=12345

Understanding Online Ads

Ads are everywhere online, but not all of them are safe. Scammers can make fake ads to steal your information or money.

Recognizing Safe vs. Fake Ads:

• Safe Ads:

  • Labeled as "Sponsored" or "Ad".
  • Found on well-known websites.
  • Take you to real websites.

• Fake Ads (Malicious Ads):

  • Look like real content.
  • Appear on unknown websites.
  • Take you to strange websites.
  • Often have bad spelling or strange URLs.

Tips for Avoiding Bad Ads:

• Use Ad Blockers
• Enable Pop-Up Blockers
• Be Careful with Clicks
• Update Your Software

Social Media Safety

When you post on social media, be careful about what you share.

Tips for Safe Posting:

• Think Before You Post
• Don't share Your Information
• Adjust Privacy Settings
• Be Respectful
• Avoid Oversharing
• Fact-Check Before Sharing
• Be mindful of who could see this