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The internet is a medium that has been well-integrated into our lives. However, like many things in life, it’s better to play it safe. Online safety is something that most of us think we have a handle on, but with ongoing innovations and the introduction of AI, it doesn’t hurt to follow up on your own cybersecurity.

JCCC Crime Prevention Officer Dan Robles has some tips to share with our students and faculty on how to move safely online.

Starting with the basics, when it comes to passwords, Robles says, “Protect your passwords. Create different passwords for different sites using a combination of letters, numbers and symbols. Do not use obvious passwords like your address, date of birth or your own initials.”

Google now has tools that allow users to save passwords connected to their accounts, that way they are less easily forgotten. Personal information is something that all of us don’t want floating around the web. We all love sharing what we’re up to on social media, but we never wanna share too much.

“Do not share too much information on social media,” Officer Robles suggests. “Adjust or change your private settings on your accounts so only friends and people you trust can view what you post.”

Speaking of people you can trust, being cautious and aware of who we’re talking to online is important. Most of us have seen it all, from spam messages to robocalls and direct messages from bots.

“Use common sense and be alert when clicking on links, opening attachments and visiting websites when corresponding to emails. Malware can spread through infected flash drives, external hard drives and cellphones,” says Officer Robles.

So far, we have discussed staying safe online, but how can we protect ourselves from online threats while going through our day-to-day routines in public?

“Be careful when using Wi-Fi in public, especially when looking at sites such as online banking and other sensitive information. Do not use [a] coffee shop’s Wi-Fi network if you are going to do online banking or shop online using your credit card. Your information can be compromised. Only use a trusted, secure, online private Wi-Fi network,” Officer Robles advises.

As we navigate a world that is becoming more automated by the day, these simple but effective tips can help us have a little more peace of mind when going online, especially in an area that may not be the most secure. As we navigate this era of technology, being the best we can be to others online might make the internet a better place for everyone. Officer Robles reflects this in his last piece of advice.

“Use good online manners and be respectful of others.”