| One of the most powerful mediums of communication | | | | your password on a frequent basis to avoid any |
| is the Internet and today we see almost everyone | | | | problems. |
| using it. Many transactions take place on the net which | | | | Equip your computer with reliable antivirus software |
| has resulted in the eruption of cyber crime. Though | | | | for maximum protection. If you are posting |
| internet is the main platform used to commit cyber | | | | photographs on profiles, choose your picture with care. |
| crimes, other communication devices such as | | | | Ensure you do not post pictures that could harm your |
| computer networks and cell phones are also mediums | | | | reputation. |
| of this type of crime. | | | | Never leave your personal information details such as |
| Cyber crime may include activities such as computer | | | | address, telephone numbers, passwords, account |
| hacking, child pornography, stalking, spam marketing, | | | | numbers and social security number lying around. Also |
| credit card fraud and identity theft. Releasing malware, | | | | ensure they are not placed on cell phones, mp3 |
| spyware and viruses to steal information is also a part | | | | players and multimedia devices. |
| of cyber crime. | | | | The moment you receive your credit card bills and |
| Here are a few tips which when followed can protect | | | | bank statements, check for any discrepancies. If you |
| your sensitive financial or personal information. | | | | are keen on shopping online, choose a reliable and |
| If you are a member of online forums and | | | | secure website. Ensure you get a free credit report |
| communities, ensure you are very careful sharing your | | | | yearly from the credit bureaus. This makes it easy for |
| personal information. Predators on social networking | | | | you to find out if someone is using your social security |
| sites such as Twitter, Facebook and MySpace can | | | | number unauthorized. If you do come across any |
| steal and use this information to stalk or harass you. | | | | cyber crimes, be sure to report to the authorities |
| Ensure all your online transaction passwords are really | | | | immediately. |
| difficult to guess and strong. It is a good idea changing | | | | |