Secure Connections, Brighter Futures: Internet Safety for All Ages

The internet offers incredible opportunities but also poses risks such as identity theft, fraud and scams. Protecting yourself and your loved ones online is more important than ever. Bank of New Hampshire is here to guide you with these essential internet safety tips:

1. Teach Kids About Online Risks

Children are often unaware of online dangers. Educate them to avoid suspicious links, downloads and sharing personal information. Start conversations early to establish good digital habits.

2. Guard Your Personal Information

Avoid sharing sensitive information like your Social Security number, address or phone number online. Even seemingly harmless details, like your workplace or school, can be used by scammers.

3. Strengthen Your Passwords

Create strong, unique passwords for every account. Avoid common phrases, personal details or reused passwords. A strong password is your first line of defense against hackers.

4. Warn Kids About Online Strangers

Just like in the real world, strangers online can pose a threat. Teach kids to be cautious about communicating with people they don’t know and to tell a trusted adult if they feel uncomfortable.

5. Keep Social Media Accounts Private

Limit the visibility of your personal information on social media. Only connect with people you know and ensure your accounts are set to private.

6. Avoid Oversharing

Think twice before posting sensitive information like your travel plans or driver’s license online. Such details can be exploited by identity thieves or burglars.

7. Be Wary of Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi networks are convenient but often unsecure. Use a VPN to protect your data when accessing public networks, or wait to browse until you’re on a secure connection.

8. Update Your Devices

Install software updates promptly. These updates often fix security vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit. Enable automatic updates to ensure you don’t miss critical patches.

If you believe you’ve been targeted by a scam or fraud, contact Bank of New Hampshire immediately at 1.800.832.0912.

By staying informed and proactive, you can protect yourself and your family while enjoying the benefits of the digital world. Together, we can create a brighter, safer future for everyone.