Using good security practices and safe browsing habits can help prevent your email account from being compromised. Here are some helpful tips:
- Make sure your devices are patched with the latest updates, including antivirus.
- Set your security software, internet browser, and operating system to update automatically.
- Use unique strong passwords for account access.
- Be wary of unexpected emails, especially when they contain links and/or attachments.
- Verify the sender’s address. If you don’t recognize the address, don’t reply.
- If an email request from a known contact seems out of place, verify the request by calling the sender on the phone.
- Think twice before clicking a link. Always hover before clicking to see the address of the web site you are attempting to visit.
- Never click text links like “Click Here” or “Unsubscribe,” or any other links in suspect emails.
- Never input a password or your email address on an unknown site, and never provide your passwords to anyone.
- Be vigilant when reviewing emails, as you may receive an email from a legitimate contact who has been compromised.
- Don’t access your email account on a public computer or from a device using public Wi-Fi.