For Safer Internet Day and week, we’ve put together a few online safety starter tips to help you stay safe online.

For more online safety advice and information visit www.netsafe.org.nz

Put a lock on it

Put a password or passcode on your mobile phone, computer, tablet and any other device you have. You can have a lot of information on a device, so you need to protect it.

Use strong passwords

Use a strong password/passphrase on every online account you have. The important thing to remember is to make it hard to guess. Don’t use personal information (like your name, date of birth, pet’s name etc.) or a combination that will be easy for humans or robots to guess (e.g. 12345). And remember - don’t share your passwords with anyone. Sometimes, knowing a friend’s password is too much of a temptation, no matter how good a friend you think they are.

New account, new password

For every new account you create (for example, online banking, email, Facebook) use a brand new password. This means that if someone does get the password for one of your accounts, they won’t be able to access any of your other accounts using that password. You can always use a password manager app like 1password to help you remember your passwords (you just can’t forget the password to that app!).

Use two-factor

Two-factor authentication is an extra layer of security on your online accounts in case someone gets your email address and password. For example, you may get a code sent via text message to your phone that you need to enter if you login to an online account from a new device.

Learn more: https://www.netsafe.org.nz/2-factor-authentication/

Make sure you review your privacy settings on social media to make sure you’re only sharing things with the people you want to see it. Most social media platforms have an online safety centre where you can find privacy information.

Information to protect online:

• Bank account and credit card details

• Phone number adn address

• Birth date

• Driver’s license

• Passport details