Best practices for managing your internet security

How many passwords do you have? Are they all different? A secure password helps to protect your information. These tips will help you create and manage more secure passwords. 

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) provides these recommendations on creating secure passwords:

• Don't use the same password for multiple accounts, especially for the most sensitive ones, such as bank accounts, credit cards, legal or tax records and files containing medical information. Otherwise, someone with access to one of your accounts may end up with access to many others.
  
  
• Don't have your web browser remember passwords and input them for you, particularly for your most important financial, legal and medical accounts. If an unauthorized person gains access to your computer or smartphone, they could access any account that your browser automatically logs into.
  
  
• Don't use passwords that can be easily guessed, such as common words and birthdays of family members. Instead, use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. The longer and stronger the password, the safer your information.

Learn more about securing your computer, network, and security software.

Operating system

Make sure your device's operating system, browser, plug-ins, and programs are up-to-date. Here are some tips:

• Operating system: Typically, unless you've changed your device's settings, it will automatically prompt you when there are updates to install.
  
  
• Programs and apps: Check with the manufacturer or app store to look for updates.
  
  
• Browsers and plug-ins: Try using a website like whatismybrowser.com to see if your browser and plug-ins are up-to-date.

Security software

Brightspeed takes your internet safety seriously. We offer security software at no extra charge to our residential internet customers. Some customers also have Secure WiFi, providing security for the entire home network directly from the modem. 

Wireless network

Wireless networks can be vulnerable to hackers or malicious software (such as worms). Wireless networks use radio waves that can go beyond the boundaries of your home or business. If you don't secure your network, people with computers nearby may be able to access information on your computers and use your internet connection to perform illegal activities. Set up a custom security key on your wireless network (WPA is recommended), to help protect it from unauthorized access.

Internet users are constantly being offered free software. Remember that behind every website or email campaign is a real individual or business attempting to generate revenue. Be cautious when considering installing “free software.”

Downloading freeware

Legitimate software can be modified to house malware and made available for download on third-party sites. The safest way to obtain software is to download it directly from the manufacturer.

Downloading trial software

Sometimes companies offer "trial software" or beta versions of the software that may expire after a set time or be limited in functionality. Some of this is legitimate, but some will deliver malware or extra items that the user did not agree to. Do research on the software package online to see what others who have tried it are saying about it. There are many online sites where users report malicious software packages.

In addition to keeping your email account secure with a strong password, stay aware of common email scams such as:

Phishing

Spam

Open relays and proxies

An open mail relay is a setting email servers use to allow anyone to send email through it.

How do I test an IP address for an open relay? Use the search term "SMTP open relay test" to find a 3rd party tool to test for open relay.

How do I report an open relay? Search for "how to report open relay" to find a 3rd party tool to open relays.

How do I fix an open relay? If you need a network or system security advice, you should hire a competent accredited security consultant. If you feel comfortable troubleshooting on your own, search for "securing systems against spam" or "how to secure your email system against third-party relay".