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Protect Your Identity, Top 5

Overview

Keeping your identity safe online helps protect your personal and school accounts from hackers and scammers. These simple tips can help you secure your information and reduce the risk of identity theft. Follow these steps to build good habits that protect your data every day.

Getting Started

Use these practical steps to strengthen your online identity. Each part focuses on one key way to stay secure.

Create Strong Passwords

Making strong passwords makes it harder for someone to guess your login information.

  1. Choose passwords that are long (at least 16 characters), complex, and hard to guess.
  2. Use a mix of upper/lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters (when possible).
  3. Do not reuse the same password on multiple accounts.
  4. Never share your passwords with anyone.

Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA adds extra security by requiring two or more ways to prove your identity when logging in.

  1. Turn on MFA for your important accounts, like email or school systems.
  2. Follow the instructions your account provider gives to complete setup.
  3. Use authentication apps or device codes instead of text messages when possible.

Limit What You Share

Sharing too much personal information online can make it easier for scammers to steal your identity.

  1. Avoid posting personal details (like birthdate, address, or phone number) on social media.
  2. Be cautious about what you share publicly, even with friends.

Avoid Public WiFi

Public WiFi can be unsafe because hackers can intercept what you send over the network.

  1. Use your mobile data plan when possible for sensitive tasks.
  2. Confirm the official WiFi network name before connecting at public places.
  3. Turn on your device’s firewall and use a trusted virtual private network (VPN).

Watch Out for Scams

Scammers often try to trick you into giving up personal information or clicking harmful links.

  1. Do not click links or open attachments from unknown or unexpected emails.
  2. If a message looks suspicious, verify the sender through official contact information.
  3. Remember that scammers may impersonate trusted organizations, like your school or bank.

Resources

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