While firewalls and hotspots are helpful, they can’t protect your data from all types of risks. As you continue to work from home pay attention to the actions you take online and how they could compromise your work. Be a smart user and implement the following internet safety practices to your daily telework routine.

• Use strong passwords for all applications on your remote network; stay away from obvious passwords including sequential numbers or letters; use at least 12 characters, uppercase and lower case, and a mix of numbers and symbols
• While browsing online don’t click on links or download programs from unverified sources
• Update your browser settings to block pop-ups from suspicious sources
• Get information from websites you trust, always check to make sure the website URL has an “https” certificate to ensure your information is safe
• Improve your email settings by programming your spam folder to include emails from unknown addresses, emails that contain certain language, and links to exterior sites
• Always back up your information to an external hard drive or the cloud
• Communicate any threats, suspicious emails or links with your IT personnel
• When not in use, turn off your computer or disconnect it from the internet, an easy way to do so is the airplane mode feature which will block the internet connection

The internet is constantly changing, but there are ways to be safer online. Practicing these tips can help create healthy habits that can go a long way in protecting your personal and work data online.