Staying Safe Online: Passwords, Privacy, and Avoiding the Baddies

  • October 4, 2024
  • Posted by: Admin For Osberg Busness Solutions
  • Category: Digital Confidence
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(A.K.A. how not to get tricked by a talking refrigerator or fake prince)

Welcome back!

You’ve made it to Post 3—and that means you’re officially a digital adventurer. 🎉

But like any great quest, the internet has a few dragons. Except here, the dragons are sketchy emails, password thieves, and “Click here for your free cruise!” scams.
Don’t worry though—we’ve got shields.

In this post, we’ll show you how to protect your info, choose good passwords, and avoid sneaky traps. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about learning a few smart habits—and trusting that your gut is usually right.

Skills to Focus On

Strong Passwords = Strong Locks

  • A good password is long, weird, and unique.
    Example: BlueMonkey$Plays_Accordion_2024!
  • Don’t use your dog’s name and “123.” Hackers love dogs.

Use Different Passwords

  • Use a different one for each account.
  • That way, if one gets stolen, the rest stay safe.

What’s a Password Manager?

  • It’s like a safe for your passwords. You only need to remember one.
  • Free options include: Bitwarden and KeePassXC

Spotting a Scam

Watch out for things like:

  • Emails or texts that say “URGENT” or ask for your password
  • Links that look… weird
  • Offers that sound too good to be true

If you’re unsure, don’t click. Ask a friend or search the sender’s info online.

Your Privacy Matters

  • Don’t share your birthday, phone number, or full address on public websites
  • Turn on privacy settings on your apps when you can

Free Tools to Try

Want to Learn More?

Practice & Play: Try This!

Password Upgrade Party!

  • Choose one website you use (email, banking, shopping)
  • Create a new password that’s 12+ characters long and includes:
    • One capital letter
    • One number
    • One symbol (!, #, $, etc.)
  • Save it in a notebook or try using a password manager
  • Bonus: Search your email on Have I Been Pwned. If it shows up—change that password too!

That’s like installing a lock, a peephole, and a motion sensor. You are so ready.

Quick Tips

  • Never give your password over email or text. Legit companies never ask that.
  • Log out of public computers (like at a library or café).
  • If something feels off, it probably is.

Next Up: Talking Online — The Good, the Weird, and the Kind

You’ll learn how to send email, join a Zoom, and connect with others while keeping your peace (and avoiding internet trolls).