Email attachments, hyperlinks in emails, and links to software updates on malicious websites are just some of the tools cyber criminals will use to steal your personal information or gain unauthorized access to your computer.

Protect yourself by following these five tips

1. Stranger danger: Don’t click!

Cyber criminals disguise malware as attachments or links in order to infect your computer. If an email arrives that is unexpected, or the email itself looks suspicious, don’t click on any of its attachments or links and delete the email.

2. Don’t click on software update links

Be careful what sites you visit on the internet. Attackers often infect advertisements on less reputable websites. Right now, be especially wary of not clicking on “Adode Flash” software updates. Clicking on these updates will install malware and infect your computer.

3. Be suspicious if an organization asks for personal information

A reputable company or organization will never use an email to request personal information. If you receive an e-mail requesting you to supply this information, treat the request with suspicion.

4. Check the sender’s e-mail address

A questionable sender’s email address is often the first giveaway. For example, if you receive an email from FedEx and the sender’s address is Fedx1dgw765@hotmail.com, you know this is clearly not from FedEx and the email should be deleted.

5. When in doubt contact the sender or their customer service department

Sometimes a malicious email or web site is difficult to detect. Verify the legitimacy of the email or website by picking up the phone and calling the sender or the website’s customer service number.

There’s help

If you think you’ve clicked or downloaded something questionable, immediately inform the Service Desk. Security is everybody’s responsibility.

For further information, concerns, or to provide comments, contact IMITSSecurity@phsa.ca