Cyber Security Awareness Tip of the Day: October 16

Yesterday's Tip of the Day was directed toward the younger children in the house. When your children get a bit older, they are going to be IM'ing (Instant Messaging). It is important to set guidelines for your children and to also lock down their account so only friends known to them are added to their contact list.

October 16 Tip of the Day

Be sure your tweens and teens understand the rules of the road when using instant messaging. Review the 10 tips for safer instant messaging from Microsoft for the entire family:

Communicating by using an instant messaging (IM) program has some of the same security and privacy risks as e-mail, but there are a few unique dangers that you should be aware of.

1. Never open pictures, download files, or click links in messages from people you don’t know. If they come from someone you do know, confirm with the sender that the message (and its attachments) is trustworthy. If it's not, close the instant message. See 5 steps to help avoid instant message viruses for more information.
   
   
2. Be careful when creating a screen name. Each IM program asks you to create a screen name, which is similar to an e-mail address. Your screen name should not provide or allude to personal information. For example, use a nickname such as SoccerFan instead of BaltimoreJenny.
   
   
3. Create a barrier against unwanted instant messaging. Do not list your screen name or e-mail address in public areas (such as large Internet directories or online community profiles) or give them to strangers.
   
   Some IM services link your screen name to your e-mail address when you register. The easy availability of your e-mail address can result in your receiving an increased number of spam and phishing
   
   
4. Never provide sensitive personal information, such as your credit card numbers or passwords, in an IM conversation.
   
   
5. Only communicate with people who are on your contact or buddy lists.
   
   
6. If you decide to meet a stranger that you know only from IM communication, take appropriate safety precautions. For example, do not meet that person alone, (take a friend or parent with you), and always meet and stay in a public place, such as a cafe.
   
   
7. Don't send personal or private instant messages at work. Your employer might have a right to view those messages.
   
   
8. If you use a public computer, do not select the feature that allows you to log on automatically. People who use that computer after you may be able to see and use your screen name to log on.
   
   
9. Monitor and limit your children's use of IM. One way to do this is to sign up for Windows Live OneCare Family Safety. If you use Windows Vista, it comes with parental controls built-in.
   
   For more information, see How Windows Vista can help you protect your kids online.
   
   
10. When you're not available to receive messages, be careful how you display this information to other users. For example, you might not want everyone on your contact list to know that you're "Out to Lunch."

For more information, read Control Your Online Status Using Windows Messenger and Set Your Online Status.

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