Most of us have been using our computers and mobile devices much more than usual in the past 12 months. In the rush of setting up an office in the dining room or getting the kids to do their schoolwork at home, have you considered the online threats that are still in the background?
Viruses, scammers, and data theft are not just problems for business and government. All of us have information stored on our computers that is worth the money for someone to steal, and most of us have received emails from unknown people, asking us to click on a link we’ve never seen.
Often just having good practices in place and awareness of online threats can be enough prevention for most issues without the need for spending hundreds on internet security software. It helps to have up-to-date information on the ways that people can harm our families through the computer and online spaces. We've compiled some suggestions to help you get started.
YPRL cybersecurity resources
Register for our online help session on the topic!
Computer Security for Families
Tuesday 11 February, 6.30 pm – 7.30 pm
Cybersecurity expert Remy Coll will lead you and your family through the basic steps for privacy and security on home computers. The session will cover:
- Threats on the internet
- Recognising an online threat
- Account security
- WiFi, Bluetooth, and the internet of things
- Software and Hardware security
Register now and we will send you the link to a free online session via MSTeams.
And here are some books that might help you understand what you can do to protect yourself and your family.
Cybersecurity for dummies by Joseph Steinberg, 2020
If you’re like me and your computer skills are just beginning, this book is a good place to start. It explains which keys to press, step-by-step, and is easy to follow. Just use the sections that you need.
This book explains the main security dangers and regular steps to protect yourself online. Note that you may need to get more details on how to follow the recommended steps on your brand of computer or device.
My online privacy for seniors by Jason Rich, 2019
When I was a teenager, the movie computer HAL knew everything. This book explains what real people can find out about you from your computer, and what you can do to stop them.
Net privacy: how we can be free in an age of surveillance by Sacha Molitorisz, 2020
If you're interested in the bigger picture of online privacy worldwide, this book is for you. It offers some practical steps you can take on your own computer and phone.
Alan Thompson, Community Coordinator, Yarra Plenty Regional Library