Five cybersecurity tips you can use today

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A young woman addresses security on her laptop.

Cybersecurity is an essential part of any online activity. Scammers are continually implementing new scams to try to access your personal information. Here are five steps to help protect yourself from cybercrime.

Passwords

  • Give your accounts unique passwords. To help remember them, consider using a password management tool. 
     
  • Don’t use common words. Use a misspelled word, such as Koats6 instead of Coats6.

Email

  • Look for malicious signs. Before clicking on links or opening an attachment, look for odd word choices, misspelled words, urgent requests or offers that seem too good to be true.
     
  • Guard your personal information. Don’t respond to requests for personal information in an email or a text message unless you initiated the conversation.

Computers

  • Keep your antivirus software updated. Set up automatic updates and service renewal, and regularly back up your data. 
     
  • Watch what you install. Don’t install bootleg or unlicensed software. Also, don’t download peer-to-peer file-sharing programs, which can give other computer users access to your personal files.

Online accounts/E-commerce sites

  • Opt for safety over convenience. Don’t select “remember my password” for the websites you visit or allow e-commerce sites to store your credit card information. Officially log out of sites instead of simply closing the window. 
     
  • Use only secure sites for purchases. Look for https:// in the URL. The “s” stands for secure.

Social media

  • Use strict privacy settings. Review your privacy settings regularly, and set them so only people you know or approve can view your information. 
     
  • Limit what you share online. Keep your full name, address, birthday and even vacation plans private.

For a better understanding of the growing number of scams targeting investors and their money, visit Fraud Awareness and Prevention at edwardjones.ca. If you believe your identity has been stolen, contact the following:

  • Your local police and file a report
  • The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre: (888) 495-8501  (Toll Free) 

If you've been victimized by a scam involving your Edward Jones account, contact your Edward Jones financial advisor for further guidance. 

For assistance with your personal devices, contact your internet service provider or the device manufacturer. Visit edwardjones.ca/privacy for information on what Edward Jones does to protect your accounts from cyberthreats.