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Security learning centre:
Online security

    Learn about online security

    In today's digital age, online security has become a critical issue. With so much of our personal and financial information now stored online, it's more important than ever to keep ourselves safe from cyber threats. From phishing scams to malware attacks, the dangers of the online world are ever-evolving, which is why staying up-to-date with the latest technology and scams is essential. Our security learning centre is dedicated to providing you with the knowledge and resources you need to stay secure online and protect your valuable data.

    Did you know?

     

    Public wifi

    Did you know that using public Wi-Fi can leave you vulnerable to hackers and cyberattacks? Public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured, meaning that anyone connected to the network can potentially access your personal information, passwords, and sensitive data.

    Smartphones

    Did you know that smartphones are not as secure as many people think? Despite their advanced security features, smartphones can still be vulnerable to hacking, malware, and other security threats.

    Social engineering

    Did you know that social engineering is a common tactic used by cybercriminals to trick people into giving up their personal information? Social engineering involves using psychological manipulation to convince someone to reveal sensitive information or perform an action that is against their interests.

    Passwords

    Did you know that weak passwords are one of the most common ways that cybercriminals gain access to your accounts? Many people use simple, easy-to-guess passwords like "123456" or "password," making it easy for hackers to crack them.
    To be secure online, it is always best to create strong passwords, review individual companies' privacy policies to see how they store and use your data, and lastly, be wary of unsolicited messages or requests for personal information — always verify the identity of the sender before responding.

    Cyber security tips and best practices

    • Use strong passwords
    • Enable two-factor authentication
    • Keep your software updated
    • Beware of current scams
    • Use antivirus software
    • Avoid public Wi-Fi
    • Back up your data
    • Use a VPN for important tasks
    • Limit personal information sharing
    • Stay informed of current trends and technology
    e-Transfer Fraud

    e-Transfer fraud

    e-Transfer fraud is a type of scam where fraudsters attempt to trick victims into sending money through an e-transfer. This is often done by posing as a legitimate individual or company and requesting money from the victim. The fraudster may send a convincing email or text message with instructions on how to make the transfer, or they may use social engineering tactics to gain the victim's trust and persuade them to send the money. In some cases, the fraudster may also gain access to the victim's email or bank account and initiate the transfer themselves.

    Consider setting up auto-deposit in online banking for your transfers to help eliminate the possibility of e-Transfer fraud.
     

    Secure online browsing

    When browsing online, it's important to look for the padlock symbol and "https" in the URL to ensure that you're using a secure, encrypted connection that helps protect your data from being intercepted by hackers or other malicious actors.


    Security Browser Padlock


    Enabling 2 factor authentication

    Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) works by adding an additional layer of security to your online accounts.

    It requires an additional login credential – beyond just the username and password – to gain account access, and getting that second credential requires access to something that belongs to you, like a phone.

    At Prospera, you are automatically enrolled in 2FA. You may periodically be required to enter a code, usually texted to your phone number, to sign in to online banking. You will only receive this prompt from our secure website or app and will still require your password to log in. You should consider using 2FA for all other accounts you have whenever possible.

    Browsers

    Whether you use Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari, Chrome or something else, stay safe online by using the latest version available. 

    The latest versions of web browsers have security features that can identify and block harmful and fake websites and pop-ups, and warn you if a site is flagged as unsafe. Some browsers also have a 'Private Browsing' feature, sometimes called 'Incognito mode' which conceals your browsing history from others. 

    We always suggest you update your browser to the latest version.

     

    When you spend time on the Internet, your browser stores information, such as the websites you visit, the images and files you view, and your personal information, including passwords and login details. This data is held on your computer’s hard drive and is known as ‘cache.’ Even though you may have logged out and closed your browser, this information may remain accessible. Cookies may be required to use online banking. You can protect your data by clearing your browsing history regularly. This can be done in a few easy steps:

    Internet Explorer Users

    1. Click on the ‘Tools’ tab (or use the ‘Ctrl-Shift-Delete’ shortcut).
    2. Select ‘Delete Browsing History’. 
    3. Choose the options you wish to erase and click ‘Delete’.

    Firefox Users

    1. Click on the ‘History’ tab (or use the ‘Ctrl-Shift-Delete’ shortcut).
    2. Select ‘Show all History’ and/or.
    3. Choose the time frame you wish to erase and click ‘Delete’.

    Safari Users

    1. Click on the ‘History’ tab.
    2. Select ‘Show all History’.
    3. Choose the period you wish to erase and click ‘Clear History’.

    Chrome Users

    1. Click on the ‘wrench’ icon on the right-hand side of the address bar (or use the ‘Ctrl-Shift-Delete’ shortcut).
    2. Select ‘History’.
    3. Hover over the items you want to delete and click the box that appears.
    4. After selecting the items, click ‘Remove Selected Items’.

    To delete all browsing history in Chrome: 

    1. Select ‘All Browsing History’. 
    2. Choose the time frame you wish to erase. 
    3. Click ‘Clear Browsing Data'. 
    Phishing

    Phishing

    Phishing is a scam where criminals try to obtain sensitive information such as passwords or credit card details by pretending to be a reputable company or organization. This is often done through fraudulent emails, text messages, or websites.

    To protect yourself from phishing, be cautious when receiving messages from unknown sources, and avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from suspicious emails or text messages. Verify the authenticity of any website you visit, especially when entering sensitive information, by checking for the secure padlock icon and ensuring the URL matches the genuine site.
     

    Top 10 online scams you should be aware of


    By being aware of these common online scams, you can take steps to protect yourself and avoid falling victim to them.
     

    1. Phishing scams: where scammers attempt to obtain sensitive information such as passwords and credit card numbers by posing as a legitimate company or organization through fraudulent emails, text messages, or websites.

    2. Tech support scams: where scammers pretend to be from a tech support company and offer to fix non-existent computer problems for a fee, or by requesting remote access to your computer to install malware.

    3. Online shopping scams: where scammers set up fake online stores and offer attractive deals on products, but never deliver the goods or deliver fake or low-quality products.

    4. Social media scams: where scammers use social media platforms to spread malicious links or to impersonate someone else to obtain personal information.

    5. Investment scams: where scammers offer false investment opportunities with high returns, but ultimately steal your money.

    6. Lottery scams: where scammers inform you that you have won a lottery or sweepstakes, but require payment of a fee to receive the prize, which doesn't actually exist.

    7. Charity scams: where scammers create fake charities to solicit donations, but pocket the money instead of using it for a good cause.

    8. Romance scams: where scammers create fake online profiles on dating sites or social media to establish a relationship with someone and then request money for various reasons, such as travel expenses or medical bills.

    9. Employment scams: where scammers offer fake job opportunities that require payment of a fee or personal information.

    10. Rental scams: where scammers advertise a rental property, request payment of a deposit or first month's rent, but never actually rent out the property or provide access.

    Scam emails often exhibit poor spelling or grammar, use alarmist content to pressure you into divulging personal or banking information, and may claim that you've won a prize but must pay a fee to claim it. To avoid falling victim to these scams, never provide personal or account details in an email or electronic message.
     
     

    Want to learn more? Read our security blogs

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    Cyber-security for seniors

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