Napolitano shares cybersecurity tips

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano (Photo: U.S. Army/Staff Sgt. Jim Greenhill)

With October serving as National Cybersecurity Month, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano is asking Internet users to take eight simple steps to prevent cyber attacks.

Napolitano’s tips:

1. Use antivirus software
2. Be careful which websites you visit
3. Don’t open emails or attachments that look suspicious
4. Set strong passwords, and don’t share them with anyone
5. Keep your operating system, browser, and other critical software optimized by installing updates
6. Maintain an open dialogue with your family, friends, and community about Internet safety
7. Limit the amount of personal information you post online, and use privacy settings to avoid sharing information widely
8. Be cautious about what you receive or read online – if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is