Help Desk

• How to Get Help
  • When & Where is Help Available?
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• What Do We Support?
  • Software Standards
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• Tips & Documentation
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  • Safe Computing
    • Disinfect & Protect
    • Password Security
    • Email Safety
    • What to Watch Out for On the Web
    • Beware of File Sharing
    • Phishing
  • Email Tips
    • Quota Management
    • Set Up Email Software to Access Simmons Account
    • Simmons Antispam Filter
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    • Saving Paper (and Money)
    • Printing FAQ
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  • Wireless Info

What to Watch Out for On the Web

Browser Safety

• As you surf, pay attention to where links take you. Look at the URL: does it look like the web site you intended to visit?
• If you use Internet Explorer, make especially sure you keep IE and your operating system up-to-date. Microsoft products make excellent targets for mean-spirited hackers.
• If you are unsure whether installing certain browser add-ons are safe or needed, please contact the Simmons Help Desk for advice.
  

Online Shopping

If you are shopping online or filling out a form with any personal information:

• Make sure the URL begins with the letters "https" rather than "http," and look for the lock at the bottom of your web browser. The lock and https indicate that you are using a "secure" web site that will encrypt the data as it travels between your computer and the business or person with which you are trusting your information.
• Do your homework to make sure the individual or company is legitimate: try to obtain a physical address rather than merely a post office box and phone number; call to see if the number is correct and working; send an email to see if the address is active; check with the Better Business Bureau from the seller's area; check out other web sites regarding this person or company. Mostly: do not judge a seller by her/his/its web site!
• Be cautious when responding to special offers, especially when they come through unsolicited email.
• Be cautious when dealing with individuals/companies from outside your own country.
• Use a credit card so you can dispute the charges if something is wrong.

Avoid Identity Theft

• If asked to supply your mother's maiden name, do not supply the real one. Make note of any false information you have supplied for future reference.
• Unless absolutely necessary, do not supply your social security number.
• Keep a list of all of your credit cards and account information along with the card issuer's contact information. Review every bill to be sure the charges are all yours. If anything looks suspicious, contact the card issuer immediately.
• See Fight Identity Theft for more information