Keep software updated
Install updates for your operating system, browser, and apps. Updates often fix security weaknesses. Turn on automatic updates when available.
Lesson 01 / Understand the risks
Common Cyber Threats
Knowing how a threat works makes it easier to recognize and avoid.
Three threats worth knowing
- Malware
- Software created to harm a device, steal information, or interfere with normal use. It may arrive through a harmful attachment, download, or unsafe website.
- Ransomware
- A kind of malware that can lock files or devices and demand payment. Some attackers also steal information and threaten to share it.
- Social engineering
- Manipulating a person into sharing information or taking an unsafe action. A caller pretending to be technical support might ask for an account code or remote access.
Phishing is one common form of social engineering that uses deceptive messages.
Put prevention into practice
Small habits that help
Browse with care
Use official app stores and known websites. Check the full address before signing in. HTTPS encrypts a connection, but it does not prove that a site is honest.
Back up important files
Keep a separate copy of photos and schoolwork. Use a backup service or external drive, disconnect an external drive after backup, and occasionally test that files can be restored.
Think your device is infected?
- Stop entering passwords or other sensitive information on that device.
- If you suspect an active infection, disconnect it from the network to help limit spread.
- For a school or work device, contact the official IT support team. For a personal device, use trusted security software or a reputable support provider.
- If an account may be compromised, use a different trusted device to change its password and review account activity.
Keep a record of suspicious messages and alerts. For recovery and reporting guidance, visit the trusted resources.