During uncertain times, cybercriminals can often take advantage of it as we all turn to the internet for information and communication. We urge everyone to be vigilant. Keep you and your families safe online with these 5 important reminders:

1. Tighten Up Your Online Security

Always update and install the latest security patches on all your devices and apps, including your home router, social media accounts, and laptops. Turn on multi-factor authentication or 2-step verification on every service you use such as your email or social media accounts.

2. Think Before You Click

Look out for social media posts, unsolicited emails or texts about the current situation that include links or attachments. These could be scams or phishing attempts to steal your personal information.

Also, be wary of potential fake charity sites or illicit requests to donate funds. Check out the free tool Trend Micro ScamCheck for extra help preventing scams.

3. Install Trend Micro Maximum Security: Keep It Updated

Your Trend Micro program will constantly check online for security updates to stop new threats every three hours. Here’s how to check if you have the latest update installed.

4. Stick To Reliable Sources

Pay close attention to any news, particularly any stories, images or videos that may elicit a strong emotion. Use well-known news sources by going directly to their sites. Make sure you verify what you are reading before you click, comment or share so as not to spread misinformation.

5. Back Up Your Data

Keep your backup data in a location not directly connected to your device.

Stay safe out there, folks. And as ever, if you’ve found this article a helpful read, please do SHARE it with friends and family to help keep the online community secure and protected.