The 2019 edition of the European Cybersecurity Month in France around the campaign «I act for my cyber self/selves». «Digital security is above all about simple practices and behaviours that can be adopted on a daily basis.», summarises the French National Cybersecurity Agency (ANSSI), which is coordinating the event.
Ensure your browser is up to date.
The hackers exploit security flaws in operating systems and web browsers such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Internet Explorer, etc. It is therefore essential to keep your browser up to date. If possible, enable automatic updates.
Browse in private mode
All web browsers have a fashion « private«Its main advantage is that it does not record your browsing history on your device. It also limits the amount of information sent to the websites you visit.
Configure your browser to indicate that you refuse to be tracked.
«Some browsers offer an option to tell websites that you do not want them to use information related to your Internet browsing. Commercial websites often use this data to send you commercial offers.», according to the public platform cybermalveillance.gouv.fr.
Depending on the browser, the process for enabling this option will vary.
> If you are using Mozilla Firefox : Go to Options, then to the Privacy tab and tick the box «Tell websites I do not wish to be tracked». Also untick the box «Accept cookies» and tick «Clear history when Firefox closes».
> If you are using Google Chrome : Go to Settings, then to the «Privacy» section, tick the box «Tell websites I do not wish to be tracked» and click OK.
> If you are using Internet Explorer : in the «Security» tab of the menu, click on «enable tracking protection» then on «enable Do Not Track requests».
Delete your history regularly
If you do not wish to activate your browser's private mode, you should still regularly delete cookies, temporary files and your browsing history manually.
Install an advert blocker
Advertisements can hide potential scams or viruses. To hide them, simply download a ad blocker or «ad blocker».
Only install browser extensions when necessary.
The public platform cybermalveillance.gouv.fr recommends installing them from your browser's official extension stores (Chrome Web Store, Firefox Add-ons, Microsoft Store, Safari Extensions).
Be vigilant when browsing the Internet.
For example, avoid visiting dubious websites or connecting from a public computer or Wi-Fi network, as they may be controlled or rigged by a cybercriminal. If you are obliged to do so, do not enter any personal data such as your usernames, passwords or credit card numbers.
Limit the data you share on the Internet
When you register on a website, your personal data may be used by malicious companies or individuals if the site has been hacked. It is therefore advisable to only fill in the mandatory fields on forms.
On social media, it is also advisable not to share overly private information.
Article published on 4 October 2019 in Family File by Sarah Corbeel.
