• Install a VPN (Virtual Private Network). By installing a VPN on your devices you can spoof your location and add an extra layer of security to the data you are sending and receiving; allowing you to stay anonymous while surfing online.  Without a VPN your IP address may reveal the city, zip code and area corresponding to your address. To learn more about your IP address and the information it leaves behind, you can visit the following website (link). Visit  (link) find a selection of different VPN providers.
  • Take advantage of search engine’s built-in filters. Many search engines give you the option of choosing a “safer” search when using their services. For example, you can check this link to see how to use SafeSearch on Google, and the following on the safe search plug-in for Firefox.
  • Check security when shopping online. Verify security symbols and encryptions before entering any credit or identification details. Make sure the URL (the website address) seems legitimate (i.e. that the domain name hasn’t change when proceeding to order), and that it is encrypted behind a SSL certificate. A SSL certificate secures your connection to the website by encrypting any sensitive information that you provide, such as credit card information, usernames, passwords etc. An easy way to know if the website is SSL certified, is to evaluate the websites URL, and check whether the connection type is (“http” or “https”), if the connection type is “https”, the website is normally secure behind a SSL certificate. For additional information on how to find out if a website is legitimate please visit the following (link).