You may be able to easily identify people who could gain access to your home computer, such as family members, roommates, and close friends. Identifying the people who could gain remote access to your computer becomes trickier. As long as you have a computer and connect to the Internet, you are vulnerable to information security risks.
CyberSafe at USPS™ is highlighting best practices you can adopt that may reduce the instance of information on your home computer getting lost or corrupted:
n Lock your computer when you step away from it. By locking your computer, you prevent another person from being able to access all of your data.
n Disconnect from the Internet when you aren’t using it. The likelihood of cyber attacks or virus infections becomes much higher if you are always connected to the Internet.
n Install antivirus protection software and firewalls. By using antivirus software and firewalls, you will more effectively protect your computers and networks.
n Backup your data. Regular data backups reduce the stress or other negative consequences that result from losing important data or information.
n Protect your computer against power surges and outages. Plug your computer and its chargers into surge protectors and power strips to protect your devices against power outages and surges.
It’s also important to remain cautious when communicating online from your home devices. By carefully evaluating the security of emails, attachments, and hyperlinks, you can avoid falling for phishing traps.
The CyberSafe at USPS website https:⁄⁄liteblue.usps.gov⁄cyber) includes additional helpful tips about information security. For more information on staying safe online and at home, visit the United States Computer Emergency Readiness team (US-CERT) website (https:⁄⁄www.us-cert.gov⁄ncas⁄tips⁄ST04-003).
Improving information security at work and at home is a top priority for Postal Service™ employees, suppliers, and customers — so be vigilant!
By keeping our personal and business email accounts secure, we can proactively safeguard our personal and USPS® information. As a community, information security is our shared responsibility, so stay CyberSafe!
— Corporate Information Security Office,
Chief Information Security Officer and
Digital Solutions, 8-18-16
