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Digital Spring Cleaning Tips

Spring break and summer vacation are just around the corner! Don’t forget to remind the students and technology users in your life to do some digital spring cleaning. With millions of individuals(link is external) in the U.S. and across the globe falling victim to identity theft, ransomware, malware, data breaches, and phishing attacks, it is imperative to be vigilant and stay safe online. There are many apps and websites that can take advantage of your personal data, so it is important to maintain a clean digital footprint. Below are some helpful tips to get started:

  • Make sure that you are using unique and strong passwords that are at least 15 characters long and are randomly generated.
  • Use multi-factor authentication(link is external) when available to increase digital safety.
  • Never give personally identifiable information to unverified sources through social media, email, text messages, or over the phone such as name, address, banking information, social security number, etc.
  • Delete potential smishing (text messages) or phishing (emails) from unknown senders and never click on questionable links.
  • Don’t add geotags to social media posts/photos in real time; this can indicate to potential predators that you are not home nor closely monitoring your accounts.
  • Backup all important information; schedule automatic updates and backups when available.
  • Turn on notifications and alerts for in-person and online credit card purchases through your mobile banking app.

Are you interested in helping our nation combat cybercrime? Join the cybersecurity workforce! According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics(link is external), cybersecurity professionals can earn a median annual salary over $102,000; and with hundreds of thousands of open cybersecurity jobs across the U.S., now is the time to apply!

Visit cisa.gov/careers(link is external) for more information or explore open cybersecurity jobs in your area and around the world using the Cybersecurity Careers Map.

And don’t forget to follow us on social media for the latest updates on cybersecurity and career opportunities.

Questions? Email us at NICCS@mail.cisa.dhs.gov(link sends email).

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