June is National Internet Safety Month. With nearly 4 billion people on social media worldwide, plus the risks of using online brokerage and bank accounts, the need for digital security has never been higher. These best practices could help keep you personal information safe this month and year-round.

While tech is becoming more secure in response to threats, there are some habits you can adopt to safeguard your digital life.

• Stop – First, take a moment to evaluate your current security measures. Do you use two-factor authorization (2FA) whenever possible? What about a password manager? Do your research and put these measures in place.
• Think – Before clicking a link or posting on social media, consider the information you may be accessing or sharing. A hacker can use minor details to target you or your loved ones.
• Connect – Don’t go on autopilot: monitor your online accounts and devices. Make sure to change your passwords periodically, especially if you get an alert about unusual account activity.

Cybersecurity is a critical element to your financial health. As more of our financial life moves online, our private personal information could be at risk from cyber-attacks. Following these 10 best practices could help you to protect your sensitive personal information.

1. 1. Use Strong Passwords
      The best passwords are at least 12 characters long and combine letters, numbers, and special symbols. Using a password manager can help you keep track of and even generate unique passwords for each website you use.
   2. Change your passwords regularly
      Every few months is a great habit to get into. If you change yours today, remind yourself to change them again in six months.
   3. Use Two-Factor Authentication
      Two-factor authentication (or 2FA), adds a second later of digital protection and is a great way to stay safe online.
   4. Avoid “coffee housing” your personal information
      Never risk disclosing financial information over a public Wi-Fi network. (Broadband is susceptible, too.) It takes little sophistication to do this—just a little freeware.
   5. Look for the “https” & the padlock icon when you visit a website
      Not just http, but https. When you see that added “s” at the start of the website address, you are looking at a website with active SSL encryption, and you want that. A padlock icon in the address bar confirms an active SSL connection. For solid security when you browse, you could opt for a VPN (virtual private network) service that encrypts 100% of your browsing traffic.
   6. Tax time is prime time for identity thieves
      They would love to get their hands on your 1040 form, and they would also love to claim a phony refund using your personal information.
   7. The I.R.S. doesn’t use unsolicited emails to request information from taxpayers
      If you get an email claiming to be from the IRS asking for your personal or financial information, report it to your email provider as spam.
   8. Update Your Software
      Consider allowing automatic updates, and always ensure your computer and phone use the safest versions.
   9. Mind the Wi-Fi
      On an unsecured network, others may be able to see what you’re doing online. Make sure to only access your financial accounts on networks you trust.
   10. Protect You Info
       Protect your personal information by limiting what you share on social media.

Being careful with your personal data means more than just shredding your documents and can have a big impact to your safety online. Share these reminders with friends and family and help protect against identity theft.