Safer Internet Day is observed in more than 100 countries each February to promote the safe and positive use of digital technology.

Online security is a top priority at Summerland Credit Union. This Safer Internet Day, we are working with Stay Smart Online to remind our community to watch out for common online scams, and to ask out loud if something doesn’t seem quite right:

• Online messaging scams can target users via a range of devices, whether they’re at home, at work, or in a public place. Online scams and malicious software aren’t always obvious. Always be careful about providing personal information online, or clicking on unexpected links sent to you via email, SMS or social media.
• Common suspicious messages include competition links sent by SMS, video links on social media, and emails from unknown contacts. Scammers often use trusted brands and logos to make their messages look like the real thing. If you’re not sure, check the suspicious message’s legitimacy by contacting the relevant business or organisation directly.
• If you receive a message that seems out of the ordinary, or doesn’t look right, get a second opinion from a friend before responding or opening a link. Talking through your concerns out loud with a friend or colleague can reassure you and help you to identify messages as fake.
• Help protect yourself from online scams by creating strong passwords, updating your anti-virus software, and frequently backing up your data.

For more information on how to identify a suspicious message, and how to protect yourself online, visit the Stay Smart Online website.