Instructions: 

1. Watch and listen to the 60-Second Civics video below. If you'd like, you can also read along using the script that appears below the quiz. Or you can turn on the video's subtitles and read while watching the video.
2. Take the Daily Civics Quiz. If you get the question wrong, watch the video again or read the script and try again.

Episode Description:
The online world is unfortunately full of people who would love to compromise your device and use it for their own purposes. So what can you do to stay secure online? Learn some simple tips in today’s episode!

Security: Digital Citizenship, Part 8

Welcome to 60-Second Civics from the Center for Civic Education. I’m Mark Gage.

 

The online world is unfortunately full of hackers, criminals, state actors, and others who would love to compromise your device and use it for their own purposes.

 

The FBI reported that more than 800,00 Americans filed cybercrime complaints in 2021 with potential losses valued at more than $6.9 billion.

 

So what can you do to stay secure online?

 

Here are some simple tips.

 

1. Use a strong password.

 

No, your dog's name is not a strong password.

 

Use a long password with a combination of numbers, upper and lowercase letters, and symbols.

 

Don't use ordinary words as passwords, as these can be susceptible to what's called dictionary attacks.

 

You might find it helpful to use a reputable password manager, which is software that randomizes and keeps track of passwords for you.

 

2. Always keep your operating system, apps, and browser up to date.

 

Set these to update automatically. 

 

3. On your computer, use antivirus software and a firewall.

 

Set these up to update automatically as well, and set your antivirus software to scan regularly.

 

And remember, never ever click on a link or an attachment that comes from someone you don't know or that looks suspicious, even if it comes from someone you do know, since one common tactic is to impersonate people you might know. 

 

If we all take these few simple steps to keep ourselves safe, we can stop most cybercrime in its tracks.

 

This episode was made possible by the support of T-Mobile.

 

60-Second Civics, where civic education only takes a minute.