Small steps lead to a safer online experience
Bowling Green, Ky. (February 11, 2025) — Today is World Safer Internet Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about internet safety and creating a safer online environment for everyone.
At our organization, we believe that “everyone belongs in a Connected Nation (CN).” That’s why we want to take this time to remind you about several simple, free steps you can take to protect yourself from online hackers, fraudsters, and malware.
“Focus on the doing the little things correctly,” says Dr. Michael Ramage, CN’s Strategic Broadband Advisor and an online security expert. “Create strong, unique passwords, don't click on links you’re not sure of, don't trust anything online until you verify it. Those things will stop 99% of attacks.”
We all should take steps to protect our online accounts. One study estimated that cyber attacks (like phishing or ransomware) happen every 39 seconds. Globally, cybercrimes are estimated to rack up more than $10.5 trillion in damages by the end of this year. And these are risks that not only large corporations face – small businesses and individual households are also at risk of falling victim to online scammers.
The nonprofit Connectsafely.org offers a series of guides designed to help you better understand some of today’s popular apps, risks to avoid, and how to explore the internet more safely. The guides cover everything from the basics of TikTok to safe online dating to location sharing. Thanks to resources like this, you don’t have to have Ph.D. in cybersecurity to take the simple actions that will help you stay safer today and all year long!
To learn more tips for staying safer online, follow Connected Nation on Facebook, X, or Instagram. Also, check out our website to see how we are helping states, communities, and families safely stay connected.
#SaferInternetDay
About the Author: Chris McGovern is the Connected Nation Director of Research Development. Chris works with Connected Nation staff and external stakeholders to develop research deliverables and provide critical analysis. He uses qualitative and quantitative techniques to interpret data, formulate reports, and make substantiated recommendations based on research findings.