Don't ever say, "It won't happen to me." We are all at risk and the stakes are high - both for your personal and financial well-being  and for the County's standing and reputation. 

• Cybersecurity is everyone's responsibility.
• By following the tips below and remaining vigilant, you are doing your part to protect yourself and others. 

Installing software updates for your operating system and programs is critical. Always install the latest security updates for your devices:

• Turn on Automatic Updates for your operating system.
• Use web browsers such as Chrome or Firefox that receive frequent, automatic security updates.
• Make sure to keep browser plug-ins (Flash, Java, etc.) up-to-date.

Phishing scams are a constant threat - using various social engineering ploys, cyber-criminals will attempt to trick you into divulging personal information such as your login ID and password, banking or credit card information.

• Phishing scams can be carried out by phone, text, or through social networking sites - but most commonly by email.
• Be suspicious of any official-looking email message or phone call that asks for personal or financial information.

We all have too many passwords to manage - and it's easy to take short-cuts, like reusing the same password.  Have different passwords for items that you access at home and for resources you access at work.

Avoid visiting unknown websites or downloading software from untrusted sources. These sites often host malware that will automatically install (often silently) and compromise your computer.

If attachments or links in the email are unexpected or suspicious for any reason, don't click on it.

The physical security of your devices is just as important as their technical security. 

• If you need to leave your laptop, phone, or tablet for any length of time - lock it up so no one else can use it. 

Considering how much we rely on our mobile devices and how susceptible they are to attack, you'll want to make sure you are protected:

• Lock your device with a PIN or password - and never leave it unprotected in public.
• Only install apps from trusted sources (Apple AppStore, Google Play).
• Keep the device's operating system up-to-date.
• Don't click on links or attachments from unsolicited emails or texts.
• Avoid transmitting or storing personal information on the device.
• Most handheld devices are capable of employing data encryption - consult your device's documentation for available options.
• Use Apple's Find my iPhone or the Android Device Manager tools to help prevent loss or theft.

Only install these programs from a known and trusted source. Keep virus definitions, engines and software up-to-date to ensure your programs remains effective.

Back up regularly - if you are a victim of a security incident, the only guaranteed way to repair your computer is to erase and re-install the system.