Protect yourself from spam while using electronic devices

(NC) – Canada's anti-spam legislation (CASL) aims to promote electronic commerce by addressing malicious forms of online activities. In addition to this new law, the federal government has developed a number of resources to help people safeguard their electronic devices such as mobile phones, smartphones, tablets and computers.

Along with a Mobile Protection Toolbox, the Fight Spam website at www.fightspam.gc.ca offers these and other tips:

• Install anti-spam, anti-virus and firewall protection on your electronic devices and keep them up to date.

• Reduce your risk when using public Wi-Fi networks:

- Ensure you use the correct network. Ask your host for the network name and password before surfing.

- Make use of your computer's built-in security features.Take advantage of the encryption and security features offered on many social networking sites (usually found under "privacy" or "account" settings).

- Avoid online banking or exchanging sensitive information while on public networks.

• Use a primary email address for your trusted personal and business contacts and a secondary email address for use in online activities such as filling out forms or joining communities.

• If you are unsure about an email message and it looks suspicious, don`t open it.

www.newscanada.com