Staying Safe Online: Your Security Guide

The internet is a fantastic resource, but it is important to stay vigilant. This guide helps you protect your personal information, spot scams, and browse with confidence.

Important: How Sure Communicates With You

• Passwords: Sure will never ask for your password via email.

• Personal/Bank Details: We will never ask you to provide personal or financial details via email.

• Verification: If you receive an email claiming to be from Sure and you are unsure if it is legitimate, do not click any links. Instead, please call us directly on 01624 247247.

Understanding Phishing & Spam

Phishing is a common scam where criminals send fake emails pretending to be from companies like Sure. Their goal is to trick you into clicking a link and entering your private information.

How to Spot a Phishing Email

• Urgency/Threats: They often claim your account will be "closed" or "disabled" unless you act immediately.

• Spelling & Grammar: Watch for frequent typos, awkward phrasing, or poor design.

• Suspicious Links: Hover your mouse over a link (on a computer) to see the true destination URL. If it doesn’t go to an official sure.com address, do not click it.

• Impersonal: Legitimate companies usually address you by name; scammers often use generic greetings like "Dear Customer."

• Unexpected Attachments: Never open unexpected attachments, especially those asking you to "enable macros."

What to do if you suspect a scam:

• Delete it: Do not reply, forward, or open attachments. Forwarding spam can increase the risk of malware reaching other customers.

• Verify: If you are unsure, visit our website by typing the address into your browser manually, or call us.

• Act: If you accidentally clicked a link or entered a password, change your password immediately to something long, complex, and unique.

Best Practices for Online Safety

• Strong Passwords: Use a unique password for every account. A passphrase (a random string of words) is often more secure and easier to remember.

• Security Software: Keep your antivirus software updated (e.g., Norton, McAfee).

• Software Updates: Always install the latest updates for your phone, computer, and apps to ensure you have the latest security patches.

• Public Wi-Fi: Be cautious when using public networks; avoid accessing sensitive accounts like banking unless you are using a secure connection.

Trusted Resources

For more expert advice, please visit these independent resources:

• Internet Matters: Comprehensive digital safety advice for all ages.

• Internet Watch Foundation: Report illegal or criminal content.

• Friendly WiFi: A government-backed initiative for safe public Wi-Fi.

• Card Watch: Tips to prevent credit and debit card fraud.

• Stop Scams: Expert advice on avoiding banking and mobile fraud.