Smart ways to protect your information online

So much of our lives happens online. We shop, scroll, bank, schedule, and search from our phones and computers every day. That convenience also means our personal information is shared more widely than ever. With a few smart habits, you can stay protected and reduce your risk of scams or security mishaps.

Start with stronger passwords

A solid, unique password is your first line of defense online.

Do:

• Use long passwords with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols

• Update passwords periodically

• Consider a reputable password manager

Don’t:

• Reuse passwords across different sites

• Use birthdays, a pet’s name, or other easy-to-guess details as passwords

• Use your Social Security number as a username or password

Consider what you share on socials

What you post online can be a target for scammers to guess passwords, answer security questions, or impersonate you. 

Do:

• Review your privacy settings on social media channels regularly

• Avoid posting your date of birth, address, or phone numbers

Don’t:

• Post answers to common security questions (like a pet’s name or schools attended)

• Share sensitive account details through email or direct messages

• Assume your profile is fully private on social networks

Check that a website is secure

Not every website treats your data with the same level of care. Before entering personal or financial details, look for a few signs that the site is secure.

Do:

• Look for “https://” at the beginning of the web address

• Check for the lock icon in your browser’s address bar which indicates the connection is encrypted

• Only buy from online merchants you recognize and trust

Don’t:

• Complete financial transactions on public Wi-Fi

• Ignore browser warnings about unsafe or unsecured pages

Stay alert in your inbox

Email is a common channel for fraud. Knowing what to look for helps you keep sensitive information secure.

Do:

• Double-check email addresses and website links from unknown senders

• Verify requests directly through official websites or phone numbers

• Take a pause if a message feels rushed, urgent, or unusual

Don’t:

• Click unexpected links or open unfamiliar attachments

• Share personal or account information in response to unsolicited messages

Secure your devices

Your devices connect you to everything. Following security best practices helps reduce your risk of unauthorized access to your accounts.

Do:

• Use a passcode or biometric password (like fingerprint or face ID)

• Enable multi-factor authentication

• Set up account alert notifications

Don’t:

• Delay installing software or security updates

• Download apps from unknown or unverified sources

• Store passwords or sensitive information in an unprotected app on your phone or computer

Online security starts with small, everyday decisions. Taking a few proactive steps now can help prevent bigger issues down the road.

Have questions about your Tilt account? Reach out to Support at (888) 943-8967 or help@tilt.com.