eBay is always looking out for your security online. That's why eBay is taking part in the Australian Government's National e-Security Awareness Week, along with Microsoft, Telstra and other security-conscious folk.

5 quick ways to stop online criminals in their tracks

Here are 5 quick and easy tactics to help protect yourself from online scammers and you don't have to be a techie whiz kid to use them:

1) Install or update your security software
Security software can protect you from viruses, spam and spyware. Make sure you have the latest version installed and it's set to run automatically at least once a day. Get more information from the Internet Industry Association.

2) Change your passwords
To make it hard for scammers to guess your passwords use a combination of numbers, capitals and symbols and avoid dictionary words. Make sure all your passwords are different and changed frequently.

3) Delete suspicious emails
Beware of unexpected or dodgy looking emails. You don't want to click on a phishing email and give a scammer your personal details. If in doubt, type the web address straight into your browser, rather than clicking on links in emails. Learn how to protect yourself from phishing.

4) Update your browser
Some of the latest browsers can warn you when you visit a potentially unsafe site and help protect you from phishing attempts. Make sure you're running the current version of your browser and it's set to automatically update.

5) Pay safely
If you don't already have a PayPal account, sign-up and enjoy extra security on your transactions*. On eBay.com.au you can also benefit from PayPal Buyer Protection and Seller Protection.

____________________________________ 

This forum is part of the National e-Security Awareness Week. Go to the Australian Government's website www.staysmartonline.gov.au for step by step information on e-security.