Be cautious of phishing attempts. Always verify the sender's email address, and never click on suspicious links or download attachments from unknown senders. If an email seems urgent, unexpected, or too good to be true, it's likely a scam. When in doubt, delete the email and report it to your IT department.

Use strong, unique passwords for all your accounts. A strong password is at least 12 characters long and includes a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using easily guessable information like your name, birthday, or the word "password.  Consider using a password manager to securely store and manage your passwords.

Always lock your screen when you step away from your computer. This prevents unauthorized access to your information. Keep your operating system, web browsers, and antivirus software updated to the latest versions. These updates often include critical security patches that protect against new threats. If you use a district-issued device, ensure it's protected by a passcode and don't install unauthorized software.

Avoid accessing sensitive information, such as student data or financial records, when connected to unsecured public Wi-Fi networks. These networks are often a target for cybercriminals who can easily intercept your data. If you must use public Wi-Fi, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)to encrypt your internet traffic. It's always safest to use a trusted, private network for sensitive work.

Be mindful of the data you handle. Only access student or staff data that is necessary for your job duties. If you suspect that a device or account has been compromised, report it immediately to your school's IT or administrative staff. Swift reporting can help minimize the damage from a security incident. Do not try to fix the problem yourself.

Have open conversations with your children about their online activities. Supervise their screen time and be aware of the apps and websites they use. Teach them about the importance of not sharing personal information (like their full name, address, or school name) with strangers online. Set and enforce clear rules about what they can and cannot do on their devices.

Ensure your home Wi-Fi network is password-protected and that you are using a strong, unique password. Regularly update the firmware on your router. Teach your children to only download apps and software from official app stores (like Google Play or the Apple App Store) to avoid malware. Make sure all devices used for schoolwork are password-protected.

Cybercriminals may pose as school officials to try and get personal information from you. Always verify the sender of any email or text message claiming to be from the school, especially if it asks for personal details or financial information. If you're unsure, contact the school directly using a phone number you know to be correct, not one provided in the suspicious message.

Educate your children on what it means to be a responsible digital citizen. This includes understanding the impact of their online behavior, being respectful to others, and knowing when to report cyberbullying or inappropriate content. Encourage them to come to you or a trusted adult if they encounter anything online that makes them feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

Consider creating a family media agreement that outlines expectations for device use, screen time, and online behavior. This can help set healthy boundaries and promote safer online habits for everyone in the family. By working together, you can create a safer and more secure digital environment for your child.