As I speak to audiences across the country and even in my own social circle, it is clear that many people feel overwhelmed and under educated about online safety. The saddest comment I hear after a talk is, “Should I just stay off the Internet?”

The Internet is a wonderful resource, and one that is just going to become more and more integrated into our daily lives. So my answer is always, “No!” With a little effort, you can safely navigate the exciting information and services available online.

Although being online has quickly become second nature for many of us, understanding how to deal with the safety concerns doesn’t come as naturally. It takes a little effort to learn what the threats are and how to protect yourself.

Fortunately, there are public and private partners working together on free educational tools that can easily be accessed online. Below are just a few I like to follow and use in my travels:

Resource #1: U.S. Department of Homeland Security Office of Cyber Security and Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center - National Webcasts

Link: http://msisac.cisecurity.org/webcast/

Audience: Includes topics for home users and others who may have little understanding of computers or technical expertise

Best features: These webcasts allow the viewer to hear national experts from government, business and academia speak on critical issues. Many of the webcasts provide links to resources on the topic discussed.

Resource #2: AT&T Tech Channel - ThreatTraq Show

Link: http://techchannel.att.com/showpage.cfm?ThreatTraq

Audience: End users with some understanding of computers and technical professionals

Best features: These videos feel like a personal conversation and are easily searchable with subtopics clearly shown on each video. Topics can cover items from tax scams to bank DDoS attacks. It’s easy to navigate and find the episode that sounds interesting.

Resource #3: SANS Institute - Webcasts

Link: http://www.sans.org/webcasts/?show=012703.php

Audience: Technical professionals or those studying to be

Best features: These webcasts offer a deep dive into topics cyber security professionals are talking about. Hearing from the training experts is always helpful.

Resource #4: National Center for Missing & Exploited Children - NetSmartzKids Videos

Link: http://www.netsmartz.org/NetSmartzKids

Audience: Kids ages 5-17, parents and educators

Best features: Kids are exposed to so much online, and these fun, age-appropriate videos will keep their attention while giving parents a place to start the conversation. Teaching materials and tips sheets have already been created to help enforce the video messages.

Today’s Quick Tip:

Don’t be overwhelmed by online risks. Instead, take some time to educate yourself using the great resources mentioned above. Share them with coworkers and family too!

To get more great information about staying safe online, including access to free monthly newsletters, webcasts and more, visit the Center for Internet Security at www.cisecurity.org. Stay tuned for our next chat!

Kristin Judge is the Executive Director of the Trusted Purchasing Alliance, a division of the Center for Internet Security. She can be reached at kristin.judge@cisecurity.org.