What do you do if your mentee's information is at risk when using technology?

1 Assess Risk

The first step when you discover your mentee's information is at risk is to assess the severity of the situation. Determine what information is vulnerable and how it might be compromised. Is it a weak password, a phishing scam, or a malware attack? Once the risk is identified, you can prioritize actions to mitigate it. Encourage your mentee to change passwords regularly and use complex combinations of letters, numbers, and symbols. Explain the importance of not clicking on suspicious links and the need to keep software updated to protect against security vulnerabilities.

2 Educate Promptly

Once the risks are assessed, promptly educate your mentee about the potential threats. Explain how data breaches, identity theft, and online scams work. Make sure they understand the importance of keeping software up to date, recognizing secure websites (look for HTTPS in the URL), and being cautious with Wi-Fi networks, especially public ones. Teach them to back up important data regularly and to be mindful of the information they share online. It's also essential to instill a sense of vigilance about privacy settings on social media and other platforms.

3 Implement Solutions

After educating your mentee, help them implement practical solutions. Guide them through setting up two-factor authentication for an extra layer of security on their accounts. Show them how to install and update antivirus software. If necessary, walk them through the steps of a cybersecurity cleanup, which might include removing unwanted apps or software that pose a risk to their information. Stress the importance of regularly reviewing account activity and encourage them to reach out if anything seems amiss.

4 Monitor Progress

Monitoring progress is key in ensuring your mentee's information stays secure over time. Set up regular check-ins to discuss any new technologies they're using and to refresh their knowledge on best practices for online safety. Encourage them to ask questions and share their experiences with technology. This ongoing dialogue helps reinforce the importance of cybersecurity and ensures that your mentee remains vigilant about protecting their information.

5 Encourage Vigilance

Encouraging vigilance is about fostering a proactive mindset in your mentee. Remind them that technology is ever-evolving, and so are the tactics used by cybercriminals. Encourage them to stay informed about the latest security threats and to be skeptical about unsolicited communications asking for personal information. Instilling a habit of questioning and verifying can go a long way in protecting their data.

6 Plan for Breaches

Despite all precautions, breaches can still occur. Teach your mentee how to recognize signs of a breach, such as unexpected account activity or unfamiliar charges on their statements. Discuss the steps to take if they suspect their information has been compromised, including changing passwords immediately, contacting relevant institutions, and considering a credit freeze if necessary. Preparing them for the worst-case scenario can minimize damage and stress if a breach does happen.