Consumer Alert: Secure Your Information
Logging on to work from home or connect with loved ones? Make sure you protect your passwords and sensitive information from cyber criminals during the Coronavirus pandemic. Here are a few tips to get you started.
- Do not reveal personal or financial information online.
- Protect your computer by keeping your operating system software up to date and by using security software. Use multi-factor authentication on your accounts and back up your data.
- Make sure your cell phone is up to date by setting your phone settings so software updates automatically.
- Do not answer calls from unknown numbers. Hang up on robocalls and do not press any numbers.
- Do not answer text messages from unknown numbers and do not reply to emails from unknown senders.
- Do not click on links, download apps or download attachments from unknown senders.
- Before you make an online purchase, research the company to determine its legitimacy.
- Be skeptical of texts, emails and phone calls from sources that claim they are with the government or government agencies.
- Get information about government actions regarding COVID-19 from reputable sources. For the most current information, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) websites.
Creating a Workstation
If you're suddenly working from home, you may be tempted to work from your kitchen counter, couch or bed. However, those locations are not ideal for maintaining good posture. There are a few easy things you can do to prevent injuries while working from home.
Set up a proper workstation. Elevate your laptop or computer. The computer monitor should be directly in front of you with the top of the screen at, or just slightly below, eye level. If you sit at a desk or table, leave room underneath to sit comfortably. Elevate the desk if it cannot be adjusted with items from around the house, like boxes or books. Keep your mouse and keyboard on the same surface. During phone calls, use speaker phone to avoid straining your neck.
Have good posture and add lumbar support. Do not slouch or hunch over your workspace. Keep your shoulders down and relaxed. If possible, choose a chair that supports the curve of your spine. Adjust your chair so that your feet sit flat on the floor and keep your thighs parallel to the floor. This will help support good posture. If your chair is too high and cannot be adjusted, use a footrest. If your chair is too low, you can use a pillow or rolled up towel for additional support.
Take breaks and change your position. Staying in the same position for a prolonged amount of time puts certain muscles under stress. For example, sitting for hours at a time can cause muscle stiffness and soreness. You can prevent this by taking breaks to walk and stretch. This will help relieve tension. Walking around your home will help if you cannot go outside.
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