01 Nov

Click Carefully! Protect Yourself Online

Teenagers are great multitaskers. You might be on Facebook, looking at a friend’s latest update, texting another friend, listening to music on iTunes and reading a website dedicated to your favorite celebrity, all at the same time. There’s one more thing you should be thinking about when using the Web – your safety.

It’s easy to get caught up reading a funny post, then click on a link and next thing you know, you’ve infected your computer with a virus. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind while surfing the Web:

  • Think before clicking links. If you see a link from a friend on Facebook or Twitter, think twice before clicking on it. Sometimes hackers hijack accounts and post links, hoping people will click on them. When you do, your computer downloads a virus.
  • Don’t give out personal information. Don’t post your address, school or other personal information on social media sites. Also, if you get an email asking you for account information, such as your bank or credit union account or Social Security number, do not respond. These are from scammers who want to steal your information.
  • Create strong passwords. A good password can help keep your accounts and personal information safe. Don’t use the same password for all your different accounts. Create unique passwords that include special characters (@, !, #, etc.), numbers and letters.
01 Nov

Be a Smart Shopper

Jeans, T-shirts and other clothing may cost more this fall. But don’t despair if you need some new threads. Try these tips to make your clothing
budget go further.

Know what you need. Assess your wardrobe before you go shopping. Plan to replace essentials that no longer fit or are worn out.

Update your look with accessories instead of more clothes. Statement jewelry, a colorful scarf or simply adding a belt or a vest can take a basic shirt and jeans up a notch. Plus they save closet space!

Think about complete outfits when you buy. To get the most mileage from your clothes, buy items that are versatile.

Hit sales racks, discount department stores or outlet malls. Popular styles at lower prices – enough said!

Consider a clothing and accessories swap with friends or relatives. Trading clothes, bags and jewelry can be a fun and free way to give new life to items your best friend or stylish cousin no
longer wears.

SHOP VINTAGE

Shop second-hand stores. Consignment shops are ideal places to find gently used (and sometimes never worn) designer brands at a much lower cost than new.