Today's online thieves or social engineers are becoming more sophisticated in illegally obtaining sensitive information on the Internet, including passwords, credit card numbers and other confidential data. Thankfully, there are practical steps you can take as a regular netizen to ensure effective online data security and management, without having to resort to a high-tech security infrastructure.

Sleep better at night by following these simple online protection steps:

• Never ever, ever share your passwords. This guideline applies to everyone and anyone you can possibly think of, including your significant other, siblings, parents, close friends and other meaningful persons in your life. The less people who know about your passwords, the better, especially since they themselves can equally become targets of malicious individuals.
• Don't click that link. At the very least, think twice before you do. In the past, hapless individuals have fallen prey to virus attacks and phishing activities, that all began with a simple click of a link from a seemingly harmless or unknown sender. Just Google "I Love You virus" and see how this worm wrought worldwide online havoc in May 2000, because people who clicked its link didn't know any better back then. Bottomline, think before you click.
• Know the mind of a social engineer. Online thieves commonly use simple social methods intended to manipulate their target victims. Their evil scheme usually begins with a phone call, a fake e-mail or a misleading social network message. Foil their plan by choosing with great care, who to trust online and by being very discriminating on whom to entrust your confidential information.

Mobile network provider Sun Cellular partners with all local netizens in their fight against cyber crime and in promoting a safer online world. Remain vigilant whenever online and for consistent reliable connection choose Sun Broadband and Sun Mobile Internet products, available in the most budget-friendly postpaid plans and prepaid packages.

Visit the nearest branch of The Sun Shop to avail a Sun Broadband or Mobile internet plan that’s right for you. If you are a first time mobile internet user, simply text NET to 2300 to get the free internet settings for your handset.

For more information, call 333 for free through a Sun Cellular mobile phone. You may also check www.facebook.com/sunbroadbandph or follow www.twitter.com/suncelldeals for regular Sun Broadband and Mobile Internet product updates and promos.

Sun Cellular is a member of the PLDT Group.