Cyber Security Awareness Month is a good time to brush up on your online safety practices.

Here's a safety tip you may not be aware of:

Don't assume a certified site is safe. Although it's vital to have a secure connection when sending personal information online (indicated by "https" before the Web address and a padlock or other icon on your browser), it's no guarantee the Web site is reputable. Similarly, certification symbols from the Better Business Bureau, TRUSTe, and similar organizations provide some reassurance (assuming they're being used with authorization). But they're no substitute for reading the fine print and researching a site by talking to friends and checking online reviews before turning over credit-card or other information.

This is just one of the 19 tips you'll find at our free Online Safety Guide. You'll also find lots of other information and advice, including several entertaining and informative videos.

—Jeff Fox