Recommended Cyber Security Practices - Strength and Security

Employ Safe Computing Practices

• Lock your computer if you're leaving it for a period of time by setting up a password protected screensaver. Always turn off your computer when you have finished using it.
• Avoid accessing your account from public computers which may have been targeted by hackers and keystroke-capture software. If you must use a public computer, remember the following:
  • Use the virtual keyboard on the login window to avoid having your keystrokes captured.
  • Log out after accessing your account.
  • Never leave the computer unattended while logged in.
  • Clear the browser cache after logoff so that no sensitive information remains stored on the computer.
• Do not share files unless it's absolutely necessary. It's a smart idea to disable the Windows file and printer sharing features, but if you decide to use these, make sure that you configure the access permissions with strong passwords, and only share for specific users.
• Pop-ups: We recommend that you turn on your pop-up blocker and set the filter to the highest possible level. Then either add the IBKR web site to your list of "trusted" sites, or disable your pop-up blocker while using this site.
• Regularly check for security updates and patches for your operating system and use the most current version of your browser.
• Use email safely, and delete messages that don't originate from a trusted source as they may contain harmful attachments or links, or may be an attempt to fraudulently obtain sensitive information. Turn off the "preview pane" in your email system as this function can allow some viruses to be executed even if you never open the email.

Create a Strong Password

• Use the maximum characters available and avoid simple or duplicate alphabetic and numeric sequences or passwords containing personal information.
• Do not share your password with anyone.
• Change your password frequently and do not use the same password for multiple systems.
• Do not leave notes on your monitor, keyboard or desk to help you remember your passwords.
• Do not enable any application features that would automatically log you in or pre-fill the username or password fields.