Tip of the week: Think twice before clicking links and downloading files

Links and attachments are the most common way malware and scams reach small businesses. One careless tap can steal your passwords or lock your files.

Before clicking, pause and ask:

• Do I know the sender, and did I expect this message?
• Does the link address look genuine, or does it have odd spellings?
• Is the message pushing me to hurry or promising something too good to be true?
• Is the attachment a strange type of file?

If unsure, do not open it. Contact the sender through a different way, such as calling them, to confirm.

Download apps and files only from official sources. Be careful with "free" versions of paid programs, which often hide harmful software.

A tailor in Arusha who receives an unexpected message about a "customer order" with an attachment should verify with the customer first.

Keep your phone's security tools on and updated.

If you click something wrong, disconnect from the internet, change your passwords from another device and tell your provider if money accounts are involved.

This week: agree a rule with your team to confirm unexpected links and attachments before opening them.