Pasco Sheriff’s Office created one of the largest behavioral health units in the state because we know that mental health is a healthcare issue that can also cause law enforcement concerns. We have established partnerships in our community to address this epidemic because one organization can not handle this major healthcare issue alone. We also recognize that we must break the stigma surrounding mental health and substance abuse, and address it as a healthcare issue. Be kind to one another and have patience. If we treat each other with respect and care, we will accomplish more.
Protection in the digital world is a growing concern for not only ourselves, but our families too. We use the internet multiple times a day, and we’re sharing a lot of information while online. Just like protecting your home, digital security is important to prevent online hacks and attacks. Proper security and protection, is one of the best defense methods against online scams or fraud is your online devices’. Safeguarding your computer for intrusions can potentially stop harmful software from attempting to collect your personal information for cybercrimes or identity fraud. Pasco Sheriff’s Office wants to share proactive internet habits to protect you and your devices before falling victim to intrusions.
Ensure your firewall is always turned on for your computer. Your firewall protects your device from hackers who may attempt to gain access, delete or steal information, obtain your passwords or other sensitive information or even crash your machine. Some computers include prepackaged firewalls within their operating system, while other devices could require additional purchased software. Research your computer to see what is recommended for your machine.
Secondly, install antivirus software for your device to prevent malicious software from attacking and embedding on your device. When antivirus software detects any malicious code, the software will disarm and remove all threats and notify you. Although viruses may infect computers without users’ knowledge, antivirus software is crucial in catching any threats before damage occurs. In addition, most antivirus software is programmed to update automatically, but always ensure yours is current.
Installing available updates for both your operating system and anti-spyware technology is a great step in ensuring your information stays safe. Spyware is software secretly installed on your computer, allowing others to review your activity on the device. Avoid online advertisements offering free anti-spyware, as these can be ploys to steal your information.
Be mindful of what you download. Never open an email, click a link or open an attached file within an email from someone you don’t know or aren’t expecting, and always be cautious of all forwarded attachments. Often, spam emails are another tactic someone could use to obtain your information.
Always turn off your computer when you’re not using it. Leaving your computer on or in sleep mode leave them open to potential attacks. Turning your device off every time goes a long way in keeping you safe from hackers.
Securing your computers and other devices can play a crucial role in protecting your safety online. Cybercrime and online fraud may happen quickly, however, you have the power to prevent hacks and attacks.
One Pill Can Kill
Do you have unused or expired medications in your home? You can avoid these medications falling into the wrong hands and safely dispose of unused and expired medicines at a prescription disposal dropbox. Pasco Sheriff’s Office has secure prescription drop locations, located at each district office. Prescription disposal locations accept both over-the-counter and prescribed prescriptions, vitamins, drug samples, veterinary medications, ointments and lotions. However, these boxes do not accept liquid medications.
Red Flags to Recognize a Scam
As the internet evolves, criminals are presented with new opportunities and methods to commit cybercrime and scams. These crimes continue to develop in complexity, however, recognizing a scam is the first step in preventing yourself from becoming a victim. Pasco Sheriff’s Office is sharing tips and information to prevent you from becoming a target for these scams. Criminals often apply similar practices to various scams. Being aware of the red flags that can help you identify a scam.
Are you looking for a career change? PSO has the following open positions:
For all of our career opportunities visit JoinPSO.com
Coffee with a Cop
Join PSO Tuesday, March 29 at 9 a.m. for a morning of coffee and conversation as we host Coffee with a Cop at Brooklyn Water Bagel in Wesley Chapel. PSO deputies will be on hand to answer questions and get to know their community. We hope to see you there!
Free Food Distribution
Pasco Sheriff’s Office is teaming up with Farm Share, Shady Hills United Methodist Church, and the Pasco County NAACP for a free community food distribution! The next food distribution event will be at the Shady Hills United Methodist Church on Thursday, March 31 and will begin at 9 a.m. It’s first come first served, so come out early! We’re thrilled to connect our community to this resource. See you there!
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