Protect your devices

Update apps and software

As new security threats develop, publishers of apps, browsers, and operating systems continously elevate their software to combat the latest threats.

Maintaining the latest version of apps and operating systems helps protect you from security vulnerabilities. Enable automatic updates whenever possible.

Defend against malware

Computer viruses and other malicious software (malware) are designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to devices and networks.

Malware is often disguised as an email attachment. Be on the lookout for short, generic messages like "Hey! Look at this cute puppy!" or "This is funny!” from senders you don’t recognize with scrambled or unconventional email addresses. Malware can also come from website downloads. If you’re not confident the content is being provided by a trustworthy source, don’t download it or click any links.

Secure your devices

Small actions make a big difference when it comes to securing your devices and everything on them.

  • Set your screen to auto-lock after a short period of inactivity
  • Use strong PINs and passwords; the longer they are, the harder they are to hack
  • Enable biometric authentication (fingerprint or Face ID) for additional security and faster access to your device

Protect your home Wi-Fi network

Your home's Wi-Fi router is the primary entry point for cybercriminals to access your connected devices. So, securing your network will help protect your info and identity.

An attacker can easily discover the default username and password that's set by the manufacturer, so it's important to change them as soon as your equipment is installed. The password you choose to connect to your Wi-Fi network should be complex—and different from the admin login.

Secure your smart devices

Speakers, thermostats, security cameras, or fridges that are connected to the internet by what's called the Internet of Things (IOT). While a home with IoT devices makes life more convenient, every connected device introduces a possible security and privacy risk.

This can help prevent a hacker from cracking into one of your smart devices and using it as a conduit to sensitive data on your laptop or phone. Another way to help prevent access to your devices is to disable any features you’re not using—especially those that may be set by default on IoT devices. Remote access, Bluetooth connectivity, or voice control are just a few of the features that can become possible entry points. Shut them down if you’re not using them.

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