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Protecting yourself from common cybersecurity threats starts with five habits: use long, unique passwords; turn on multifactor authentication; install updates promptly; verify unexpected messages through a trusted route; and keep backups of important files. These steps reduce the risk of account takeover, phishing, malware, and data loss, though none can eliminate every risk.
Secure the accounts that could unlock the rest
Start with your email account, since access to it can help someone reset passwords elsewhere. Then secure financial, shopping, and social accounts with a different password for each.
- Use long, unique passwords. The FTC suggests aiming for at least 15 characters. Avoid reusing passwords across sites; a password exposed in one breach should not unlock other accounts.
- Use a password manager or built-in password generator. These can generate and store distinct passwords. Protect the manager with a strong password.
- Enable multifactor authentication (MFA). MFA requires another proof of identity in addition to your password. When an account supports them, the FTC says authenticator apps and security keys are more secure than codes sent by text or email.
- Keep recovery options available. Methods vary by service and device. Check the account’s recovery process before relying on a security key, and consider a spare key or another supported recovery method. A key can strengthen sign-in but does not protect a device from malware.
- Protect security-question answers. If a service requires them, avoid answers that can be found online. Treat the answers like passwords and use unique, random responses when possible.
CISA’s October 2025 Cybersecurity Awareness Month poster also recommends long, random, unique passwords and names a physical security key as its strongest listed MFA method. That does not mean every service supports security keys or that every key works with every device: check account support and USB or NFC compatibility before choosing one.
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Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Sources: FTC guidance on protecting personal information; CISA’s October 2025 online-safety poster.
Keep devices and apps receiving security updates
Updates often include critical security fixes. Turn on automatic updates for your operating system, web browser, mobile apps, and security software, and install updates promptly when automatic installation is not available. For smart-home devices, follow the manufacturer’s official update instructions.
Check the manufacturer’s current support information for older phones, computers, and connected devices. A device that no longer receives security updates is less secure. You do not need the newest or most expensive model, but it is unwise to rely on a device after its security support ends.
Malware on one device can spread to other devices on the same home Wi-Fi network, according to the FTC. Securing the home network is therefore part of protecting connected devices; use the router manufacturer’s official guidance for configuration details.
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Sources: FTC personal-information guidance; UK NCSC guidance on software and app updates.
Recognize phishing and verify before you act
A phishing message may pretend to come from a bank or utility and claim there is an overdue bill or an account problem. Its aim may be to get you to click a link, open an attachment, or reveal account details. Email was the top method scammers used to contact people in 2024, according to an FTC consumer alert published in April 2025.
- Pause. Treat an unexpected message asking you to act, pay, sign in, or share information as untrusted until you verify it.
- Do not click its links or open its attachments. Do not use the phone number or other contact details in the message either.
- Contact the organization independently. Use a phone number, app, or website you already know is genuine—for example, the number on your card or the service’s official app.
- Report suspicious email. The FTC says you can forward phishing email to reportphishing@apwg.org and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. After checking and reporting, delete the message.
Source: FTC alert on protecting yourself from phishing scams.
Keep backups so lost or compromised files can be recovered
Keep copies of important computer files on an external drive or in a cloud service, and back up phone data. A backup is a recovery measure if files or a device are lost or compromised; it does not prevent phishing, account theft, or malware. Choose a method you can maintain, and check that you can access the saved files when needed.
Source: FTC phishing-scam guidance.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to do if you suspect misuse of your information
If an account may be compromised, use that provider’s official account-recovery process rather than links in an unexpected message. If you are in the United States and believe someone is using your personal information, the FTC directs consumers to IdentityTheft.gov for reporting and a personalized recovery plan. That service and the FTC reporting route are US resources.
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Source: FTC guidance on protecting personal information.
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