Juggling dozens of unique, complex passwords for all your online accounts is nearly impossible. A password manager acts like a secure digital vault, creating and storing strong, unique passwords for you. You only need to remember one master password to unlock them all, which dramatically boosts your account security.

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds a crucial second layer of security to your accounts. Even if a cybercriminal steals your password, they won’t be able to log in without the second “factor”—usually a code sent to your phone or generated by an app. It’s one of the most effective ways to prevent unauthorized access.

Software updates aren’t just for new features; they often contain critical security patches that protect your devices from known vulnerabilities. Cybercriminals exploit these weaknesses to install malware and steal data. Enable automatic updates on your computers and smartphones to ensure you’re always protected.

Free public Wi-Fi is convenient, but it’s often not secure. Cybercriminals on the same network can potentially intercept your data. Avoid accessing sensitive information like your bank account or entering passwords while on public Wi-Fi. For better protection, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your connection.

Imagine losing all your important files and photos in an instant due to a ransomware attack or hardware failure. Regularly backing up your data is your safety net. Use a physical external hard drive or a cloud-based service to keep copies of your essential files so you can restore your information if the unexpected happens.

When shopping (especially online), opt for your credit card instead of your debit card. Credit cards offer stronger fraud protections under federal law, typically limiting your liability to just $50 for unauthorized charges. Since a credit card is not directly linked to your bank account, a security breach won’t drain your cash, giving you time to dispute fraudulent charges without your personal funds being at risk.