Cybercrime continues to affect millions of Americans each year, from data breaches to online scams that target personal and financial information. With more of our lives happening online, it’s important to take proactive steps to protect yourself and your family. Here are six practical ways to stay safer online.
1. Use strong, unique passwords
Strong passwords are your first line of defense. Each account should have its own long, unique password—ideally a passphrase rather than a short or simple word. Reusing passwords across multiple sites can allow cybercriminals to access several accounts at once if just one is compromised. To make this easier, consider using a trusted password manager, which can generate and securely store passwords for you.
2. Enable multi‑factor authentication (MFA)
Multi‑factor authentication adds an extra layer of protection by requiring more than just a password to log in. This may include a temporary code sent to your phone, an authentication app, or biometric verification such as a fingerprint or facial scan. Even if a criminal obtains your password, MFA can stop them from accessing your account.
3. Be cautious—even on “secure” websites
When visiting a website, look for “https” at the beginning of the URL. This indicates that the connection is encrypted, which helps protect information you submit. However, encryption alone does not guarantee a site is legitimate. Always double‑check web addresses, avoid clicking suspicious links, and be wary of urgent or unexpected requests for personal or financial information.
4. Limit risks when using public Wi‑Fi
Public Wi‑Fi networks at airports, hotels, or coffee shops are convenient, but they can also expose your data to cybercriminals. Avoid accessing sensitive accounts or making financial transactions on public networks when possible. If you need to connect, using a virtual private network (VPN) can help protect your information.
5. Keep devices updated and back up your data
Software updates from companies like Microsoft and Apple often include critical security fixes. Delaying updates can leave your devices vulnerable. Enable automatic updates when possible and regularly back up important data on at least two different storage options, with one backup stored offsite or in the cloud.
6. Review your social media privacy settings
Cybercriminals often use social engineering—gathering personal details from social media—to guess passwords or impersonate individuals. Information like birthdays, family names, pets, and locations can all be used against you. Review your privacy settings and limit what you share publicly to reduce your risk.
Children and teens are especially vulnerable, as they spend a growing amount of time online for school, entertainment, and socializing. The Department of Homeland Security’s “Stop. Think. Connect.” campaign offers helpful resources for parents and caregivers looking to improve online safety habits for their families.
By staying informed and practicing smart digital habits, you can significantly reduce your risk and help protect what matters most.
