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You do not need to be a security expert to stay safe online. You just need a few good habits that protect you from the vast majority of hacks and scams.
1. Use strong, unique passwords
The biggest risk is reusing the same password everywhere. Use a different strong password for every account. The easiest way to manage dozens of them is a password manager, which creates and remembers them so you only memorize one master password.
2. Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA)
2FA means that even if someone steals your password, they cannot get in without a second code. Turn it on for your email, bank, and social accounts first. If you do one thing today, enable 2FA for your email; it is the master key that resets every other account.
3. Learn to spot phishing
Most hacks trick you into letting them in. Be suspicious of urgent messages, links asking you to verify your login, and senders whose email address does not match the real company. When in doubt, go to the website directly by typing the address yourself.
4. Keep your software updated
Updates patch the security holes attackers use. Turn on automatic updates for your operating system, browser, and apps.
5. Protect your devices
Run reputable security software, and lock your phone and computer with a PIN or biometric. If a device is lost, that lock buys you time to change passwords.
Keeping files organized keeps them safer too. Run our free File Audit Tool to see what sensitive files you have and where.