A new year brings new opportunities. What a great time to review your cybersecurity practices! Evaluate every aspect of your digital life. Check your social media privacy settings. Delete or update your apps. How secure are your passwords? Those new toys you got over the holidays? Change those default settings!
Here’s a checklist to ensure that you are doing your best to keep yourself, organization and privacy safe and secure.
- Patch your operating system. Update your software.
- Make sure to use secure browsers and keep them up to date.
- Don’t visit non-secure websites. Visit HTTPS websites to ensure encryption is being used. Look for the closed padlock in the address bar.
- Use anti-virus/anti-malware software. This is your first line of defense against viruses.
- Make sure you use unique and secure passwords. Use a passphrase; they are harder to crack and easier to remember. MOREnet Cybersecurity recommends at least 15 characters. Use a password manager to help keep track of your passwords.
- Use two-factor authentication whenever possible.
- Avoid using public wi-fi. Use a VPN if you need to attach to public Internet access. Do not log into any sensitive accounts.
- Turn off wi-fi and Bluetooth on your mobile device when not in use.
- Check your privacy settings on social media sites. Don’t overshare personal information. If you no longer use the account, disable it.
- Remove or update apps. If you aren’t using it, get rid of it. Outdated apps can have security issues.
- Be wary of suspicious and unsolicited emails asking for personal information. Phishing will continue to be a prevalent means of cyber attacks. Think before you click.
- SMS and phone calls are also popular means of social engineering attacks. If someone contacts you wanting access to your system or requesting personal information, do not respond.
- Backup your systems! If you fall victim to ransomware, this backup will be your only reliable resource for recovery.
- Your interconnected home devices are only as secure as its weakest link. Make sure you are using strong passwords, encryption and all devices are up to date. Replace default configurations and passwords.
Take a moment to check yourself. Follow security best practices throughout the year for a positive digital experience.
Resources
The Best Password Managers for 2025
The Ultimate Guide on How to Manage Social Media Privacy Settings
Securing Your Internet Connected Devices at Home