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We all spend a significant amount of time on the internet these days. For some, that means scrolling through social media; for others, it’s using the latest AI tool. But in all these use cases, you might be surprised by how exposed your family is to cybersecurity risks.

Learning all the different threats can feel overwhelming. And it’s natural to worry about what could happen if something goes wrong. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Set Up MFA

One of the easiest ways to protect your family’s online accounts is to set up multi-factor authentication (MFA). Instead of using just a password when logging in, you will have to enter a code sent to your phone or email.

This extra step makes it harder for someone to break into your accounts, even if they have your password. Encourage everyone in your family to enable MFA on their accounts.

Keep Devices Updated

It can be tempting to ignore those software updates that pop up on your phone or computer. But they’re more important than you might think. These updates often fix security holes that hackers can exploit to get into your devices.

It’s crucial to install all software updates as soon as possible. The National Cybersecurity Alliance recommends turning on automatic updates and restarting your devices once per week. This way, your devices will stay safe, even if you miss a notification or forget to run an update.

Use a VPN

Whenever you access the internet, it’s a good idea to use a virtual private network (VPN). A VPN encrypts your online traffic. This encryption makes your data unreadable to third parties, including hackers or your internet service provider. A VPN also hides your IP address, making it harder for websites and advertisers to build profiles of your activity.

If you’re unsure of types of vpn best suited for your family, look for an option that lets you connect multiple devices at once. You should also look for a provider that offers extra security features that help you browse safely. Examples of such features include malware blockers and dark web monitors.

Adjust Privacy Settings

It’s easy to overlook privacy settings on websites and apps, but it’s worth checking them on a regular basis. Go through your family’s accounts—especially your kids’—and make sure their private information isn’t public. For example, you should set social media posts to only be visible to friends or people you trust.

Take the time to limit what others can see, and don’t be afraid to adjust the settings to increase privacy. It’s a vital way to keep personal information safe.

Empowering Your Family to Stay Secure Online

The internet is an incredible resource, but it’s important to put safeguards in place while using it. These measures don’t have to be complicated—small actions like those above can make a surprisingly large difference. By being proactive, you can ensure your loved ones stay secure while enjoying everything the online world has to offer.

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