Most devices in your home and business connect to each other and to the internet. This may include your smartphone, computer, router, smart TV and speakers. It makes it easier to stay connected, entertained and productive.

More connectivity also brings the risk of online threats. Cybercriminals use many tactics to carry out their attacks. If they hack your device, they could get access to your sensitive data or accounts.

This guide provides some tips and resources to help you secure your devices.

Follow basic security steps

No matter what devices you are using, there are basic steps you can take to protect them.

Keep your devices and software up to date

Cybercriminals hack devices by using known weaknesses in a system or application (app). Updates from app and software providers have security upgrades that fix these weaknesses.

Regular updates are crucial for keeping your devices secure. Especially for devices that are at the edge of your network, such as your router. Find out how to update your device and software.

Back up your files and devices

A backup is a digital copy of your important data such as photos, videos and documents. You can create backups using the cloud or physical media, such as an external hard drive.

If you lose your data, you can use a backup to restore it. Find out how to back up your files and devices.

Use antivirus software

Antivirus software protects your device by scanning for and removing malware. Your device may have built-in antivirus software. You can also download a third-party option that may have better features.

Keep your antivirus up to date and check automatic updates are on. Ensure it does automatic and regular scans of your device and any removable media. Learn more about antivirus software.

Practice good security habits

It is important to practice secure habits and watch out for threats. Follow these tips to stay secure no matter where you are.

Recognise and report scams

Scammers often try to trick you into opening malicious links or attachments. These could install malware on your device.

Think before you open any links or attachments from email, websites and social media. Stay alert and check the sender's email or web address for errors. Report and ignore any messages from people you don't know.

Scammers can also impersonate people or organisations you trust. They may demand you to send them money or give them the login details to your accounts. If you’re unsure, go straight to a source you can trust such as an official website or person you know.

Find out how to recognise and report scams and report scams to Scamwatch.

Use the web securely

To keep your device secure, avoid websites with illicit content and pirated material. These websites pose a high risk for malware.

Make sure to visit websites that start with ‘https’ in the web address. This means that your connection is secure. Websites that only allow 'http' could put your data at risk.

Be careful when shopping online. Falling for a scam could have serious impacts to your livelihood. Learn about secure online shopping.

Avoid using free or public Wi-Fi

Public networks are convenient but can also be unsecure. Cybercriminals will target public networks to gain access to your sensitive data. If you are in public spaces such as an airport or café, avoid using their Wi-Fi.

Only use trusted networks such as your home Wi-Fi or your personal hotspot. Where this isn’t an option, think twice about what you share or access on a public network.

Learn more about connecting to public Wi-Fi and hotspots.

Manage your online presence

Limit what you post online. Also keep track of what others put online about you. Anyone could use the information from your profile, posts, photos and videos. They may use it to guess your login details, scam you or steal your identity.

Check the privacy settings of your accounts. Consider keeping your profiles private and only talking online with people you know and trust.

Be aware that scammers can pose as someone that you know to trick you. If you receive an unusual message from your friends or family, ask them about it offline.

Learn about connecting with others online and protecting your family online.

Keep your online activity private

Businesses often track your online activity. They can collect data about your location, the device you're using or the pages you visit. This data can help them market their products or services. It can give you tailored online shopping experiences.

Common tracking methods use cookies, tracking pixels and social media icons. They can be hard to avoid. To help keep your online activity private, consider doing the following:

Decline optional cookies.
Use a reputable ad blocker that blocks tracking pixels and social media icons.
Use a reputable web browser and search engine that enforces privacy.
Disable automatic image downloads on your email.
Avoid using the in-built web browsers of social media apps.
Use a reputable VPN to hide some of your identifying data.

Lock your device when not in use

Lock your devices whenever you leave them unattended, even if it is only for a short period. Make sure your devices are set to automatically lock after a short time (less than 5 minutes).

Consider using biometrics such as a fingerprint or face ID. Combine this with a strong password to help protect your device from unwanted access.

Don’t connect untrusted external devices

Only use trusted external devices and make sure to buy them from reputable stores.

If you find a random USB drive, don’t plug it into your devices. Cybercriminals can use removable storage devices to infect them with malware.

Prepare for lost or stolen personal devices

One of the biggest risks to your data is from lost or stolen personal devices. Turn on ‘find my device’ and device encryption features. This will protect your data if you lose your device or someone steals it.

Keep your devices in a secure location and know where they are at all times. Avoid leaving them unattended, especially if you are travelling with your devices.

Dispose of your device securely

Take the right steps before disposing of your device. This includes making a backup, erasing your data and performing a factory reset.

Anyone could access devices you dispose of. This includes documents, photos or data that you leave on them.

Even with these steps, someone still may be able to recover your data. Consider using a data destruction service to erase your data securely. Or speak with an IT professional for help. Learn how to dispose of your device securely.

This is Boorowa

Issue 2 · 17 Dec 2024

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