Digital Safety First: Essential Tips to Secure Your Devices and Data

"The best way to predict the future is to create it." – Peter Drucker

In today's hyper-connected world, digital security isn’t just an option—it’s a necessity. With cyber threats like identity theft, malware, and phishing attacks on the rise, safeguarding your personal information and securing your devices should be a top priority.

Did you know? According to the 2023 Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report, over 74% of data breaches involved human-related errors, such as weak passwords or falling for scams. However, the good news is that adopting a few simple digital hygiene practices can prevent most cyber threats.

Here’s your essential guide to enabling privacy and security features on your digital devices to keep your data safe.

1. Strengthen Authentication and Lock Screen Security

Your first line of defence against unauthorized access is strong authentication methods.

✅ Use Biometric Authentication:
Enable fingerprint or facial recognition to prevent unauthorized access. According to Statista, by 2025, over 1.4 billion people are expected to use biometric authentication on their devices.

✅ Set a Strong Passcode or Pattern:
A six-digit passcode is 100 times more secure than a four-digit one. Avoid using predictable patterns like "1234" or "0000."

✅ Enable Auto-Lock:
Set your device to lock automatically after inactivity, reducing the chances of someone gaining access.

📌 Tip: Combine biometric authentication with a strong passcode for maximum security.

2. Enable Google Play Protect (Android Users)

Google Play Protect is an essential built-in security feature that continuously scans apps for malicious behaviour.

🔹 How to Enable It:

1. Open Google Play Store.
2. Tap your profile icon > Play Protect.
3. Ensure "Scan apps with Play Protect" is turned on.

🔹 Why It Matters:

• It scans apps daily for threats.
• Provides alerts if an app is harmful.
• Offers real-time protection from unsafe downloads.

📊 Fact: Google Play Protect scans more than 100 billion apps every day!

3. Enable "Find My Device" to Track Lost or Stolen Phones

Losing your phone can be devastating, especially if it contains sensitive information. Find My Device (Android) or Find My iPhone (Apple) allows you to track, lock, or erase your device remotely.

🔹 How to Activate:
For Android:

1. Go to Settings > Security > Find My Device.
2. Toggle it ON.

For iPhone:

1. Go to Settings > Apple ID > Find My iPhone.
2. Enable "Find My iPhone" and "Send Last Location".

📌 Tip: Always keep your location services enabled to maximize tracking accuracy.

4. Update Emergency Contact Information

Having emergency contact information accessible from your lock screen can be a lifesaver in case of accidents or medical emergencies.

🔹 How to Set It Up:

1. Go to Settings > Safety & Emergency.
2. Add emergency contacts and medical details.

🔹 Why It’s Important:

• Emergency responders can quickly access vital medical information.
• Family members can be notified instantly in case of emergencies.

📌 Tip: Ensure emergency contacts are trusted individuals who can assist you in critical situations.

5. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for Extra Security

Even if someone gets hold of your password, 2FA prevents unauthorized access by requiring an extra verification step.

🔹 How to Enable 2FA:

• Google Accounts:
  • Go to Google Account Settings > Security > 2-Step Verification > Enable.
• Social Media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc.):
  • Navigate to Settings > Security > Two-Factor Authentication.

📊 Fact: A report by Microsoft found that 2FA blocks 99.9% of automated cyberattacks.

📌 Tip: Use authenticator apps like Google Authenticator instead of SMS-based 2FA for stronger security.

6. Activate Safe Browsing to Avoid Malicious Websites

Cybercriminals often use fake websites to steal personal information. Safe browsing features help you avoid phishing scams and malware-laden sites.

🔹 How to Enable It:

• Google Chrome:
  • Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Security > Select Enhanced Protection.
• Safari:
  • Go to Settings > Safari > Enable Fraudulent Website Warning.

📊 Fact: Google’s Safe Browsing technology protects over 4 billion devices daily from malicious threats.

📌 Tip: Always check for "HTTPS" in the website URL before entering personal data.

7. Use YouTube Kids for Child-Safe Content

The internet is full of content unsuitable for children. YouTube Kids provides a safe, controlled environment for young viewers.

🔹 Benefits of YouTube Kids:

• Filters out inappropriate content.
• Allows parental controls and screen time limits.
• Provides educational videos tailored for kids.

📌 Tip: Enable "Approved Content Only" mode to ensure kids watch only handpicked videos.

8. Implement Parental Controls for Safer Online Experiences

Parental control settings help restrict children’s access to unsafe apps, websites, and content.

🔹 Best Parental Control Tools:

• Google Family Link (Android)
• Apple Screen Time (iOS)
• Microsoft Family Safety

📌 Tip: Have an open conversation with your children about digital safety and responsible online behaviour.

9. Be a Digital Role Model

Children often mimic adult behaviour when using technology. Set a positive example by practising healthy digital habits.

🔹 Good Digital Practices:
✔ Limit screen time and create device-free zones at home.
✔ Encourage face-to-face interactions over excessive digital consumption.
✔ Teach kindness and empathy in online communication.

📌 Tip: “Think before you post.” A good rule of thumb is: If you wouldn’t say it in person, don’t say it online.

Final Thoughts: Take Control of Your Digital Security

Protecting your personal information and securing your devices is not just about convenience—it’s about safeguarding your digital identity. Implementing these privacy and security features can significantly reduce cyber risks and ensure a safe digital experience for you and your family.

Cybersecurity starts with YOU. Stay informed, stay secure!

Cyber Hygiene Community