1. Create Strong, Unbreakable Passwords

Weak passwords are a hacker’s easiest target. Strengthen your defenses with these best practices:

• Use at least 12 characters, mixing uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols.
• Avoid personal details like birthdays or pet names—hackers guess these first.
• Use a password manager (e.g., Bitwarden, 1Password) to generate and store secure passwords.

“Passwords are like underwear: change them often, keep them private, and don’t share them with strangers.”

2. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA adds an extra security layer beyond passwords. Even if hackers steal your password, they can’t access your account without the second factor.

• Use authenticator apps (Google Authenticator, Authy) instead of SMS codes—they’re harder to intercept.
• Enable MFA on email, banking, social media, and cloud storage accounts.

3. Update Software & Devices Regularly

Outdated software has security flaws hackers exploit. Stay protected by:

• Turning on automatic updates for your OS, apps, and antivirus.
• Checking for firmware updates on routers and smart devices—these often patch critical vulnerabilities.

4. Spot and Avoid Phishing Scams

Phishing emails trick you into revealing sensitive data. Stay safe by:

• Checking sender addresses for misspellings (e.g., “support@amaz0n.com”).
• Never clicking suspicious links or downloading unexpected attachments.
• Verifying requests by contacting the company directly—don’t trust email contact info.

5. Secure Your Wi-Fi Network

An unsecured Wi-Fi network is an open door for hackers. Lock it down with:

• Changing the default router login (admin/password is a hacker’s first guess).
• Using WPA3 encryption (or WPA2 if WPA3 isn’t available).
• Hiding your SSID to make your network less visible.

6. Back Up Your Data Consistently

Ransomware can lock your files until you pay. Protect yourself with:

• The 3-2-1 backup rule: 3 copies, 2 storage types (cloud + external drive), 1 offsite.
• Automating backups to Google Drive, Dropbox, or an external hard drive.

7. Limit Personal Info Online

Oversharing on social media makes you a target for identity theft.

• Tighten privacy settings on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
• Never post sensitive details like your address, phone number, or travel plans.

8. Use a VPN on Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi is a hacker’s playground. A VPN encrypts your connection, keeping your data private.

• Pick a no-logs VPN (NordVPN, ProtonVPN).
• Always activate it in cafes, airports, and hotels.

9. Learn Social Engineering Tactics

Hackers manipulate people, not just systems. Recognize common tricks like:

• Pretexting: Fake scenarios (e.g., “IT needs your password”).
• Baiting: Free downloads hiding malware.
• Phishing: Fake “urgent” messages from “your bank.”

10. Monitor Accounts for Suspicious Activity

Early detection prevents major breaches.

• Set up fraud alerts with your bank and credit bureaus.
• Review bank statements and credit reports monthly.

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