Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Secure your email by enabling the strongest multifactor authentication (MFA) your provider supports, confirming recovery options, and checking who or what can access, forward, or download your messages. These five checks work as a practical checklist—not a universal set of switches. Menu names vary by service; Gmail paths below are examples.
1. Turn on the strongest multifactor authentication available
MFA adds a second proof of identity to your password. Enable it in your provider’s account security settings; Gmail calls its feature 2-Step Verification. CISA advises that “Any MFA is better than none.” When your provider supports it, choose a phishing-resistant FIDO/WebAuthn sign-in method, such as a compatible security key. CISA identifies FIDO/WebAuthn as the only widely available phishing-resistant authentication method in its consumer guidance. CISA: More than a Password
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If that option is unavailable, use the strongest supported alternative. CISA’s business guidance ranks security keys highest, followed by number-matching authenticator prompts, time-based authenticator codes, biometrics, and text or email codes. Biometric sign-in is generally device-specific and is best combined with another method. SMS and email codes can still be preferable to password-only sign-in, but they are not as resistant to phishing as FIDO/WebAuthn. Availability and labels depend on the provider and account. CISA: Require Multifactor Authentication
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2. Check your recovery email and phone
Make sure the recovery email address and phone number on the account are current, accessible to you, and not controlled by someone else. A stale or unfamiliar recovery method can complicate regaining access or point to a change you did not make. Recovery details help with account recovery; they do not guarantee it.
#1 Best Overall
- POWERFUL SECURITY KEY: The YubiKey 5C NFC is the most versatile physical passkey, protecting your digital life from phishing attacks. It ensures only you can access your accounts
- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with popular accounts like Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single YubiKey 5C NFC secures 100+ of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your YubiKey 5C NFC via USB and tap it, or tap it against your phone (NFC), to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required
- MOST SECURE PASSKEY: Supports FIDO2/WebAuthn, FIDO U2F, Yubico OTP, OATH-TOTP/HOTP, Smart card (PIV), and OpenPGP. That means it’s versatile, working almost anywhere you need it
- PRIMARY & SPARE KEYS: Just like having a spare house key, we recommend buying two YubiKeys - one for daily use and one as a spare. That way you’ll never get locked out of your accounts
For a Google account, open Google Security Checkup and follow its personalized recommendations. Google describes the tool as a step-by-step way to review security settings, including recovery options, sign-in verification, and account permissions. Google Safety Center: Security Settings and Tools
3. Review delegates, connected apps, and active access
Look for people or apps that can read, send, or otherwise access email. Remove access only after confirming it is not a delegate, client, or integration you intentionally use. For non-Gmail services, check account-security settings for connected apps, delegates, and signed-in sessions.
Rank #2
- POWERFUL SECURITY KEY: The Security Key C NFC is the essential physical passkey for protecting your digital life from phishing attacks. It ensures only you can access your accounts.
- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single Security Key C NFC secures 100 of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more.
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your Security Key C NFC via USB-C and tap it, or tap it against your phone (NFC) to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required.
- TRUSTED PASSKEY TECHNOLOGY: Uses the latest passkey standards (FIDO2/WebAuthn & FIDO U2F) but does not support One-Time Passwords. For complex needs, check out the YubiKey 5 Series.
- BUILT TO LAST: Made from tough, waterproof, and crush-resistant materials. Manufactured in Sweden and programmed in the USA with the highest security standards.
In Gmail on a computer, open Settings (gear icon), choose See all settings, then review the Accounts and Import tab. Check Grant access to your account, Send mail as, and any listed POP accounts. Google advises confirming that the addresses or people listed belong there. Google Gmail Help: Gmail security tips — Computer
4. Inspect forwarding rules and filters
Check whether a forwarding address or filter is quietly sending messages elsewhere or deleting them. Google’s Gmail guidance says, “Check to make sure that your messages aren’t being forwarded to an unknown account.” In Gmail, review forwarding under Settings → See all settings → Forwarding and POP/IMAP. Then open Filters and Blocked Addresses and inspect rules that forward or automatically delete messages. Remove only entries you cannot account for; legitimate rules may support your usual workflow. Other providers may place forwarding and rules in different menus. Google Gmail Help: Gmail security tips — Computer
Rank #3
- POWERFUL SECURITY KEY: The YubiKey 5 NFC is the most versatile physical passkey, protecting your digital life from phishing attacks. It ensures only you can access your accounts
- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with popular accounts like Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single YubiKey 5 NFC secures 100+ of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your YubiKey 5 NFC via USB and tap it, or tap it against your phone (NFC), to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required
- MOST SECURE PASSKEY: Supports FIDO2/WebAuthn, FIDO U2F, Yubico OTP, OATH-TOTP/HOTP, Smart card (PIV), and OpenPGP. That means it’s versatile, working almost anywhere you need it
- PRIMARY & SPARE KEYS: Just like having a spare house key, we recommend buying two YubiKeys - one for daily use and one as a spare. That way you’ll never get locked out of your accounts
5. Review POP, IMAP, and mail-client access
POP and IMAP let mail programs access messages. Check whether they are enabled and whether the listed accounts or clients are yours. In Gmail, the Forwarding and POP/IMAP tab shows the relevant settings, and Accounts and Import can show POP accounts. Turn off or remove access that is unfamiliar or no longer needed, but do not disable a protocol you rely on for a desktop client, accessibility tool, or other mail workflow. Google recommends confirming that POP/IMAP settings are correct and listed POP accounts belong to you. Google Gmail Help: Gmail security tips — Computer
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What these checks can—and cannot—do
These account settings help reduce the chance that someone can sign in, retain access, or redirect messages without your knowledge. They cannot guarantee an account will never be compromised, and providers do not all expose the same controls. Google also recommends checking signatures and vacation responders for unexpected changes, which may indicate account misuse. Google Gmail Help: Gmail security tips — Computer
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Ultra-Compact FIDO2 Security Key - Plug-and-stay or carry on a keychain. This USB-A hardware security key offers portable, always-on protection for desktop and mobile use. (Item Size: 0.75 X 0.74 IN x 0.25 IN)
- USB-A Hardware Key for All Devices - Works with USB-A ports on PC, Mac, Android, and other laptop/notebook device. Enables secure, cross-platform login with FIDO2.0 passkey support.
- FIDO Certified Security Key - Meets FIDO and FIDO2 standards. Works with Google, Microsoft, GitHub, Dropbox, and more. Please check service compatibility before purchase.
- Passwordless Login with Passkey - Supports passkey login via WebAuthn and CTAP2. Enjoy password-free sign-ins where supported. Not all websites or services currently support passkeys.
- Advanced Multi-Factor Authentication - Offers 200 FIDO2 passkey slots and 50 OATH-TOTP slots. Strong, flexible 2FA/MFA support across various apps and authentication platforms.
Rank #4
- FIDO2 & Passkey Ready: Business-ready and FIDO2 L1 certified. This key is supported by major management suites and is ideal for both individual and enterprise deployment. Works seamlessly with Gmail, Facebook, GitHub, Dropbox, Coinbase, and more.
- Universal Connectivity (USB-A ): Features a built-in USB-A connector—simply unfold the key and plug it into your compatible PC or laptop for seamless authentication on the go.
- Dedicated Manager App: Use the Thetis Manager App for the initial hardware PIN setup. Setting the PIN on the device first ensures a smooth registration process. Once the PIN is configured, you can begin registering the key across your favorite FIDO2-compatible online services.
- Ultra-Durable & Portable: Featuring a rotating metal cover, this key is water, crush, and tamper-resistant. It fits easily on a keychain and requires no batteries or network connectivity.
- Check FIDO2 compatibility before purchase - Known limitations: ID Austria is not supported (requires FIDO2 Level 2). Windows Hello login only works with Windows Enterprise editions that support Entra ID, and NFC is NOT supported.
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