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Freedom251 › Blog › cybersecurity

How to Stay Safe Online: Essential Steps for Your Accounts and Devices

By Freedom251 Team · · 3 min read

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To stay safer online, take four practical steps: recognize and report phishing, use a different strong password for every account, turn on multifactor authentication (MFA), and install software updates promptly. These habits reduce common risks but cannot eliminate every threat. CISA’s Secure Our World campaign centers its consumer guidance on these actions.

How can you recognize and handle phishing?

Be cautious when an unexpected message creates urgency, uses alarming language, or offers something that seems too good to be true. These are warning signs, not a complete test: suspicious messages do not all look alike. A phishing message may try to persuade you to download a harmful attachment or disclose personal information.

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  1. Do not click links, open unexpected attachments, or reply to the message.
  2. Use the service’s reporting option if one is available.
  3. Delete the message.

These steps follow CISA’s phishing guidance. If a message claims to be from a bank, government office, or other service, go to that organization through its usual app or website instead of using the message’s link.

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How should you create and manage passwords?

Use a separate password for every account. CISA recommends passwords that are at least 16 characters long, random, and unique. Reusing a password means that if one account is compromised, the same credentials may put other accounts at risk.

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A password manager can generate and store distinct passwords, so you do not have to memorize each one. It is an optional tool for putting the recommendation into practice, not a prerequisite. CISA’s strong-password guidance recommends using one.

How do you turn on multifactor authentication?

MFA adds a verification step beyond your password. If someone gets your password but cannot complete that extra step, MFA can help block access; it does not make an account invulnerable.

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  1. Open the account or profile settings for the service.
  2. Look for a section labeled Security, Password and Security, or something similar. Names and locations vary by provider.
  3. Choose the MFA or two-step verification setting, then follow the provider’s setup instructions.
  4. Enable it first on important accounts, especially email, banking, healthcare, shopping, and social accounts.

Depending on the service, available methods may include codes sent by text or email, an authenticator app, or biometrics. The options differ by provider, and these examples do not establish that one method is best in every situation. Review the service’s recovery instructions as part of setup. See CISA’s MFA guidance.

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Why should you install software updates promptly?

Software flaws can expose files or accounts. Install updates when they become available rather than putting them off. CISA’s Secure Our World guidance says, “Don’t delay software updates.”

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  • 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
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  • 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

Where your device or software offers automatic updates, enabling them can reduce the chance that you forget to install a fix. The setting and availability vary by device and app; follow the update instructions for the product you use. CISA explains the recommendation in its software update guidance.

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What else can protect your device and personal information?

Lock devices you carry

Set a screen lock, such as a passcode, fingerprint, or face unlock where available. A lock helps protect information if a phone, tablet, or computer is lost or stolen.

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  • POWERFUL SECURITY KEY: The Security Key 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 NFC secures 100 of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more.
  • FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your Security Key NFC via USB-A 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.

Review what you share

Check privacy and security defaults on social networks and other services, and be thoughtful about personal details you post. Information shared publicly can help scammers steal identities, access data, or commit other crimes. These device and privacy recommendations appear in CISA’s guidance for older adults; they are useful considerations for anyone who uses connected devices or social media.

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  • 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.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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