Keep your tech safe from scammers.

Let’s be honest, no one wakes up excited to think about online scams or security settings. Most of us just want our phones to work, our info to stay private, and our day to go smoothly.

The good news? It’s pretty easy to keep your phone, tablet, laptop, or other technology protected.

Keep things updated (yes, really).

You know those update notifications we all love to ignore? Turns out, they matter. A lot.

Updates fix weak spots that scammers look for. So, when your phone or apps say it’s time for an update, it’s worth tapping “install.”

Getting updates quickly is a powerful way to protect yourself. 

Be picky about what you install.

If an app seems weird or you don’t remember installing it, trust that instinct. Stick to downloading apps only from official app stores and take a quick peek at permissions before you add something new.

If a flashlight app wants access to your contacts or location, that’s a red flag. Scammers often use unfamiliar apps to get into your

 phone.

Check for anything unfamiliar.

Every now and then, scroll through your apps and settings.

Does something look unfamiliar? Are you seeing pop‑ups or changes you didn’t make?

If so, log out, uninstall it, and avoid using your phone for sensitive things like banking until it’s checked out or reset.

Make your phone’s built‑in security tools stronger.

Your phone already has great protection tools; you just have to turn them on.

Features like Face ID or fingerprint unlock, stronger passcodes, quick auto‑lock timing, encrypted backups, and “Find My” tracking add layers of protection that help keep scammers out.

Practice smart Wi‑Fi habits.

Public Wi‑Fi is convenient, but it’s not always safe.

Avoid doing anything that could put your information at risk, like shopping or banking, while connected to it.

If you need to, use a trusted VPN for an extra layer of privacy. At home, make sure your Wi‑Fi has a strong, unique password, and consider setting up a guest network for visitors.

Protect your phone number from SIM‑swap scams.

A scammer doesn’t need your phone to take over your number. With a SIM‑swap, they can redirect your calls and texts. That included your security codes.

Call your carrier and ask for a SIM lock or port‑out PIN to prevent someone from transferring your number without permission.

Use screen sharing safely.

Screen sharing can be helpful during customer support calls, but only when you initiate it with a trusted company.

Scammers often try to convince people to install remote‑access apps so they can poke around. Never install screen‑sharing tools because someone called you unexpectedly, and never give anyone access to banking apps or security codes.

If someone asks you to disable security protections or move money, hang up immediately.

Don’t forget your accounts.

Even if your phone itself is safe, your passwords and logins can still put you at risk.

Use unique passwords for every account and turn on multi‑factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible.

👍Pro tip: If someone asks for a one‑time code that was sent to you, don’t share it. A legitimate company will never ask for that.

At the end of the day, staying safe doesn’t mean changing how you use your phone, tablet, or computer. It’s about being a little more aware and building a few smart habits into your routine. Keep things updated, trust your gut when something feels off, and don’t be afraid to slow down if a request feels urgent or strange.