Secure accounts
Stage one
- Use your asset register to list all your accounts and devices.
- Install a multi-factor authentication (MFA) app or buy physical tokens to protect your accounts and devices.
- Install a password manager and learn how to use it.
- Add your existing passwords to your password manager.
- Check if your accounts have been compromised using the Have I Been Pwned website.
Keep your data safe with a password manager | Own Your Online External Link
Have I Been Pwned External Link
Stage two
- Start by changing the passwords for your five most important accounts.
- Make sure each password is long, strong, and unique.
- Update your password manager with the new passwords.
- Review your social media accounts and check the privacy and security settings.
- Turn on MFA for any accounts that support it.
Staying safe on social media | Own Your Online External Link
Stage three
- Change another 10 account passwords.
- Make sure your password manager is updated with each new password.
- Change the default administrator name and password on your router.
- Rename your Wi-Fi networks so they don’t reveal details about your location or the type of equipment you’re using.
- Check the privacy and security settings for the apps on your mobile device.
Secure your home network | Own Your Online External Link
Stage four
- Keep changing passwords until every account has a unique, strong password.
- Store each one in your password manager as you go.
- Check that all accounts with MFA options have it turned on.
Secure devices
Stage one
- Set a PIN or password on all your devices.
- Turn on automatic updates for your phone, tablet, laptop, and PC.
- Run a full anti-malware scan and follow any recommended actions.
- Schedule weekly automatic updates and full anti-malware scans.
- Restart your mobile devices daily to help keep them secure.
Stage two
- Make sure your Wi-Fi network is password protected.
- Use a virtual private network (VPN) service to keep your online activity more private and secure.
- Update the password on your laptop.
- If you use Apple devices, turn on Lockdown Mode for extra protection.
- If you use Android devices, check that Google Play Protect is turned on.
About Lockdown Mode | Apple External Link
Use Google Play Protect to help keep your apps safe and your data private | Google External Link
Stage 3
- Set up a guest Wi-Fi network and make sure it’s password protected.
- Check your router for firmware updates and install any available updates.
- Turn on your router’s firewall to help block unwanted traffic.
- Schedule automatic updates for your router (if available).
- When you’re away from home, consider using a USB power bank or a data blocker to protect your devices.
Secure your home network | Own Your Online External Link
Stage 4
- Review your anti-malware scan results and confirm your system is protected.
- Check when your device last installed updates and install any that are available.
- Set a reminder to restart your router once a month to help keep your network running smoothly.