Just like brushing your teeth keeps you healthy, good cyber hygiene keeps your digital life safe. It’s all about developing regular online safety habits so you’re less vulnerable to hackers, scams, and data loss.
Here’s a 10-step cyber hygiene checklist you can follow — and yes, you can even print it out and keep it near your desk.
Related: Safe Browsing Tips | Protect Yourself Online
1. Keep Software Updated
Always install updates for your operating system, apps, and security tools. Updates patch vulnerabilities before attackers can exploit them.
2. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Avoid reusing passwords. Use a password manager like Bitwarden or LastPass to create and store complex passwords.
Related: Best Free Cybersecurity Tools for Beginners
3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Add an extra layer of protection to your accounts with 2FA apps like Google Authenticator or Authy.
4. Run Regular Antivirus Scans
Set your antivirus software to run automatic scans weekly. Don’t just rely on real-time protection.
Related: Viruses, Malware, Spyware | What’s the Difference?
5. Back Up Your Data
Use both cloud backups (Google Drive, Dropbox) and offline backups (external hard drive) for important files.
6. Be Cautious with Email Links
Don’t click on suspicious links or open unexpected attachments. When in doubt, verify with the sender first.
Related: What is Phishing? | Avoid Online Scams Easily
7. Use a VPN on Public Wi-Fi
VPNs encrypt your data so it can’t be intercepted on insecure networks like airport or café Wi-Fi.
8. Check Website Security (HTTPS)
Before entering sensitive information, make sure the site uses HTTPS and has a secure lock icon in the address bar.
Related: What is Data Encryption? | Locking Your Info with Code
9. Review App Permissions
Check what data your apps can access — especially on mobile. Disable permissions that don’t make sense for the app’s function.
10. Log Out from Shared Devices
Always log out of accounts when using shared or public computers. Never let browsers save your passwords on such devices.
Download Your Printable Cyber Hygiene Checklist
Click here to download the PDF version and keep it as a quick reminder.
Final Tip
Cybersecurity is a habit, not a one-time task. Following this checklist consistently will make you a much harder target for cybercriminals.
