You Don't Need to be a Tech Expert to Stay Safe Online

Criminals who steal one password often try it everywhere else. Give every account its own, using three random words (like "PurpleGardenBiscuit") or a password manager to remember them for you.

Those "update available" notifications aren't just for new features. They often close doors that hackers use to get in. Update as soon as you can, rather than putting it off.

This means a code is sent to your phone as a second check when you log in somewhere new. Even if someone gets hold of your password, they still can't get in without your phone.

Real banks, HMRC, and delivery companies won't rush you, threaten you, or ask for your password by phone or text. If a message creates urgency or fear, that's the warning sign itself. Slow down and check. The National Cyber Security Centre has more real examples if you want to check yours against theirs.

Photos, documents, important messages! Copy them somewhere separate (a cloud service or an external drive) so a lost phone, a virus, or a hack can't take them from you for good.

If you have an older relative, a neighbour, or a friend who's less confident online, a five-minute conversation about what scams look like can matter more than any software.