Digital Safety Checklists

Step-by-step checklists for securing devices and accounts

Device Security Checklist

  • Enable automatic updates High Priority Keep your operating system and apps up to date with the latest security patches
  • Set up screen lock with strong password/PIN High Priority Use at least 6 digits or a complex password to protect device access
  • Enable biometric authentication Medium Priority Use fingerprint or face recognition for added security
  • Install reputable antivirus software High Priority Protect against malware, viruses, and other threats
  • Enable Find My Device feature Medium Priority Locate, lock, or wipe your device if lost or stolen
  • Review and limit app permissions Medium Priority Only grant necessary permissions to apps (camera, location, contacts)
  • Disable Bluetooth when not in use Low Priority Reduce potential security vulnerabilities
  • Set up automatic backup High Priority Protect your data with regular cloud or local backups

Account Security Checklist

  • Create strong, unique passwords High Priority Use at least 12 characters with letters, numbers, and symbols
  • Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) High Priority Add an extra layer of security to all important accounts
  • Use a password manager High Priority Safely store and generate complex passwords
  • Review connected apps and services Medium Priority Remove access for apps you no longer use
  • Update security questions Medium Priority Use answers that aren't easily guessable or publicly available
  • Check account activity regularly Medium Priority Review login history and unusual activity
  • Set up account recovery options High Priority Add backup email and phone number for account recovery
  • Delete unused accounts Low Priority Reduce your digital footprint by removing old accounts

Privacy Settings Checklist

  • Review social media privacy settings High Priority Control who can see your posts, profile, and personal information
  • Disable location tracking High Priority Turn off location services for apps that don't need it
  • Limit ad tracking Medium Priority Opt out of personalized advertising across platforms
  • Review app data sharing Medium Priority Check which apps share data with third parties
  • Disable microphone/camera access High Priority Only allow access when actively using these features
  • Use private browsing mode Low Priority Browse without saving history or cookies
  • Clear cookies and cache regularly Low Priority Remove tracking data from your browser
  • Review email privacy settings Medium Priority Disable email tracking and read receipts

Family Safety Checklist

  • Create family digital agreement High Priority Establish rules and expectations for online behavior
  • Set up parental controls High Priority Configure age-appropriate content filters and time limits
  • Schedule regular family tech talks Medium Priority Have ongoing conversations about online experiences
  • Create tech-free zones Medium Priority Designate areas like bedrooms or dining table as device-free
  • Review children's friend lists High Priority Ensure children only connect with people they know in real life
  • Teach reporting procedures High Priority Make sure children know how to report inappropriate content or behavior
  • Model good digital behavior Medium Priority Demonstrate healthy technology habits for children to follow
  • Keep devices in common areas Low Priority Monitor usage by keeping devices visible
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