When visiting a website for the first time – perhaps via an email link – lookout for the telling signs of phishing. These may involve misspellings and grammatical mistakes on the page, aggressive advertising and particularly unusual and complex URLs. If you see some or all of them, leave the website straightaway.

Because many pop-up windows encountered on the internet are often a product of spyware, clicking on the window could install spyware software on your computer. To close the pop-up window, click on the “X” icon in the title bar instead of a “close” link within the window or restart your computer if necessary.

Remote computer control can be useful when troubleshooting if you need someone else to view what’s on your computer. However, when you share that control they’ll have full access to everything on your computer. Only give control to people you can trust. Also, make sure you’re aware of how to instantly cancel the remote control, […]

Devices such as these only receive security updates for a certain period of time, generally three to five years. Take note of whether your device is still receiving security updates (it may automatically inform you when time expires), and don’t use it beyond its intended lifespan.

Biometrics includes data such as your fingerprint or face, which can be used to unlock your phone or log into apps. These tend to be much faster than typing in a password, and they’re generally secure. On the other hand, biometrics aren’t 100% secure and a stranger may still be able to unlock your phone. […]

Most phones allow you to add apps to them manually, without using traditional stores such as Google Play and the Apple App Store. While these apps may seem useful, there’s no reliable way to tell if they’re completely safe. It’s best to avoid sideloading apps altogether unless you’re completely sure the app is legitimate.