Some online accounts allow you to use backup codes to log in if you get locked out or don’t have access to two-factor authentication. For example, this is an option for most Google accounts. Consider taking advantage of it and printing off the codes in case you have trouble logging in.

If you have an old hard drive or USB thumb drive, think twice about throwing it away once you no longer need it. The data that was on it might still be recoverable if it had been technically deleted. Keeping the device in storage is a safer option.

Some PCs and TVs come with security slots that are compatible with certain types of locks, which are good for preventing device theft. They may also support wall or desk mounting. These options may be worth exploring if you’re worried about the physical security of your larger devices.

Using a public computer in a location such as a library comes with some risks, such as forgetting to log out of key accounts or having someone look at your screen in an attempt to steal information. Make sure you log out of everything before leaving a public workstation.

What would you do if your Android device were lost or stolen? The web-based Find My Device (find my android) service makes it relatively straightforward to manage these situations. If you lose your phone you can log into the Google account associated with the device(s) and then locate and remotely wipe all of their data […]

USB thumb drives aren’t quite as ubiquitous as they once were, but they’re still a popular way to store a lot of data on a very small device. That said, you should be careful when using them, especially if they belong to someone else. Thumb drives can carry malware or even electrical pulses that can […]