8 simple tips to protect your family from cybercrime

We live so much of our lives online, from banking and shopping to school and work. While the internet makes life easier, it also opens the door to cybercrime. But don’t worry. You don’t need to be a tech whiz to stay safe. We’ve got simple, practical tips for families to help keep your personal information protected. Ahead, we lay out some practical tips to prevent would-be hackers from getting your personal information. 

1. Use strong, unique passwords

The easiest way to protect against hackers? Start with your passwords. Use a different one for each account, with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using easy-to-guess info like names, birthdays, or pet names. Instead, think of a phrase and swap out characters to make it even stronger (e.g., "Myd0gL0ves2Run!"). A password manager can help you keep track of it all securely.

2. Enable two-factor authentication

#1 family finance and safety app

#1 family finance and safety app

Teach your kids and teens to earn, save, and invest with Greenlight.

Use code GLBLOG for one month, on us.*

Try Greenlight today

Many apps and websites offer two-factor authentication (2FA), which adds a second layer of security beyond just a password. Once it’s turned on, you’ll usually receive a code on your phone or email that you must enter before logging in. This extra step helps keep out unwanted guests, even if your password gets leaked.

3. Update software regularly

Hackers often exploit bugs in outdated software. That’s why it’s crucial to keep your devices, operating systems, browsers, and apps updated. These updates often include patches that fix known security vulnerabilities. Set your devices to update automatically, so you never miss an important fix.

4. Teach kids about online safety

Kids are curious, and that’s a good thing. But they also need guidance on how to stay safe online. Talk to them about not sharing personal info, avoiding strangers in chats, and how to recognize suspicious emails or messages. Make these conversations part of your digital routine, and encourage them to come to you if something feels off.

5. Watch out for phishing scams

Phishing scams try to trick you into giving away personal info like passwords or account numbers. These often come as emails or texts that look like they’re from a trusted company or even a friend. Look for red flags: poor spelling, urgent language, or unfamiliar links. When in doubt, go directly to the source by opening a new browser window and typing the website address yourself.

6. Use secure Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi can be a playground for cybercriminals. Hackers can intercept your data on unsecured networks, so avoid logging into sensitive accounts (like banking or healthcare) in coffee shops or airports. At home, protect your Wi-Fi with a strong password and consider setting up a guest network for visitors to keep your main network more secure.

7. Set up parental controls

Parental controls help you shape your child’s online experience. Most devices let you block specific sites, set screen time limits, and monitor activity. Some routers even allow you to pause internet access or restrict use during certain hours. This helps create boundaries and adds an extra layer of defense against inappropriate or harmful content.

8. Back up your data

If something goes wrong, like a ransomware attack or device failure, having a backup ensures you won't lose everything. Regularly back up important files to an external hard drive or a trusted cloud service. Make it part of your monthly digital hygiene routine.

Greenlight helps you stay one step ahead

With Greenlight Family Shield, your family gets powerful protection right inside the Greenlight app:

• Identity theft coverage: Every family member is covered up to $1 million if someone steals their identity (e.g., fraudulent loans, credit card activity, or unemployment claims).*

• Deceptive transfer fraud coverage: If a scammer tricks someone into transferring funds (posing as a trusted person or business), losses up to $100,000 are eligible for reimbursement (after a $1,000 deductible), as long as external monitoring is enabled.*

• Financial account monitoring and alerts: Link checking, savings, investing, and credit accounts (including senior family members’) to receive instant alerts about suspicious activity like big transfers, low balances, or overdrafts.

• Credit, identity, and dark web monitoring: Automatic Experian alerts and dark web scans help detect if your family's information is at risk.**

The all-in-one money and safety app. Care for your kids and senior loved ones in one place with Greenlight Family Shield. Try Greenlight Family Shield today risk-free.† 

This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.

* Insurance offered by Acrisure, LLC is provided by ACE American Insurance Company and its U.S.-based Chubb underwriting company affiliates. www.chubb.com. Additional details can be viewed here. See link for policy information. Insurance Products are not insured by the FDIC or any federal government agency and are not a deposit or other obligation of, or guaranteed by, any bank or bank affiliate.

**Premium monitoring services are offered by Experian.