We’ve looked into the future, and the 2026 version of you is a security pro. Here are some ways you can become this new, secure, version of yourself.

• Cut back on your public information: Having public facing content or information on your social media profile can leave you open for scammers. The more of your personal information that is out there, the easier it is for bad actors to retrieve it and cause damage to your accounts or credit score — or even text you pretending to be your boss needing a gift card.
• Sign up for credit monitoring: These services alert users when credit application has been made in your name, alert about large transactions, credit limit increases and changes to personal information. Setting up these alerts can let you know if your data is at risk right away.
• Secure your passwords: Passwords need to be long and complex, with special characters and numbers added. An eight-character password only takes a hacker about 37 seconds to crack, but doubling the characters takes 119 years to unlock. Make sure you aren’t reusing your passwords for multiple accounts, and don’t save your passwords in a browser.
• Stay up to date on software: Keeping your devices up to date not only keeps you satisfied, but it protects you from possible data breeches and vulnerabilities. You can enable automatic updates to patch vulnerabilities quickly.
• Don’t get hooked by a phish: AI has entered the chat when it comes to phishing emails. Always check the sender, and if you are unsure, verify through the official channels before replying or downloading attachments. Users can report their catches with the report phishing button native to Outlook.