Simple Cybersecurity Resolutions to Protect Yourself in 2026
WASHINGTON, D.C. — As 2025 draws to a close, cybersecurity experts are urging internet users to adopt practical habits to safeguard their digital lives in the coming year. Cybercriminal activity typically surges during the holidays and early in the new year, exploiting vulnerabilities in personal and business accounts. However, staying safe online does not require advanced technical knowledge or costly tools. Instead, a handful of straightforward steps can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to scams, account takeovers, and data theft throughout 2026.
Foremost among these is the use of strong, unique passwords for every account. Cybersecurity specialists emphasize that reusing passwords across multiple sites remains one of the most common security pitfalls. Longer passphrases are recommended over short, complex strings, and password managers can help generate and securely store these credentials. Users can also check if their email addresses or passwords have been compromised in past data breaches by using breach scanners integrated into reputable password management tools. Immediate password changes are advised if any exposure is detected.
Beyond passwords, enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) provides an additional critical layer of defense. Unlike relying solely on a password, 2FA requires a second verification step, often a code generated by an app or a physical security key. Experts note that app-based authenticators offer stronger protection than text message codes, and recommend activating 2FA on all essential accounts such as email, banking, social media, and online shopping platforms.
Another important resolution is to regularly audit one’s digital footprint. Many users accumulate dormant accounts on shopping sites, forums, and subscription services, which can become targets for hackers. Deleting unused accounts and tightening privacy settings on active ones helps limit personal data exposure. Sharing less sensitive information, including birthdays, locations, and phone numbers, further reduces the risk of identity theft and fraud.
Keeping software and devices up to date is a simple yet often overlooked security measure. Software updates patch vulnerabilities that cybercriminals actively exploit, and enabling automatic updates for operating systems, browsers, applications, routers, and smart devices can block many common attacks without requiring user intervention. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) highlights outdated software as a leading cause of successful cyberattacks.
Additionally, users are encouraged to consider personal data removal services to limit the amount of information available to data brokers online. These services help remove personal details from hundreds of websites, reducing the chances of data misuse.
The Federal Trade Commission’s credit freeze option is another valuable tool to prevent unauthorized access to credit reports, which can stop identity thieves from opening new accounts in one’s name. Freezing credit is free, easy to do, and can be lifted temporarily when needed.
Experts also stress the importance of caution when clicking links or downloading attachments, especially from unknown sources, as phishing remains a prevalent attack vector. The Department of Homeland Security offers guidance on recognizing and avoiding phishing scams.
Finally, backing up important data regularly ensures that users can recover their information in case of ransomware attacks or hardware failures. Backups stored offline or in secure cloud services provide peace of mind against data loss.
As cyber threats continue to evolve, adopting these ten simple but effective cybersecurity resolutions can empower individuals to protect their accounts, data, and privacy throughout 2026 and beyond. For more detailed guidance and tools, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and the Federal Trade Commission remain trusted resources for consumers seeking to enhance their digital security.
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