Technology, defined in plain English

Small pieces of information that websites ask your browser to store. Cookies can help keep you signed in or remember preferences. Some are also used to track activity for analytics or advertising.

Cybersecurity

A data breach happens when information is accessed or exposed without permission.

Cybersecurity

Your digital footprint is the information left behind by your activities online.

Cybersecurity

A way of scrambling information so people without the correct key cannot easily read it. It helps protect messages, payments and stored files. Encryption does not guarantee that every website or message is trustworthy.

Cybersecurity

A firewall helps control which network connections are allowed into or out of a device or network.

Cybersecurity

Harmful software designed to interfere with a device, steal information or cause damage. It can arrive through unsafe downloads, infected attachments or other weaknesses. Keeping software updated helps reduce risk.

Cybersecurity

Multi-factor authentication, or MFA, is an extra security measure that helps protect your online accounts. Imagine your front door has both a key and a separate security code. Someone who steals your key may still be unable to enter because they don't know the code. MFA works in a similar way. When signing in to an account, you may need to enter your password and then complete another check, such as approving a request on your phone or using your fingerprint. This makes it harder for someone to access your account using a stolen password.

Cybersecurity

A passkey lets you sign in using your device, often with a fingerprint, face scan, or screen lock, instead of typing a password.

Cybersecurity

A tool that helps you create, save and fill in strong passwords. Instead of remembering a different password for every account, you protect the manager with a strong main password or another secure sign-in method.

Cybersecurity

Information that identifies you or can be connected to you, such as your name, email address, phone number or certain online identifiers. Think carefully before sharing it and check why a service needs it.

Cybersecurity

A trick where someone pretends to be a trusted person or organization to get your passwords, money or private information. Phishing often arrives by email or text. Do not use suspicious links; contact the organization through a trusted channel.

Cybersecurity

Controls that let you choose how an app or service uses or shares some of your information. They may determine who sees your posts, whether an app uses your location or which notifications you receive. Review them occasionally.

Cybersecurity

Noticing warning signs that someone may be trying to trick you into giving away money or information. Look for pressure, secrecy, unusual payment requests and messages that pretend to be urgent. If unsure, verify independently.

Cybersecurity

Two-factor authentication adds a second check when you sign in, such as a code or security key.

Cybersecurity

A VPN creates an encrypted connection between your device and a VPN server. It can help protect traffic on untrusted networks.

Cybersecurity