Since Spring sprung on March 20, Texas has had some crazy weather! This whole week has been cold, like coat and scarf type of cold! (#onlyinTexas) Nevertheless, it’s time for some Spring cleaning. I’ve already gone through my whole house and donated or trashed things that I haven’t used in years, so I feel like I’m ahead of the game. Next, I’m dedicating some time to sprucing up my digital security. Here’s my checklist:

✔Delete unused accounts: Cybercrimnals can piece together important information about you for any online profiles, and dormant online accounts, like MySpace, Friendster, AOL, etc. gives these criminals an easy way in.

✔Update anti-virus software: Please know that anti-virus software does expire and your computer may be running unprotected. Consider adding free anti-malware software, too, which will help catch threats your anti-virus software may miss.

✔Change passwords: Use an illogical combination of symbols, numbers and capital/lower case letters. Trouble remembering your passwords? Consider using password management software or store them on a jump drive and store the jump drive in a fire-proof safe in your home.

✔Install firmware updates: Look for firmware updates for your phone, tablet, printer, router, network-attached storage devices, etc. because these updates often have security software fixes. You have to take the initiative on this one. Device manufacturers typically do not send firmware update reminders, so it’s your responsibility to find these updates and download them.

✔Uninstall Apps: Take the time to uninstall apps that weren’t downloaded from the official Google Play or Apple store. Consider downloading a mobile security app and activate a remote lock-and-wipe feature.

✔Update Wi-Fi security: Update passwords, change or hide service set identification (SSID) and make sure it has all updates installed.

✔Deep clean PC: Consider downloading the free Microsoft Windows Defender Offline and put it on a jump drive. Insert the jump drive and restart your computer so that your computer boots from Windows Defender Offline. This will allow you to go deep into your system and find dangerous malware that’s hiding from anti-virus software.