Safeguard your devices

• Install anti-virus software, firewall protection and security patches and keep them up-to-date to help keep your devices secure from infections and intrusions. The National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA) has published a list of free security checks that are available to analyze your devices for viruses and spyware.

• Avoid keeping financial and personal data on your devices unless necessary. Don’t use services that save your username and password, and always log off accounts when you’re finished. That way, if your device is stolen, the thief is less likely to be able to access your accounts.

• Before you dispose of a computer, use software designed to erase personal information permanently from the hard drive – or physically destroy it. For mobile devices, check the owner’s manual for instructions on deleting personal data or transferring that information to your new device.