Home for the Holidays: Providing Tech Support to Family
As the holiday season approaches, tech-savvy individuals often find themselves on call for a different kind of service: tech support for family members. While festive gatherings promise lively conversations and copious amounts of food, they also present an opportunity to assist relatives with their technology troubles. This year, the stakes are higher with the rise of cyber scams powered by generative AI, making it essential to educate as well as troubleshoot.
Staying Updated: The First Line of Defense
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect devices from cybersecurity threats is to keep operating systems and applications up-to-date. Whether your family uses Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android, ensuring that their systems receive regular updates can help guard against malware, viruses, and exploits. Most systems have auto-updates enabled by default, but it’s worth double-checking that there is sufficient storage space for these updates to install smoothly.
Regular updates can also reduce the volume of “Why isn’t this app working?” queries, as they often fix bugs and improve functionality. Encouraging family members to maintain updated devices can save time and frustration in the long run.
Managing Storage: Clearing the Clutter
A common issue many face is running out of storage space, especially on mobile devices. Full storage can hinder the ability to update systems, so freeing up space becomes a priority. Here are a few strategies:
- Utilize Cloud Storage: Encourage iPhone users to offload media like photos and music to iCloud, while Android users can benefit from Google Photos for backing up images.
- Clear Browsing Data: Browsers accumulate caches, cookies, and history over time, consuming significant storage space. Regularly clearing these caches can also improve system performance.
Password Management: A More Secure Approach
With the average person juggling hundreds of passwords, it’s tempting to simplify by reusing them. However, this practice is discouraged by cybersecurity experts. Instead, introduce family members to password managers, which can securely store and organize their login information. These tools not only make life easier but also enhance security.
For the more tech-savvy family members, consider suggesting passkeys as a modern, secure alternative to traditional passwords. This step toward digital authentication can impress and protect simultaneously.
Staying Vigilant Against Scams
Cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated, often leveraging AI to enhance their scams. It’s crucial to educate family members about the latest threats and the importance of vigilance. Alissa Abdullah, Mastercard’s deputy chief security officer, advises using the three S’s: “Stay suspicious, stop for a second (and think about it), and stay protected.”
Awareness of common scams, such as robocalls targeting vulnerable individuals and social media quiz scams, can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim. For more information on current scams and protective measures, refer to the comprehensive AP guide on scams.
Ensuring High-Speed Internet
As home internet speeds increase, it’s worth verifying that family members receive the connectivity they pay for. Conduct a broadband speed test to ensure their network performs optimally, and consider upgrading aging modems or routers if necessary.
Conclusion: A Season of Tech Support and Education
The holiday season is an ideal time to provide tech support while educating family members on cybersecurity best practices. By ensuring their devices are updated, storage is managed, passwords are secure, and scams are recognized, you can help them navigate the digital world more safely and efficiently. As technology continues to evolve, staying informed and prepared remains essential for everyone.
