Module 1: Basic Cybersecurity for Personal Computers and Mobile Devices
Introduction
Desktop computers, laptops, smartphones, and tablets have become essential to everyday life. We use them for everything from communicating with business colleagues to surfing the web and running our favorite applications. As our reliance on these technologies increases, so does the opportunity for malicious actors to exploit vulnerabilities in our digital ecosystem and undermine our privacy and security.
In this module, we cover some personal cybersecurity fundamentals to help users assess their cyber risk and improve their security posture. Users will learn simple tips, best practices, and how-tos.
Topics
Module 1 covers the following topics:
- Topic 1.0 – Implement User Account Control to protect your personal computer
- Topic 1.1 – Keep your device’s operating system and applications up to date
- Topic 1.2 – Ensure your OS antivirus and anti-malware protections are active
- Topic 1.3 – Manage application permissions for privacy and security
- Topic 1.4 – Vet technologies before adding them to your network
- Topic 1.5 – Protect the physical security of your digital devices
Topic 1.0 Implement User Account Control to Protect Your Personal Computer
Use a standard user account for day-to-day tasks to make it more difficult for threat actors to steal your data.
Topic 1.1 Keep Your Device’s Operating System and Applications Up to Date
Regularly installed updates can help protect against vulnerabilities in your device’s operating system and applications.
Topic 1.2 Ensure Your OS Antivirus and Anti-Malware Protections are Active
Ensure your device has antivirus and anti-malware protection.
Topic 1.3 Manage Application Permissions for Privacy and Security
Properly managing your app permissions can help decrease the risk of personal information is shared or sold to third parties.
Topic 1.4 Vet Technologies Before Adding Them to Your Network
Evaluate any product or service before adding them to your digital ecosystem to help properly protect your privacy and security.
Topic 1.5 Protect the Physical Security of Your Digital Devices
Enact physical security measures to help better protect your devices.
Project Upskill Glossary
Learn more about the terms and concepts referenced in Project Upskill to help users improve their defense against common cybersecurity threats.