Most of us make occasional tech mistakes, like reusing the same password, or putting off an important software update. These slip-ups are common, and don’t seem like a big deal. But over time, even small mistakes can lead to security issues, lost work, and a lot of frustration.
The good news? These are easy habits to fix. Below are 5 Tech Mistakes We All Make, And How to Avoid Them:
1. Reusing the Same Password
It’s tempting to stick with one “go-to” password for everything. It’s easy to remember and makes logging in faster. But one password should not rule them all.
Why it matters: If your password is exposed in a data breach, cybercriminals can try that same password on your other accounts. This could include your email, bank, cloud storage, or anything else you use regularly.
How to avoid it: Use a password manager. These tools generate strong, unique passwords for every account and store them securely, so you only need to remember one master password. It’s a simple way to protect yourself without the headache of remembering dozens of logins. There are a lot of password managers out there, but here are a few trusted ones we recommend: 1password, Dashlane, and Keeper.
2. Skipping Software Updates
We’ve all hit “Remind me later” on a software update. If everything’s working fine, updates can feel like low priority.
Why it matters: Many updates aren’t just cosmetic. They patch security vulnerabilities and improve system stability. Delaying them means your device could be exposed to known threats.
How to avoid it: Enable automatic updates whenever possible. For programs that don’t update automatically, set a reminder to check for updates on a regular basis (at least twice a month). It only takes a few minutes, but it keeps you and your devices protected.
3. Forgetting to Restart Your Devices
Just like us, computers need a break. Leaving your computer running for weeks without a restart might seem efficient, especially if you just close the lid at the end of the day. But over time, performance tends to suffer.
Why it matters: Restarting helps clear temporary memory, finalize updates, and reset background processes that might be slowing your system down. It’s one of the easiest ways to fix random glitches and performance issues.
How to avoid it: Try restarting your devices at least once a week. This small habit can keep things running smoothly and extend the life of your hardware.
4. Walking Away Without Locking Your Computer
At home, it’s easy to leave your computer open while you grab coffee. But in a shared workspace or when using public Wi-Fi or a public computer, that same habit is risky.
Why it matters: If someone else gets access to your unlocked computer, they can read emails, access sensitive files, or even change your account credentials. In work environments, especially in healthcare or finance, this can lead to serious compliance issues.
How to avoid it: Always log out when using shared or public devices. In the office, lock your screen before stepping away. On most devices, you can also set up an automatic lock after a short period of inactivity, just in case. Better safe than sorry!
5. Using Work Devices for Personal Use
It’s convenient to check personal email, shop online, or stream music from your work laptop, especially when you’re working from home. But this mix of personal and professional can lead to problems.
Why it matters: Personal sites and downloads are more likely to introduce malware or unapproved software. If your device is compromised, it could put sensitive business or client data at risk. And let’s be honest, some online searches are better suited for a personal device.
How to avoid it: Stick to work-related tasks on your company’s devices. Use your phone, tablet, or personal computer for everything else. Keeping that separation helps protect both your company’s data and your own privacy.
These tech mistakes are easy to make, but they’re also easy to fix. A few small changes to your daily habits can make a big difference in protecting your devices, your data, and your peace of mind. If you’ve made one (or all) of these mistakes before, you’re not alone. But now you know how to avoid them, and that’s what matters most.
We’re here to help when you’re ready to learn more ways to protect your data!
Stay safe, Stay Securus!
