Got new electronics for the holidays? Whether you’ve unwrapped a shiny new smartphone, tablet or laptop, the first steps you take can set the tone for your entire experience. 

We’ll walk you through essential steps to ensure your devices are secure, functional and ready for your enjoyment. 

From setting strong passwords to enabling tracking features, these tips will help you make the most of your new gadgets.

GET SECURITY ALERTS, EXPERT TIPS — SIGN UP FOR KURT’S NEWSLETTER — THE CYBERGUY REPORT HERE

Change default passwords and PINs immediately. Use a combination of letters, numbers and special characters. Avoid using easily guessable information like birthdays or names. Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords.

Wherever possible, activate 2FA for added security. This provides an extra layer of protection by requiring a second verification step, such as a text message or authentication app.

Privacy screen protectors can prevent others from viewing your screen from the side, enhancing your privacy when using your device in public spaces.

If your device stores important data (e.g., photos, documents), immediately set up a backup system. This can be done through cloud services or external storage devices to ensure your data is safe.

The best way to ensure that your devices are protected and that no one is snooping around on your data or browsing history is by purchasing antivirus software. To protect yourself from having your data breached, have antivirus protection installed on all your new devices. Having good antivirus software actively running on your new devices will alert you of any malware in your system, warn you against clicking on any malicious links in phishing emails, and ultimately protect you from being hacked. Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

Ignoring updates: Don’t skip software updates when setting up your new device. These updates often include critical security patches and new features. Enable automatic updates wherever possible to ensure your device remains up-to-date.

Overloading with apps: It’s tempting to download every app or tool that catches your eye. However, too many apps can slow your device and increase the risk of downloading malicious software. Stick to trusted sources like the Apple App Store or Google Play.

Forgetting about privacy settings: Take time to review and configure privacy settings on your devices. Disable features like location tracking or data tracking if they’re not necessary for your usage.

Neglecting physical protection: A single drop can ruin your brand-new device. In order to protect and enhance them, it’s important that you have some quality accessories, like a laptop bag or backpack, messenger bag, laptop sleeve, portable hard drive, headphones, webcam cover, attachable portable display, portable laptop stand, Bluetooth mouse, a good power strip and surge protector for your devices. You’ll also want a good phone charger. Check out our picks for these five best portable phone chargers. The last thing you’ll want is a device that dies on you all because you didn’t have a decent charging accessory.

5 BEST PORTABLE PHONE CHARGERS FOR ANY OCCASION

The best step to take if you have received a new laptop, tablet or smartphone, whether it’s an Apple or Android product, is to turn on any ‘Find My’ settings in case your device ever gets lost or stolen. Here are the steps you can take for the following options:

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

Note: If you don’t see Find My, go to System Services in the list of apps, click Details, then turn on Find My Mac.

 Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer.

LOST OR STOLEN PHONE? THERE’S POTENTIAL TROUBLE ASIDE FROM THE COST OF REPLACING A PHONE

Smart TVs are a great device to receive for the holidays. Not only do they give you access to tons of streaming apps, but they also allow you to browse the internet, stream music and videos, and even look at photos. With all these features comes a certain amount of risk regarding targeted ads and malware. While any Smart device can be infected with malware, Smart TVs are usually not the devices that experience this kind of attack. Although it has happened in the past with both Samsung and Apple TVs, those cases are extremely rare. However, before you begin enjoying your favorite movies and TV shows, take these steps to protect your Smart TV:

Disabling ads and tracking on your Smart TV will mostly limit your TV from collecting data on you and the content you’re watching. Here’s how to disable that feature on Samsung, LG and Vizio TVs:

LG

Some models may have different settings or options, so you should always check the user manual or the official website of LG for the most updated information.

Samsung

Some models may have different settings or options, so you should always check the user manual or the official website of Samsung for the most updated information. For example, some models may have Smart Features instead of Support in the Settings menu.

Vizio

Some models may have different settings or options, so you should always check the user manual or the official website of Vizio for the most updated information.

GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE

Most Smart TVs do not come with built-in microphones and cameras, but there is a way to turn off those features for the brands that do.

Samsung

Some models may have different settings or options, so you should always check the user manual or the official website of Samsung for the most updated information. For example, Some models may have Smart Features instead of Support in the Settings menu. Some models may have Voice Recognition instead of Voice Recognition Services in the Terms & Policies menu.

LG

Other Smart TV brands may come with external cameras. Make sure they are unplugged whenever you are not using them.

TOP 10 SOUNDBARS TO ENHANCE YOUR TV AUDIO EXPERIENCE

If you have old devices that you don’t need, you can sell them or recycle them. Some services will pay you even if your devices are not working. To get the best deal for your devices, you need to choose the right service. Here are some services that you can use:

Amazon Trade-In: If you’re a big Amazon shopper, it might be worth it to try trading in your old device with their trade-in company. You can swap your device in exchange for an Amazon gift card, and they accept even non-functional items. This is a convenient way to get rid of your unwanted electronics and get some credit for your future purchases on Amazon. You can also check the trade-in value of your device before sending it in. Before you do get rid of your old device, be sure to follow these steps: How to securely get rid of your old PC or Mac.

More: How to securely get rid of your old cellphone.

As you dive into setting up your new electronics, remember that taking a few moments to secure and personalize them can save you a lot of headaches down the line. By following these initial steps, you’re not just protecting your investment; you’re also enhancing your overall experience.

Have you encountered any challenges while setting up your new devices? How did you overcome them? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.

Follow Kurt on his social channels:

Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:

New from Kurt:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.