Top tips for protecting your gadgets from cyber threats

Ilaya Teejay

09 Apr 2025 • 9 min read

You’re scrolling through the internet on a peaceful Saturday evening when you get a text from your bank. You are silently hoping it’s a credit alert, but to your dismay, it is a notification saying your account has been accessed from an unfamiliar location.

Your heart skips a beat. Was it a hacker? Did you click on something you shouldn’t have?

Unfortunately, this isn’t a rare occurrence. This is my story, which happened in May 2024.

With each new gadget we buy and every app we install, we’re opening doors for cyber threats to sneak in. While we might think, "It’ll never happen to me," cybercriminals are getting smarter, and it can in fact, happen to you.

Securing your devices doesn’t have to be complicated. This article covers some of the ways you can do that. Let’s dive in!

Why is securing gadgets against cyber threats so important?

Think about all the sensitive info you store on your devices: credit card details, login credentials, and personal documents.

If your device gets hacked, that information could be exposed. This can lead to data breaches where cybercriminals steal your details and sell them, or even worse, identity theft, where someone pretends to be you.

If you're an individual, cyber-attacks can cause stress, financial loss and damage your reputation. For businesses, these attacks can mean lost customers, legal trouble, and even bankruptcy.

Common cyber threats targeting gadgets

Now that we know why security matters, let’s talk about the actual threats we face on a daily basis.

Malware

Malware is any software designed to cause harm. It could come in the form of a virus, spyware, or adware. You might accidentally download it by opening a suspicious link or attachment. Once it’s on your device, it can do anything from stealing personal information to completely messing up your system.

Tip: Always be cautious about what you download and make sure you have antivirus software to catch any malware before it can do real damage.

Phishing attacks

Phishing is when hackers pose as someone you trust to steal your personal information. It could be an email pretending to be your bank or a fake website asking for your credit card details.

They look so convincing that even the most cautious people can fall for them. The key is to always double-check the sender and avoid clicking on strange links.

Ransomware

Ransomware is a particularly nasty type of malware. It locks you out of your device or encrypts your files and demands money to unlock it. If you don’t pay, your files could be lost forever.

The rise in ransomware attacks is a real concern because hackers know that many people will pay to get their important data back. That’s why it’s so important to back up your files regularly and avoid suspicious emails or links.

Data theft

Data theft is exactly what it sounds like: when hackers steal your personal information. This could happen through a breach, phishing, or even malware. Once they have your data, they could use it for fraud, identity theft or even sell it to others.

Wi-Fi interception

Ever connected to public Wi-Fi? With data prices off the roof, it is super convenient to just connect. But it is also risky. Hackers can set up fake Wi-Fi networks that look just like the real one. Once you connect, they can spy on your internet activity and steal your personal data.

Best practices to secure your gadgets

Here are a few simple habits you can start now to protect your devices:

Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication (2FA)

We’ve all been told to use strong passwords, but even the best passwords can be cracked by hackers with the right tools. If your password is easy to guess or you use the same one across all your accounts, it becomes much easier for someone to break into your devices.

So what do you do in addition to having a strong password? Enable 2FA.

Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of protection. It’s like having a backup key to your front door. Even if someone manages to guess or steal your password, they won’t be able to access your accounts without the second verification step.

This might mean getting a code on your phone or using an authentication app. It may take a couple of extra seconds, but it’s worth the added security.

Update software regularly

While software updates are commonly known as a way to fix bugs, it is also a way to patch up security holes.

Cybercriminals are always looking for holes to exploit, and software makers know this. That’s why they release updates regularly, often including security fixes to protect you from the latest threats.

Set your devices to update automatically if possible, so you don’t have to worry about missing an important patch.

Install reliable antivirus and anti-malware software

Antivirus and anti-malware software act like your device’s personal bodyguard. They help keep harmful software away by scanning your system for threats.

Whether it’s a virus trying to corrupt your files or malware trying to steal your information, these programs work tirelessly in the background to keep you safe.

There are many great antivirus programs out there, some free, some paid. For desktops, look for well-known brands like Norton, Bitdefender, or Kaspersky. For mobile devices, apps like Avast or McAfee can provide solid protection.

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Tip: Choose a software that is trusted and well-reviewed so you know it’s doing its job. And remember to keep it updated, too, because new threats are popping up all the time.

Enable device encryption

Encryption is a way to scramble your data so that only people with the right key can read it. If your phone or laptop gets lost or stolen, the thief won’t be able to access your personal files without that key.

Most modern devices have encryption built in, but it’s a good idea to double-check that it’s turned on. For phones, enabling encryption is usually as simple as setting a strong password. For computers, you may need to enable full disk encryption through your operating system’s settings.

Use VPNs for safe internet browsing

Public Wi-Fi may be convenient, but it’s also a hacker’s playground. When you connect to public networks, like the ones in cafes, it’s much easier for cybercriminals to spy on your activity. That’s where a VPN (Virtual Private Network) comes in.

A VPN creates a private, secure connection between your device and the internet. It encrypts your internet traffic, so even if someone tries to intercept it, all they’ll see is scrambled data.

There are many VPN services out there, like ExpressVPN or NordVPN. Look for one that offers a fast, secure connection and is easy to use.

Be cautious with app permissions

When you download apps, they often ask for access to things like your contacts, location, camera, or microphone. While some of these permissions are necessary for the app to work, others might not be. For example, why would a simple flashlight app need access to your location?

Go into your device’s settings and review what each app can access. If an app doesn’t need access to something, feel free to turn off that permission. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference in protecting your privacy.

Signs that your gadget has been hacked

What if your gadget has been hacked? How do you know?

Unusual behavior

Your device suddenly starts acting weird. Apps crash unexpectedly, or your phone feels slower than usual. You might even notice apps opening or closing without you doing anything.

Unfamiliar apps or files

You see apps or files on your device that you didn’t install or download. Hackers might plant them to spy on you or control your device.

Battery drains faster than usual

A sudden increase in battery consumption could indicate malicious software running in the background.

Strange messages or calls

If your contacts are receiving strange texts, emails, or calls from your device that you didn’t send, it could be a sign of a hack.

Pop-up ads

If you’re seeing ads that seem to pop up randomly or that you can’t close, it could mean your device has been infected with adware or malware.

What to do if your gadget is hacked

If you suspect your device has been compromised, here are the immediate steps you need to take to protect your information:

Disconnect from the Internet

The first thing you should do is disconnect your device from the internet. This stops the hacker from continuing to access your device remotely and prevents any further data from being stolen. Turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and if possible, turn on Airplane Mode. This isolates your device from the network.

Change your passwords

Hackers steal passwords to gain access to your accounts. As soon as you’re disconnected from the internet, change the passwords for any accounts you think might be compromised. This includes your email, banking apps, social media, and any other services you use. Make sure you create strong, unique passwords that are different from the ones you were using before.

Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)

If you haven’t already, set up two-factor authentication (2FA) on all your accounts. This adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a second form of identification (like a code sent to your phone) to access your account. This can help prevent further unauthorized access.

Contact authorities

If you’ve lost money, your identity has been stolen, or sensitive data is at risk, you should contact the relevant authorities immediately. This might include:

Your bank or credit card company (if financial info has been compromised)
The police (for serious cases like identity theft)
A cybersecurity professional (if you need help with the technical side of things)

How to recover compromised data

Once you’ve taken immediate action, the next step is recovering your data. Here's how you can handle that:

Restore from backups

If you’ve been backing up your data (and you should), restoring your files from a backup can be the quickest way to recover them. Whether it’s through cloud services like Google Drive, iCloud, or external hard drives, backups are lifesavers when your device gets compromised.

Use antivirus software

Run a thorough scan with a trusted antivirus or anti-malware software. This will help remove any malicious software that the hacker might have installed. Some tools can even help recover data from damaged or corrupted files.

Seek professional help

If you don’t feel comfortable dealing with the recovery process yourself, consider reaching out to a professional. They can help recover lost files, remove any malware, and ensure that your device is secure again.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How can I secure my gadget from hackers?

Start with the basics:

Use strong, unique passwords.
Enable two-factor authentication on your apps and accounts.
Keep your software up to date.
Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading strange files.
Install trusted antivirus or security apps.

2. How can cyber threats be prevented?

You can’t stop cyber threats from existing, but you can reduce your chances of being a victim. Here’s how:

Stay updated: Always install the latest software updates.
Be cautious online: Don’t share personal details with strangers or fall for “too good to be true” offers.
Use secure networks and avoid shady websites.
Back up your data regularly—just in case something goes wrong.

3. What protects your computer from threats?

A good mix of things:

Antivirus software helps catch viruses and malware before they cause damage.
Firewalls block suspicious activity from the internet.
Security updates fix weaknesses that hackers could exploit.
And you, yes, your choices and habits play a big part too.

Your computer can only do so much. You’ve got to meet it halfway.

4. Is it safe to use my gadgets on public Wi-Fi?

Not really. Public Wi-Fi is like a party where anyone can listen in on your conversation.

If you have to use it:

Avoid accessing sensitive accounts like banking apps.
Don’t make online payments.
Use a VPN if you can.

5. What’s the best antivirus software for mobile devices?

There are a few solid options out there:

Bitdefender Mobile Security
Norton Mobile Security
Kaspersky Mobile
Avast Mobile Security

6. How do I know if my gadget has been hacked?

Some signs to watch out for:

Your battery drains unusually fast.
You notice strange apps or files you didn’t install.
You’re getting weird pop-ups or ads.
Friends tell you they’re getting strange messages from you.
Your device suddenly slows down or acts glitchy.

Conclusion

Your gadgets hold your personal memories, private conversations, and even access to your finances. That’s why securing them against cyber threats isn’t just a “tech thing.” It’s a life thing.

And if something ever goes wrong? Don’t panic. Just take action quickly and follow the steps we’ve shared.

At gamp, we understand how important your devices are. That’s why, beyond providing you with the best gadgets, we offer solutions designed to help protect your tech from cyber threats.

Whether it’s ensuring your devices are secure or providing expert guidance, we’ve got you covered. Let us help you keep your gadgets and your data safe. Visit getgamp.com to get started.