New year, new habits. It's that time of the year again when we make a list of things to stop and start doing. And if you're someone who has fully embraced the digital age, make sure to include these 7 New Year's resolutions to ensure that your online life stays secure and clutter-free.
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Stop using the same password for all your online accounts
Hacking is a reality we have to accept in this increasingly online world. Almost every week, we get news about major websites getting hacked, thus exposing its users' private information. This being said, it's about time you stop using the same password for all your online accounts. Creating different passwords for each of your online account may not be a full-proof shield against hackers, but at least you won't panic like a maniac when one on of your accounts gets hacked.
If you have a bad memory, using a password manager app like 1Password (iOS | Android | Windows) makes things easier. It stores all your passwords securely and helps you create strong, unique passwords for each of your online account.
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Enable two-step authentication
Add an extra layer of protection to your online accounts by enabling two-step authentication/log-in verification. Why do you have to do it? It prevents unauthorized devices from logging in to your online accounts. In case someone gets hold of your password, that person won't be able to hack into your account immediately without a verification code.
To set-up your log-in verification for Gmail, Yahoo! Mail, Facebook and Twitter, follow this guide.
For Dropbox, set-up two-step verification here.
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Update your software/apps regularly
App updates are there for a reason. It ensures that your apps are working properly by getting rid of bugs and adding new features. So stop ignoring those app update notifications like the plague. If you're too lazy busy to manually update your apps, enable automatic app updates on your phone.
For iPhone:
Settings → iTunes & App Store → Under 'Automatic downloads', turn on 'Updates'
For Android:
Open Google Play → Tap the hamburger icon (three horizontal line on the top left) → Settings → Tap 'auto-update apps'
For Windows Phone:
Open Store → Settings → App Updates → Turn on 'update apps automatically'
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Back up your files
It's already 2015. By now, you should already know how to store your files in the cloud. Aside from allowing you to access your files anywhere, it also lets you save space on your device.
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Clean your devices regularly
Picture this: millions of germs residing in your devices + you tinkering with your smartphone while eating chips (and licking your fingers). Yuck.
Disinfect regularly. You are after all, an adult already.
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Declutter your desktop
Give your eyes a break this 2015. Clean up your desktop and organize your files in folders. This will not only make your life clutter-free, but it will also save you time in trying to find a particular file.
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Achieve Inbox Zero
This is probably the hardest one on the list, but we promise you, that rewarding and victorious feeling you'll get when you've finally read and/or responded to all your emails is worth it.
