**1. Get a Password Manager:**

In the age of 2021, using weak passwords like "password" or "12345" is simply unacceptable. Ensure that all your online account passwords are strong and unique. This means they should be long, include various character types, and not be reused across different websites. Your Twitter password should differ from your online banking password, and your home Wi-Fi network credentials should not match your Amazon account. The best way to achieve this is by using a password manager. These tools generate robust passwords and securely store them. Password managers not only enhance your security but also eliminate the need to remember countless passwords. We recommend LastPass or KeePass based on our testing of various password managers.

**2. Learn How to Spot Phishing Attacks:**

Resist the urge to quickly click on links in new emails or text messages. Hackers have taken advantage of the pandemic with phishing attacks and deceptive Google Drive scams. Be cautious, think before you click, and only download files from known and trusted sources. While there's no foolproof method to identify every phishing attempt, raising your awareness of this threat can help mitigate its effectiveness.

**3. Update Everything:**

All your technology, from the apps on your phone to your smart lightbulb's operating system, is susceptible to attacks. Companies continually find and patch vulnerabilities. Therefore, it's essential to regularly update your apps and software. Begin with your phone, making sure your operating system is up to date. Subsequently, move on to your laptops and computers. Keep in mind that every device is vulnerable, even your internet-connected devices.

**4. Encrypt Everything:**

Encryption has become more accessible in recent years. Messaging apps like Signal and WhatsApp offer end-to-end encryption for messages, calls, and videos. Use these services to protect your communications. For emails, consider encrypted providers like ProtonMail. Encrypt the files on your devices to further safeguard your data. iPhone and iOS devices encrypt the hard drive by default, but for laptops or computers, enable encryption via features like Apple's FileVault or BitLocker for Windows.

**5. Wipe Your Digital Footprint:**

Previous online accounts you no longer use can be used against you if compromised. Delete old accounts and login details to minimize your risk of being hacked. Regularly clear your Google search history and explore privacy-focused alternatives to Google. To reduce your digital footprint further, utilize services like "Have I Been Pwned?" to check for previous data breaches, employ a VPN for enhanced browsing privacy, and consider using Tor for heightened online anonymity.

**6. Stay Informed:**

Stay up to date with the latest cybersecurity trends and best practices to protect yourself from evolving threats in the digital landscape."

This revised version provides a concise overview of the six key steps to prevent hacking.

Hope it helped...