Got a new electronic device for the holiday season? Even after unboxing your shiny new smartphone, tablet, or laptop, the first step sets the tone for the entire experience.
We’ll walk you through important steps to ensure your device is safe, functional, and ready to enjoy.
From setting strong passwords to enabling tracking features, these tips will help you get the most out of your new gadget.
A person opening a new technology gift. (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
What if I get a new laptop, tablet, or smartphone?
Set a strong password and PIN
Please change your default password and PIN immediately. Use a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using information that is easy to guess, such as birthdays or names. Please consider using . password manager Generate and save complex passwords.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)
as far as possible Enable 2FA Enhance security. This provides an additional layer of protection by requiring a second verification step, such as a text message or authenticator app.
Consider a privacy screen protector (for smartphones and laptops)
privacy screen protector Prevent others from viewing your screen from the side, increasing your privacy when using your device in public.
Create a backup system for your photos and documents
If you have important data stored on your device (photos, documents, etc.), set up a backup system now. This can be done by cloud service or external storage device To ensure the safety of your data.
Install powerful antivirus protection on all new devices
It’s the best way to ensure your device is protected and no one can snoop on your data. Browsing history That means purchasing antivirus software. Install antivirus protection on all new devices to protect yourself from data breaches. Having good antivirus software actively running on your new device will warn you about malware in your system, warn you against clicking malicious links in phishing emails, and ultimately protect you from hacking. Get my picks for the best antivirus protection products of 2024 for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.
Woman looking at new smartphone. (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
Avoid these common mishaps with your new device
Ignore updates: don’t skip Software updates When setting up a new device. These updates often include important security patches and new features. Enable automatic updates whenever possible to keep your device up to date.
App overload: It’s tempting to download every app or tool that catches your eye. However, too many apps can slow down your device and increase the risk of malicious software being downloaded. Use trusted sources like the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Forget privacy settings: Take the time to review and configure Privacy settings on your device. Disable features such as location tracking or data tracking If you don’t need it for your application.
Ignore physical protection: Even one drop can destroy your brand new device. It is important to have some quality to protect and strengthen them accessorieslaptop bags and backpacks, messenger bags, laptop sleeves, portable hard drives, headphones, webcam covers, attachable portable displays, portable laptop stands, Bluetooth mice, and more. power strip and surge protector for your device. You’ll also need a good cell phone charger. Check out these picks Top 5 mobile phone chargers. The last thing you want is to render your device useless because you don’t have a decent charging accessory.
5 Best Mobile Phone Chargers for Every Occasion
Set up your new device so you can find it if you lose it
These are the best steps to take when you receive a new laptop, tablet, or smartphone, whether it’s new or not. apple or android In case your product is lost or stolen, turn on the “Find Me” setting. Here are the steps you can take for the options below:
How to turn on Find My on iPhone
- open setting App.
- Please tap name.
- choice please find me
- tap Find your iPhone and switch it on.
Steps to turn on Find My on your iPhone. (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
What is artificial intelligence (AI)?
How to turn on Find My on your MacBook
- go to apple menu Select (the small Apple icon) in the upper left corner, then System settings.
- then click Privacy and security It’s in the sidebar (you may need to scroll down).
- click Location servicesIt’s on the right.
- turn on Location servicesTurn on and then find my stuff It’s in the list of apps.
Note: If you don’t see Find Me, go to System Services in your list of apps, then detailthen turn on Find My Mac.
How to turn on “Find My Device” in Windows 11
- Select. start button It’s located at the bottom left of your PC screen.
- go to setting.
- choice Privacy and security.
- choice Find your device Press to select “ON”.
- go to Location services Press to select “ON”.
How to turn on Find My on iPad
- go to setting.
- Please tap name.
- click please find me
- tap Find your iPad Press to select “ON”.
How to turn on Find My Device on your Android or Google tablet
SSettings may vary depending on your Android smartphone manufacturer.
- go to you setting App.
- choice safety.
- tap Find my device.
- enable find my stuff Toggle the slider on.
What should I do if I get a new smart TV?
Boy playing video games on smart TV. (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
smart tv The perfect device for the holiday season. Not only do you have access to tons of streaming apps, you can also browse the internet, stream music and videos, and view photos. All these features come with some degree of risk regarding targeted advertising and malware. Any smart device can be infected with malware, but smart tv Typically, no device is subject to this type of attack. This has happened in the past with both Samsung TV and Apple TV, but such cases are extremely rare. But before you start enjoying your favorite movies and TV shows, take the following steps to protect your smart TV.
Disable ads and tracking
Disabling ads and tracking on your smart TV mostly limits the TV’s ability to collect data about you and the content you watch. Here’s how to disable this feature on Samsung, LG, and Vizio TVs.
LG
Some models may have different settings and options, so always check the user manual or LG’s official website for the latest information.
- go to setting > Additional settingss > General.
- choice live plus Disable automatic content recognition (ACR).
- choice advertisement Change the settings to “Do not sell my personal information.”
- After checking the terms of use and privacy policy, opt out Provides viewing and audio information, interest-based and cross-device advertising, and Live Plus automatic content recognition.
samsung
Some models may have different settings and options, so always check the user manual or Samsung’s official website for the latest information. For example, some models have smart features instead of support In the settings menu.
- go to setting > support > Terms and Privacyy > Privacy Choices.
- choice Viewing information services Disable automatic content recognition (ACR).
- choice voice recognition service Coordinate voice data collection.
Vizio
Some models may have different settings and options, so always check your user manual or Vizio’s official website for the latest information.
- go to setting>Administrators and Privacy.
- choice Displaying data Turn off automatic content recognition (ACR).
- choice advertisement Adjust ad tracking.
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Disable all camera and voice recognition settings
Most smart TVs don’t have built-in microphones or cameras, but brands that do have a way to turn them off.
samsung
Some models may have different settings and options, so always check the user manual or Samsung’s official website for the latest information. For example, some models have smart features instead of support In the settings menu. Some models include voice recognition instead of voice recognition service In the Terms and Policies menu.
- go to setting > support > Terms and Policies.
- go to voice recognition service Click to select Off.
- Some Samsung models have a retractable camera in the center of the device. Gently push back on the lens without touching it until it clicks and turns off.
LG
- go to setting > All settingss > General.
- choice User Agreement.
- disable Audio information settings.
- Some LG TV models come with a retractable camera. Keep the lens pressed down when not in use.
Other smart TV brands may come with an external camera. Always unplug it when not in use.
Top 10 soundbars to improve your TV audio experience
Sell, donate, or recycle your old device
A woman scrolling on her smartphone. (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
If you have an old device that you no longer need, you can sell or recycle it. Some services will pay you even if your device is not working. To get the best value for your device, you need to choose the right service. The services available are:
Amazon trade-in: If you shop a lot on Amazon, it might be worth it to trade in your old device to a trade-in company. You can exchange your device for an Amazon gift card, even non-functional items. This is a convenient way to get rid of unwanted electronics and earn credit towards future Amazon purchases. You can also check the trade-in value of your device before shipping it in. Before disposing of your old device, be sure to follow these steps: How to safely dispose of your old PC or Mac.
more: How to safely dispose of your old cell phone.
Cart important points
As you get started setting up your new electronics, remember that taking a little time to protect and customize your electronics can save you a lot of headaches down the road. By following these first steps, you’re not only protecting your investment; It also improves the overall experience.
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