Keep your system updated

• What to do:

  • Windows: Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates.

  • Mac: System Settings > General > Software Update.

• How VTS helps: We enable automatic updates, monitor patch status, and remediate failed updates remotely so you’re always protected.

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Turn on real-time protection and run weekly scans

• What to do:

  • Windows: Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Quick scan. Ensure “Real-time protection” is On.

  • Mac: Use built-in XProtect plus a reputable AV; schedule weekly scans if available.

• How VTS helps: We deploy and manage endpoint protection (EDR/AV), schedule scans, and get alerts to respond quickly.

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Enable a strong sign-in: password + PIN/biometrics

• What to do:

  • Windows: Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options > set PIN and Windows Hello (fingerprint/face).

  • Mac: System Settings > Touch ID & Password (or Apple Watch unlock) > set strong password.

• How VTS helps: We enforce strong password policies, set up device encryption, and help configure biometrics securely.

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Turn on device encryption

• What to do:

  • Windows: BitLocker (Pro/Enterprise): Control Panel > BitLocker Drive Encryption. On Home editions, Device Encryption (if supported): Settings > Privacy & Security.

  • Mac: FileVault: System Settings > Privacy & Security > FileVault.

• How VTS helps: We verify encryption, escrow recovery keys securely, and ensure compliance across devices.

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Back up your files automatically

• What to do:

  • Windows: Settings > Accounts > Windows backup or use File History; also use OneDrive for important folders.

  • Mac: Time Machine to an external drive + iCloud Drive for critical documents.

• How VTS helps: We implement 3‑2‑1 backups (local + cloud), monitor backup success, perform test restores, and assist with recovery.

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Update your browser and use an ad/tracker blocker

• What to do:

  • Keep Edge/Chrome/Safari updated; enable automatic updates.

  • Install a reputable content blocker and enable “Do Not Track.”

• How VTS helps: We standardize secure browsers, push updates, recommend vetted extensions, and harden privacy settings.

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Be skeptical of links and attachments (phishing)

• What to do:

  • Don’t click unexpected links; verify sender; hover to preview URLs; when in doubt, go directly to the site.

• How VTS helps: We provide phishing awareness tips, set up email security (SPF/DKIM/DMARC), and offer safe-check guidance for suspicious messages.

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Use standard user accounts for daily use

• What to do:

  • Windows: Settings > Accounts > Family & other users > ensure your daily account isn’t Administrator.

  • Mac: System Settings > Users & Groups > use a Standard account; keep an Admin account separate for installs.

• How VTS helps: We set least‑privilege defaults, create a separate admin account, and prompt for elevation only when needed.

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Clean up startup apps and keep performance healthy

• What to do:

  • Windows: Task Manager > Startup apps > Disable unnecessary items; Storage Sense for disk cleanup.

  • Mac: System Settings > General > Login Items; Manage storage recommendations.

• How VTS helps: We tune startup lists, remove bloat, schedule maintenance, and monitor health and storage.

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Secure your Wi‑Fi and home network

• What to do:

  • Set a strong router admin password; use WPA2‑AES or WPA3; disable WPS; change default SSID; update router firmware.

• How VTS helps: We audit your home network, recommend secure settings, segment IoT devices on guest/VLANs, and assist with firmware updates.

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Bonus: Use a password manager and enable MFA everywhere

• What to do:

  • Choose a reputable password manager; enable MFA (authenticator app) for email, banking, and social accounts.

• How VTS helps: We help you pick and set up a manager, migrate passwords safely, and enable MFA with recovery options.