How to Talk About Cybersecurity with Your Family and Why It Matters

In today’s digital world, cybersecurity is a life skill. From managing passwords to recognizing phishing emails, digital safety needs to be part of the everyday conversation at home. And yes, that means with your kids and your parents.

Here’s a practical guide to starting that conversation and protecting your entire household – hopefully, without making anyone roll their eyes.

Start with Security Basics

Think of cybersecurity as locking your front door. You do it not because you expect trouble, but because it’s smart to be cautious. The same logic applies online.

• Be suspicious by default. Don’t open links or attachments unless you're absolutely sure they’re safe. If it's unexpected, even if it looks as though it’s from a friend or coworker, double-check before clicking.
• Think before you share. Online forms or sketchy websites might ask for your name, date of birth, address, or even your Social Security number. Always ask: Is this legitimate? Do they really need this info?

Passwords & Password Managers

We’ve all reused a password or scribbled one down on a sticky note. But those habits make you an easy target for hackers.

• Create strong, unique passwords. Each account should have its own. A password manager can generate and remember them for you.
• Enable multi-factor authentication or 2-factor authentication (MFA/2FA). This feature protects an account by requiring identity verification through multiple avenues. For instance, it might ask for both your password and a code sent to your phone to log in. It’s a simple way to add an extra layer of protection.

Tip: Help family members install a trusted password manager like 1Password, Bitwarden, or LastPass—and show them how to use it.

Emails, Texts, and Phone Calls: Trust but Verify

Scammers are getting better at pretending to be someone you trust.

• Emails: Look closely at sender addresses, especially if the message states “urgent action.” Phishing emails often appear to come from banks, schools, or coworkers.
• Texts: If you receive a suspicious text message, especially with a link, don’t click it. Scam texts can look like package delivery alerts, security notifications, or even messages from a friend in trouble.
• Phone calls: Just because your phone says it’s from a known business or local number doesn’t mean it’s safe. If someone calls asking for personal info, hang up and call the official number yourself.

Secure Your Devices

Your phone, laptop, and tablet are treasure troves of personal information. Don’t leave them vulnerable.

• Keep software and apps up to date.
• Install reputable antivirus software.
• Use device encryption and lock screens with PINs or biometrics.
• Back up your data regularly.

Helping Your Kids Stay Safe Online

Kids today are digital natives. They’ve never known a world without the internet. But that doesn’t mean they know how to stay safe.

• Talk regularly about online safety. Discuss what’s okay to share and what’s not.
• Encourage open communication. If they encounter something weird or scary online, you want them to feel comfortable talking to you about it.
• Use parental controls responsibly. Tools are helpful, but nothing replaces good conversations and guidance.

Helping Your Parents Stay Safe (Without Lecturing Them)

Many older adults didn’t grow up with digital tools and may not instinctively spot red flags.

• Be patient. Avoid tech-shaming. Teach them how to recognize scams and set up tools like password managers.
• Set up safe defaults. Help them enable MFA/2FA, use a strong email provider, and freeze their credit (more on that below).
• Remind them it’s okay to ask. Make yourself the “go-to” person for questions without judgment.

Freeze Your Credit—It’s Free and Powerful

One of the best ways to protect yourself from identity theft is to freeze your credit. Here’s how:

1. Visit each of the three major credit bureaus websites:
   • Equifax
   • Experian
   • TransUnion
2. Create an account and verify your identity.
3. Follow the steps to freeze your credit. You’ll be given instructions to “unfreeze” it when needed, like when applying for a loan or credit card.

Important: You do not need to pay a service to freeze your credit. It’s free and fully under your control.¹

Once a year, check your credit report to make sure everything looks correct. Use annualcreditreport.com, not look-alike sites, to access your reports safely.

Keep the Conversation Going

Cybersecurity isn’t a “set it and forget it” topic. Threats evolve, and so should your awareness.

Make it a point to check in with your family regularly:

• Did they get a strange email?
• Have they updated their devices?
• Are they still using the same password everywhere? (Hopefully not.)

These simple check-ins can prevent major problems—and help your family feel confident and in control of their digital lives.

Cybersecurity isn’t about paranoia, it’s about preparation. When your family understands the risks and takes basic steps to stay secure, you’re protecting more than just data. You’re safeguarding trust, time, and peace of mind.

Sources:

1. https://www.usa.gov/credit-freeze

Disclosures:

Apella Capital, LLC (“Apella”), DBA Apella Wealth is an investment advisory firm registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm only transacts business in states where it is properly registered or excluded or exempt from registration requirements. Registration of an investment adviser does not imply any specific level of skill or training and does not constitute an endorsement of the firm by the Commission. Apella Wealth provides this communication as a matter of general information. Any data or statistics quoted are from sources believed to be reliable but cannot be guaranteed or warranted.