9sBlog

Security

Stay safe and private online

Passwords, VPNs, antivirus, scam-spotting, browser privacy, and device backups — practical guides to keep your accounts and data safe.

18 articles · updated September 2, 2026

Good security isn’t about paranoia or buying every tool you’re sold. These guides walk you through the handful of habits and settings that actually protect your accounts, your devices, and your personal data.

01

Passwords and logins

Lock down the accounts everything else depends on.

  1. A laptop, a phone showing a photo app, and a hand writing in a notebook on a wooden deskDo you actually need a password manager?Start here if you're still reusing passwords.6 min read
  2. A smartphone showing a digital security lock.How to make strong passwords (with a free generator)9 min read
  3. A locked door, a metaphor for account securitySet up two-factor authentication (2FA)7 min read
  4. A set of house keys on a tableSet up passkeys and stop using passwordsThe passwordless upgrade worth switching to.8 min read
02

Scams, phishing, and spam

Spot the tricks that come straight to your inbox and phone.

  1. Antivirus and security software on a screenHow to spot a phishing email or scam link9 min read
  2. A laptop and coffee cup on a deskStop spam texts and robocalls on Android8 min read
03

VPNs, antivirus, and safe connections

Decide what protection you actually need before you install anything.

  1. A laptop displaying a security padlockDo I need a VPN? An honest decision guide6 min read
  2. A finger touching a digital security interfaceHow to set up a VPN on your phone and PC7 min read
  3. A laptop keyboard lit in red, suggesting a cyber attackDo you still need antivirus in 2026?5 min read
  4. Overhead view of an ASUS laptop, headphones, a phone, a camera and a mouse on a white deskIs public Wi-Fi actually safe to use?7 min read
04

Browser and device privacy

Control what your browser and devices quietly share about you.

  1. An iMac, wireless keyboard and mouse, and glasses on a notebook beside a mug on a white deskWhat incognito mode actually hides (and what it doesn't)5 min read
  2. Lines of web code shown on a screenHow to clear cookies in Chrome, on desktop and Android5 min read
  3. Code on a computer screenBlock ads and pop-ups in Chrome7 min read
  4. A map dotted with location pinsTurn off location services on Windows 116 min read
05

Backups, resets, and fixes

Good habits for keeping data safe, plus fixes for when something breaks.

  1. A laptop, tablet, phone and external drive on a deskHow to back up your files properly14 min read
  2. An Android phone showing its app gridFactory reset an Android phone safelyWipe your data before you sell or hand off a phone.7 min read
  3. A cyber-security concept with a lock and network linesFix Microsoft Defender when it won't turn on6 min read
  4. A hooded figure at a keyboard, suggesting a cyber attackSecure a WordPress website in 9 practical stepsFor anyone running their own site.5 min read