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Learn how to:
Create an email account
Send and receive emails
Attach documents and photos
Open attachments safely
Organize your inbox
Recognize phishing emails and scams
Learn how to:
Join a Zoom meeting
Join a Google Meet meeting
Turn your camera on and off
Mute and unmute your microphone
Share your screen
Troubleshoot common audio and video issues
Learn how to:
Create a letter
Save a document
Print a document
Convert files to PDF
Scan documents
Attach documents to emails
Learn how to:
Make and receive calls
Send text messages
Take and share photos
Install and update apps
Connect to Wi-Fi
Adjust accessibility settings
Learn how to:
Search for information online
Create and manage passwords
Use online forms
Download files safely
Identify trustworthy websites
Learn how to:
Avoid common scams
Protect personal information
Recognize fraudulent emails and text messages
Secure your devices
Create strong passwords
If you would like one-on-one assistance with a computer, smartphone, tablet, printer, email account, online service, or other technology-related issue, personalized support is available.
The Internet is a worldwide network that allows computers, smartphones, tablets, and other devices to communicate with each other. It is used to browse websites, send emails, make video calls, watch videos, access online services, and much more.
A web browser is a program used to access websites.
Common web browsers include:
Google Chrome
Microsoft Edge
Mozilla Firefox
Apple Safari
When someone tells you to “open your browser,” they are referring to one of these programs.
An email address is similar to a mailing address, but for electronic messages.
Examples:
People use email addresses to send and receive messages, documents, photos, and other files.
A file is a digital document, picture, video, spreadsheet, or other piece of information stored on a device.
Examples:
A letter you wrote
A family photograph
A PDF document
A spreadsheet
A PDF is a document format that helps preserve the appearance of a document regardless of the device used to open it.
Many organizations use PDFs for:
Forms
Manuals
Reports
Letters
Receipts
Wi-Fi allows your device to connect to the Internet without a physical cable.
Most homes, businesses, libraries, and public locations offer Wi-Fi access.
An app (short for “application”) is a software program designed to perform a specific task.
Examples:
Zoom
Gmail
Google Maps
Banking applications
A password helps protect your accounts and personal information.
Good passwords are:
Long
Unique
Difficult for others to guess
Never share your passwords with someone you do not trust.
A scam is an attempt to trick someone into giving away money, personal information, passwords, or access to their devices.
Common warning signs include:
Requests for gift cards
Threats demanding immediate action
Requests for passwords
Unexpected pop-up warnings
Emails claiming your account has been compromised
When in doubt, stop and verify the request before responding.
Everyone starts somewhere.
Learning technology is no different than learning to drive a vehicle, operate equipment, or use a new tool.
It takes practice, patience, and time.
Don’t be discouraged if something seems confusing at first.
With a little guidance and experience, technology can become a valuable and useful part of everyday life.
Learn how to:
Create an email account
Send and receive emails
Attach documents and photos
Open attachments safely
Organize your inbox
Recognize phishing emails and scams
An email account allows you to send and receive messages over the Internet. You can use it to communicate with family and friends, receive important information, sign up for websites, schedule appointments, and much more.
Creating an email account is free with many providers, including Google Gmail, Microsoft Outlook, and Yahoo Mail. In this guide, we’ll use Gmail as an example because it is one of the most popular and widely accepted email services.
You’ll need:
A computer, smartphone, or tablet connected to the Internet
Your first and last name
Your date of birth
A mobile phone number (recommended for account security)
A few minutes to complete the setup
Open your preferred web browser, such as:
Google Chrome
Microsoft Edge
Mozilla Firefox
Safari
In the address bar at the top of your browser, type:
gmail.com
Then press the Enter key on your keyboard.
Look for a button that says something similar to:
Create account
Create an account
Sign up
Click it once.
If you’re asked who the account is for, choose For my personal use, unless you’re creating it for a business.
Type:
Your first name
Your last name
Then click Next.
Fill in the requested information.
This helps verify your identity and may be required to create your account.
Click Next.
Now you’ll choose the email address people will use to contact you.
It might look like:
If the address you choose is already being used by someone else, Gmail will ask you to choose another one.
Try adding:
Your middle initial
A favorite number
Your birth year (if you’re comfortable using it)
Choose something you’ll be happy using for years to come.
A password protects your account.
Choose one that is:
At least 12 characters long, if possible
Easy for you to remember
Difficult for someone else to guess
A good password usually includes:
Uppercase letters
Lowercase letters
Numbers
Special symbols such as !, @, #, or $
For example:
Instead of:
dog123
Choose something much stronger, like:
BlueRiver!Horse27
Never share your password with anyone you don’t completely trust.
Google may ask for your mobile phone number.
Adding it helps:
Recover your account if you forget your password.
Verify that you are the owner of the account.
Protect your account from unauthorized access.
Although it may be optional in some cases, it is strongly recommended.
Google will display its Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.
Take a few moments to review them.
When you’re ready, click I Agree or Accept.
Congratulations!
You now have your own email address.
You’ll usually be taken directly to your Gmail inbox, where you’ll be able to send and receive email.
Look for a button labeled Compose.
Click it.
Fill in:
To: The recipient’s email address
Subject: A short description of your message
Message: Type what you’d like to say
When you’re finished, click Send.
Yes. Gmail, Outlook, and Yahoo Mail all offer free email accounts.
Yes.
Many people have one personal email address and another for work or online shopping.
If you’ve added a recovery phone number or recovery email address, you can usually reset your password by following the instructions on the sign-in page.
No.
Most personal email accounts remain free as long as you continue using them.
You choose who you give your email address to. However, be cautious about posting it publicly on websites or social media, as this may increase unwanted email (spam).
Write down your email address and store it in a safe place until you’ve memorized it.
Consider using a password manager or another secure method to store your password. Avoid keeping passwords on sticky notes attached to your computer.
Check your email regularly so you don’t miss important messages.
Be cautious of unexpected emails asking for personal information or passwords. Legitimate companies rarely ask for sensitive information through email.
Your email address is often the key to many of your online accounts. Protect it carefully by using a strong password and enabling two-factor authentication whenever it’s available. A little extra security can go a long way in protecting your personal information.
Email is one of the easiest ways to communicate with people over the Internet. You can use it to send messages, photos, documents, and other files to family, friends, businesses, schools, doctors, and many other organizations.
Think of email like regular mail, except it arrives in just a few seconds instead of several days.
When you write an email, you’ll usually see these sections:
To: The email address of the person you’re sending the message to.
Subject: A short title that tells the recipient what the email is about.
Message: The main part of your email where you type what you want to say.
Open your email program or visit your email provider’s website and sign in.
For example:
Gmail
Outlook
Yahoo Mail
Look for a button that says:
Compose
New
New Message
Click it once.
A blank email will open.
Click inside the To box.
Type the person’s email address carefully.
For example:
janesmith@example.com
Be sure there are no spelling mistakes. Even one incorrect letter can send the email to the wrong person or prevent it from being delivered.
Click inside the Subject box.
Type a short description of your email.
Examples:
Dinner Plans
Doctor Appointment
Vacation Photos
Thank You
A clear subject helps the recipient know what your email is about before opening it.
Click in the large blank area below the subject.
Type your message.
For example:
Hello Jane,
I hope you’re having a great week. I just wanted to let you know that I’ll be arriving around 2:00 PM tomorrow.
See you soon!
Walter
Before sending it, take a moment to check:
Is the email address correct?
Did you include a subject?
Does your message say everything you intended?
Are there any spelling mistakes you’d like to correct?
Taking a few extra seconds can prevent mistakes.
When you’re satisfied with your email, click the Send button.
Your email will be delivered over the Internet.
Most emails arrive within a few seconds.
Receiving email is even easier.
When someone sends you a message, it will usually appear in your Inbox.
After signing in, look for a folder called Inbox.
This is where most new emails arrive.
Unread emails are often displayed in bold text or marked with a colored dot or number.
These markings let you know you haven’t opened them yet.
Click (or tap) the email once.
The full message will open so you can read it.
Take your time reading the message carefully.
If you’d like to answer the sender:
Open the email.
Click Reply.
Type your response.
Click Send.
Your reply will automatically be sent back to the original sender.
Sometimes you’ll want to send someone a copy of an email you received.
To do this:
Open the email.
Click Forward.
Enter the new recipient’s email address.
Click Send.
Most email accounts include several folders.
Inbox – New emails you receive.
Sent – Emails you’ve already sent.
Drafts – Emails you’ve started but haven’t finished.
Trash – Emails you’ve deleted.
Spam or Junk – Emails that your provider believes may be unwanted or suspicious.
Most emails arrive within a few seconds, although occasionally they may take a few minutes.
Yes.
Simply enter multiple email addresses in the To field, separating them with commas if needed, or use the Cc field if your email service provides one.
Some email services allow you to undo sending for a few seconds immediately after clicking Send.
If not, you may need to send another email explaining the mistake.
Check:
Your Spam or Junk folder.
That the sender used the correct email address.
Whether your Internet connection is working.
Only people who have access to your email account should be able to read your messages.
Always keep your password private and sign out when using a public or shared computer.
Check your email regularly so you don’t miss important messages.
Read emails carefully before replying.
Never open attachments or click links from people you don’t know or weren’t expecting to hear from.
Be polite and respectful in your emails, just as you would be in a letter.
Think of email as digital mail. You write your message, address it to the right person, and click Send instead of putting it in a mailbox. Once you become comfortable with the basics, sending and receiving emails quickly becomes second nature.
Attachments allow you to send files along with your email message. Common attachments include letters, forms, PDFs, photographs, spreadsheets, and other documents.
An attachment is a file that travels with your email.
Examples:
A letter you wrote
A PDF document
A photograph from your phone or camera
A spreadsheet
A scanned form
You will need:
An email account
A file already saved on your computer, tablet, or smartphone
Internet access
Open your email account and create a new email message.
Fill in:
The recipient’s email address
The subject line
Your message
Look for one of the following symbols:
📎 Paperclip
or a button labeled:
Attach
Attach File
Insert Attachment
Upload
Click the attachment button.
A window will appear showing files and folders on your device.
Common locations include:
Often contains:
Letters
PDFs
Forms
Saved documents
Often contains:
Family photos
Screenshots
Images
Often contains:
Files downloaded from websites
Forms
Attachments saved from previous emails
Click the file you wish to send.
Examples:
VacationPhotos.jpg
MedicalForm.pdf
FamilyLetter.docx
After selecting the file, click:
Open
or
Choose
Many email services must upload the file before sending.
You may see:
A progress bar
A spinning icon
A percentage indicator
Wait until the upload is complete.
Look below the subject line or within the message window.
You should see the file listed as an attachment.
Example:
✓ FamilyLetter.pdf
If you do not see the file listed, repeat the attachment process.
Once your attachment appears correctly:
Click Send.
The recipient will receive both your message and the attached file.
Check:
Documents
Downloads
Pictures
Desktop
If you still cannot find it, use the Search feature on your device and search by the file name.
Some email providers limit attachment size.
If your file is too large:
Reduce the size of photos
Save images at a lower resolution
Use a cloud-sharing service such as Google Drive, OneDrive, or Dropbox
Yes.
Most email services allow multiple files to be attached to the same message.
Yes.
Look for an X, Remove, or Trash icon next to the attachment.
Click it to remove the file.
❌ Forgetting to attach the file before sending
❌ Attaching the wrong file
❌ Sending very large files that exceed email limits
❌ Not waiting for the upload to finish
Before clicking Send, ask yourself:
“Can I see the attachment listed in my email?”
If the answer is yes, your attachment is likely ready to send.
Sometimes people send more than just a message in an email. They may also include a file, such as a photograph, document, spreadsheet, or PDF. These files are called attachments because they are attached to the email.
Most attachments are completely safe, but some can contain viruses or scams. Learning how to recognize the difference is an important part of staying safe online.
Think of an email like a letter.
The written message is the letter itself.
An attachment is like placing a photograph or document inside the envelope along with the letter.
Attachments can include:
Family photos
School assignments
Medical forms
Bills or receipts
Resumes
Tax documents
PDF files
Word documents
Spreadsheets
Most email programs display a small paperclip icon 📎 next to emails that contain attachments.
When you open the email, you may see the attachment listed near the top or bottom of the message.
Ask yourself these questions:
If you know and trust the person who sent the email, the attachment is more likely to be safe.
If you don’t recognize the sender, be cautious.
Even if you know the sender, think about whether you were expecting the file.
For example:
Did your doctor say they were sending paperwork?
Did your friend mention they would email vacation photos?
Did your employer say they were sending a document?
If not, it’s okay to pause before opening it.
Be careful if the email:
Uses poor spelling or grammar.
Creates a sense of panic or urgency.
Promises money or prizes.
Asks for passwords or personal information.
Contains only a vague message such as “Open this immediately.”
These can be signs of a scam.
If you’re confident the attachment is safe:
Click or tap the email to read it.
Look for the file name or the paperclip icon.
Examples:
Vacation.jpg
TaxForms.pdf
Resume.docx
Budget.xlsx
Click or tap the attachment once.
Depending on the file type, it may:
Open immediately.
Download to your device first.
Ask which program you’d like to use to open it.
This is normal.
Sometimes you’ll see a Download button instead of the file opening automatically.
Click Download.
The file will usually be saved to your Downloads folder unless you’ve chosen another location.
You can open it later by finding it in your Downloads folder.
Usually end in:
.jpg
.jpeg
.png
These are generally pictures.
Usually end in:
PDF files are commonly used for forms, manuals, invoices, and official documents.
Usually end in:
.doc
.docx
These are editable documents.
Usually end in:
.xls
.xlsx
These contain tables, lists, or calculations.
Do not open an attachment if:
You don’t know who sent it.
You weren’t expecting it.
The email asks you to “Enable Content” or “Enable Macros” unless you completely trust the sender and understand why.
The file name looks strange or suspicious.
The sender pressures you to act immediately.
If you’re unsure, contact the sender using a phone number or email address you already know—not by replying to the suspicious email.
Don’t panic.
If you believe the attachment may have been dangerous:
Close the file.
Disconnect from the Internet if instructed by your organization’s IT department.
Run a trusted antivirus scan if you have antivirus software installed.
Contact a knowledgeable friend, family member, or your organization’s IT support if you’re concerned.
Many modern email providers automatically scan attachments for known threats, but it’s still important to stay cautious.
Yes.
Although many email services scan attachments before they reach you, some harmful files can still get through.
No.
Millions of safe attachments are sent every day.
The important thing is knowing who sent it and whether you expected it.
Yes.
Most email programs allow you to download and save the file first.
You may not have the correct program installed to read that type of file.
Ask the sender what kind of file it is or whether they can send it in a different format, such as a PDF.
Keep your computer and phone updated with the latest software.
Use trusted antivirus software if you’re using a Windows computer.
Never share personal information because of an attachment or an email request alone.
If something doesn’t feel right, stop and ask someone you trust before opening it.
One of the safest habits you can develop is to pause for a moment before opening any attachment. Ask yourself, “Do I know who sent this, and was I expecting it?” Those two simple questions can help protect you from many common email scams and viruses.
As you use email more often, your inbox will begin to fill with messages. Some will be important, while others may be advertisements, newsletters, receipts, or messages you’ve already read.
Keeping your inbox organized makes it much easier to find important emails when you need them.
The good news is that organizing your inbox doesn’t have to be complicated. Even a few simple habits can make a big difference.
Your Inbox is the main folder where new emails arrive.
Think of it like the mailbox outside your home. New mail is delivered there until you decide what to do with it.
Over time, your inbox can become crowded if you never remove or organize your messages.
Try to check your email on a regular basis.
When you open a message, it is usually marked as Read.
Unread emails often appear in bold text or have a colored dot next to them, making them easy to spot.
Many emails are only useful for a short time.
Examples include:
Store advertisements
Shipping notifications after your package arrives
Promotional offers
Event reminders that have already passed
If you no longer need an email:
Open it (or select it).
Click the Delete or Trash button.
The email will move to your Trash folder, where it usually remains for a period of time before being permanently deleted.
Don’t delete emails you may need later, such as:
Medical information
Tax documents
Receipts for expensive purchases
Travel confirmations
Insurance information
School or work communications
If you’re unsure whether you’ll need an email in the future, it’s usually better to keep it.
Many email services let you organize messages into folders (sometimes called labels).
For example, you might create folders named:
Family
Friends
Medical
Banking
Travel
Shopping
Bills
Work
School
After creating a folder, you can move related emails into it.
This keeps your inbox much cleaner.
Sometimes you want to keep an email but don’t need to see it every day.
Instead of deleting it, you can Archive it.
Archiving removes the email from your inbox while keeping it safely stored in your account.
You can still find archived emails later using the search feature.
If you’re looking for an older email, you usually don’t have to scroll through hundreds of messages.
Instead:
Find the search box near the top of your email.
Type a word related to the message.
For example:
Amazon
Doctor
Vacation
Jane
Receipt
Your email service will search for matching messages.
Searching is often much faster than browsing through your inbox.
Some email services allow you to:
Star messages ⭐
Flag messages
Mark them as Important
These features make it easier to find emails you want to come back to later.
Most email providers automatically move suspicious messages into a folder called:
Spam
Junk
Check this folder occasionally.
Sometimes a legitimate email is mistakenly placed there.
If that happens, you can usually mark it as Not Spam or Not Junk, and future emails from that sender are more likely to arrive in your inbox.
If you keep receiving newsletters or advertisements you no longer want:
Open the email.
Scroll to the very bottom.
Look for a link that says Unsubscribe.
Clicking this link will often stop future promotional emails from that sender.
Only use the unsubscribe link if the email appears to come from a legitimate company. If the email looks suspicious or like a scam, it’s safer to delete it or mark it as spam instead.
No.
Some emails are important records and should be kept.
Delete only the messages you no longer need.
Most email services move deleted emails to the Trash folder first.
You can often restore them before they are permanently removed.
Modern email accounts can usually store thousands of messages.
However, keeping your inbox organized makes it much easier to find important information.
Not necessarily.
Some people prefer using folders, while others simply use the search feature.
Choose the method that works best for you.
A simple routine can keep your inbox under control:
Read new emails.
Delete messages you don’t need.
Keep important emails.
Archive messages you want to save but don’t need in your inbox.
Use folders or labels if you’d like additional organization.
Even spending just a few minutes organizing your inbox each week can save you a lot of time later.
Think of your inbox like your kitchen table. If you leave every piece of mail there forever, it quickly becomes cluttered. But if you regularly throw away junk mail, file away important papers, and keep only what you’re currently working on, everything becomes much easier to find.
Most emails you receive are harmless, but some are designed to trick you into giving away your personal information, passwords, or money. These fraudulent messages are known as phishing emails.
The goal of a phishing email is to make you believe the message came from a trusted person or company when it actually came from a scammer.
Fortunately, once you know what to look for, many phishing emails become much easier to recognize.
A phishing email is a fake email that tries to trick you into doing something, such as:
Clicking a dangerous link
Opening a harmful attachment
Giving away your password
Providing your banking information
Sharing your Social Security number
Sending money to a scammer
Scammers often pretend to be companies you know and trust.
A phishing email may appear to come from:
Your bank
Amazon
PayPal
Apple
Microsoft
UPS, FedEx, or USPS
Netflix
Your employer
A government agency
Even a friend or family member
Just because an email uses a familiar name or logo doesn’t mean it’s genuine.
Be cautious if an email:
Examples include:
“Your account will be closed today!”
“Immediate action required!”
“Verify your account now!”
“Payment overdue!”
Scammers want you to act quickly before you have time to think.
Legitimate companies generally do not ask you to send sensitive information by email, including:
Passwords
Banking information
Social Security numbers
Credit card numbers
Security codes
If an email asks for this information, it’s a major warning sign.
Many phishing emails contain:
Misspelled words
Unusual grammar
Awkward sentences
Strange formatting
Not all scam emails have these problems, but many do.
The display name may look correct, but the actual email address may be completely different.
For example, an email claiming to be from your bank might actually come from an unrelated address.
If you’re unsure, don’t trust the message based on its display name alone.
Examples include:
You won a prize you never entered.
Someone wants to give you a large sum of money.
You’ve been selected for a special reward.
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Many phishing emails contain links that lead to fake websites.
Before clicking:
Ask yourself if you were expecting the email.
Think about whether the request makes sense.
If you’re unsure, don’t click the link.
Instead, open your web browser yourself and visit the company’s official website by typing its address, or use a bookmark you’ve already saved.
Never open an attachment unless:
You know who sent it.
You were expecting it.
The email appears legitimate.
Some attachments can install harmful software on your computer.
If an email seems suspicious:
Do not:
Click any links.
Open attachments.
Reply to the email.
Send personal information.
Instead:
Contact the company using a phone number or website you already know.
Ask a trusted family member or friend if you’re uncertain.
Delete the email or report it as spam if you’re confident it’s fraudulent.
The email claims your package couldn’t be delivered and asks you to click a link.
If you’re expecting a package, visit the shipping company’s official website and enter your tracking number there instead.
The email claims there’s a problem with your bank account.
Instead of clicking the link, contact your bank using the phone number on the back of your debit or credit card.
The email claims your account has been hacked or that your password has expired.
Go directly to the official website to check your account instead of using the email link.
The email says your computer has a virus and tells you to call a phone number immediately.
Legitimate companies generally don’t monitor your personal computer or send unsolicited emails about viruses.
Don’t panic.
Close the webpage immediately.
If you entered your password, change it as soon as possible by going directly to the official website.
If you entered financial information, contact your bank or credit card company immediately.
Usually, simply opening an email is not harmful.
The greater risks come from:
Clicking links.
Opening dangerous attachments.
Entering personal information.
Ask yourself:
Was I expecting this email?
Do I recognize the sender?
Does the request make sense?
Is the company asking for information it should already have?
If something feels unusual, take a moment to verify it before taking any action.
Whenever you receive an unexpected email:
Don’t rush.
Does this message make sense?
Were you expecting it?
If you’re unsure, contact the company or person using a phone number, website, or email address you already know—not the contact information provided in the suspicious email.
Keep your computer and phone updated with the latest software.
Use strong, unique passwords for your important accounts.
Enable two-factor authentication whenever it’s available.
Remember that scammers are becoming more convincing every year. Even experienced computer users occasionally receive convincing phishing emails.
One simple habit can protect you from many online scams:
Never trust an unexpected email just because it looks official.
If a message asks you to click a link, share personal information, or send money, take a moment to verify it through a trusted source first. Spending an extra minute checking can help prevent a very costly mistake.
Learn how to:
Join a Zoom meeting
Join a Google Meet meeting
Turn your camera on and off
Mute and unmute your microphone
Share your screen
Troubleshoot common audio and video issues
Zoom is a popular video meeting service used by families, churches, businesses, healthcare providers, schools, and community organizations. With Zoom, you can participate in meetings using a computer, tablet, or smartphone.
Before joining a Zoom meeting, you will need:
An Internet connection
A computer, tablet, or smartphone
A meeting invitation from the organizer
The invitation is often sent by:
Text message
Church newsletter
Community organization
Healthcare provider
A Zoom invitation often contains information such as:
Meeting Topic:
Monthly Community Meeting
Join Zoom Meeting:
https://zoom.us/…
Meeting ID:
123 456 7890
Passcode:
ABC123
Do not worry if this seems confusing at first. Most people only need to click the meeting link.
This is usually the easiest method.
Open the email or message containing the Zoom invitation.
Locate the link that says:
Join Zoom Meeting
or a web address beginning with:
https://
Click the link.
Zoom may:
Open automatically
Ask permission to open Zoom
Offer to download Zoom if it is not already installed
Follow the on-screen instructions.
Enter your name if prompted.
Example:
Jane Smith
Click:
Join Meeting
You should now be entering the meeting.
If the link does not work, you can join manually.
Open the Zoom application.
Click:
Join
Enter the Meeting ID provided in the invitation.
Enter the Passcode if requested.
Click:
Join
Look for the camera icon.
Others can see you.
Others cannot see you.
Many people prefer to join with their camera off initially until they are comfortable.
Look for the microphone icon.
Others cannot hear you.
Others can hear you speak.
When not speaking, many meetings encourage participants to remain muted to reduce background noise.
If you cannot hear anyone:
Check:
Computer volume
Speaker volume
Headphones
Zoom audio settings
Many audio problems can be solved by leaving the meeting and joining again.
| Button | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Microphone | Mute or unmute yourself |
| Camera | Turn video on or off |
| Participants | View meeting attendees |
| Chat | Send text messages during the meeting |
| Leave | Exit the meeting |
Usually, no.
Most participants can join a meeting without creating a Zoom account.
Not always.
Some meetings place participants in a waiting room until admitted by the organizer.
Many Zoom meetings provide a phone number you can call if you do not have Internet access.
You can usually join a Zoom meeting after it has already started.
❌ Clicking an old meeting link
❌ Entering the Meeting ID incorrectly
❌ Forgetting to unmute before speaking
❌ Closing Zoom instead of clicking Leave Meeting
Try joining your first Zoom meeting 10–15 minutes early. This gives you time to solve any audio or video issues before the meeting begins.
Sometimes a doctor, family member, church group, employer, teacher, or friend will invite you to join a video meeting. Google Meet lets everyone see and hear one another over the Internet, almost like sitting together in the same room.
You do not usually need to create an account just to join a meeting if the organizer allows guests, although some meetings require you to sign in with a Google account.
You’ll need:
The person organizing the meeting will usually send you one of these:
It will usually contain a button or a web address (link) that looks something like this:
https://meet.google.com/abc-defg-hijDon’t worry if it looks confusing. You don’t need to understand it—you simply need to open it.
Move your mouse pointer over the link.
Click the left mouse button once.
Your Internet browser (such as Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Firefox, or Safari) should open automatically.
Tap the meeting link once with your finger.
Your phone may:
Any of these is normal.
The first time you use Google Meet, your device may ask:
“Allow Google Meet to use your camera?”
Select Allow.
It may also ask:
“Allow Google Meet to use your microphone?”
Select Allow.
If you accidentally choose Don’t Allow, other people may not be able to see or hear you until you change your device’s settings.
Before you enter the meeting, you’ll usually see yourself on the screen.
This gives you a chance to:
If you don’t want others to see you yet, you can turn your camera off before joining.
Look for a button that says something like:
Click or tap it.
If you see Ask to join, wait a few moments. The meeting organizer will let you into the meeting.
While you’re in the meeting, you’ll see several buttons.
🎤
When the microphone is on, people can hear you.
If you aren’t speaking, it’s often polite to mute yourself to reduce background noise.
Click or tap the microphone button to mute or unmute yourself.
📷
This turns your camera on or off.
If your camera is off, people can still hear you (unless your microphone is muted).
📞 (usually a red phone icon)
When the meeting is finished, click or tap the red phone button to leave.
Leaving the meeting does not shut down your computer or phone.
Try clicking it again. If it still doesn’t open, copy the link and paste it into your web browser’s address bar, or ask the meeting organizer to send the invitation again.
Check:
Make sure:
Check:
That’s okay! In many meetings, you can turn your camera off before joining or at any time during the meeting. Others will still be able to hear you if your microphone is on.
It’s a good idea to join your meeting 5–10 minutes early, especially if it’s your first time using Google Meet. That gives you time to make sure your camera, microphone, and Internet connection are all working before the meeting begins.
Your device’s camera can be turned on or off during video calls in apps like Google Meet, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and others.
Try these simple steps:
If you’re not ready to be seen when you first join a meeting, it’s perfectly fine to join with your camera off. You can always turn it on later with a single click when you’re ready.
Sometimes it’s easier to show something than to explain it.
Screen sharing lets everyone in the meeting see what is on your computer, phone, or tablet. You might share a document, a photo, a presentation, a website, or even demonstrate how to do something.
Only share your screen when you are ready, because everyone in the meeting will be able to see what you choose to share.
Think of your screen as a whiteboard.
Normally, only you can see what’s on your screen. When you share your screen, everyone in the meeting can see it too.
They cannot usually control your computer unless you specifically give them permission.
Before sharing your screen:
Close any documents you don’t want others to see.
Close personal emails or messages.
Close websites that contain private information.
Open the document, picture, or website you plan to share.
This will make sharing easier and help protect your privacy.
Look near the bottom of the meeting window.
Depending on the meeting app, the button may say something like:
Share Screen
Present
Present Now
Share
Screen Share
The button often has a picture of a computer screen with an arrow.
Click or tap this button once.
You may see several choices.
Everyone sees everything on your screen.
If you switch from one program to another, everyone will see that too.
This option is helpful if you’ll be moving between different programs.
You choose one specific program, such as:
Microsoft Word
Excel
A web browser
PowerPoint
Everyone only sees that one program.
This is often the safest choice because your other windows remain private.
If you’re showing a website or an online video, you may be able to share only that browser tab.
This keeps the rest of your computer private.
After choosing what you’d like to share:
Click Share or Present.
After a few seconds, everyone in the meeting will be able to see what you selected.
Speak normally while sharing.
You can:
Scroll through a document.
Open pages on a website.
Show pictures.
Demonstrate how to do something.
Play a presentation.
Remember that everyone is watching what you are doing.
When you’re finished:
Look for a button that says:
Stop Sharing
Stop Presenting
Stop Screen Share
Click it once.
Everyone will return to seeing the normal meeting instead of your screen.
Give people time to follow what you’re showing.
If possible, maximize the document or website you’re sharing so everyone can read it more easily.
Before sharing, make sure your screen doesn’t display:
Passwords
Banking information
Personal emails
Private messages
Medical information
Anything you wouldn’t want everyone to see
Only what you choose to share.
If you choose Entire Screen, they can see everything that appears on your screen.
If you choose Window or Browser Tab, they’ll only see that specific item.
Usually, no.
Most meeting apps only let others control your computer if you specifically give them permission.
Some computers ask for permission before allowing screen sharing.
If you see a message asking for permission, select Allow or Share.
Don’t panic.
Simply click Stop Sharing, then start sharing again and choose the correct window.
If it’s your first time sharing your screen, try practicing with a family member or friend before an important meeting. After you’ve done it once or twice, it quickly becomes one of the easiest features to use during a video call.
Sometimes, during a video meeting, something doesn’t work quite right. You may not be able to hear anyone, others may not be able to hear you, or your camera may not turn on.
The good news is that many of these problems have simple solutions. Before becoming frustrated, work through the steps below one at a time.
If you can’t hear the other people in the meeting:
Make sure the volume on your computer, phone, or tablet is turned up.
Some keyboards have volume buttons, and most devices also have a volume control in the lower corner of the screen or on the side of the device.
Some meeting programs let you mute the sound coming from other people.
Look for a speaker or headphone icon and make sure it isn’t muted.
If you’re using headphones or earbuds:
Make sure they’re plugged in all the way.
If they’re wireless, make sure they’re connected.
Try unplugging them to see if sound comes from your computer’s speakers instead.
Simply ask:
“I can’t hear anyone. Can someone check if you can hear me?”
This lets others know you’re having trouble and they may be able to help.
If others say they can’t hear you:
Look for the microphone button.
If it has a line through it or appears muted, click or tap it once to turn it back on.
Talk in your normal speaking voice.
You don’t need to shout.
Avoid placing your hand over the microphone.
If you’re using a laptop, don’t cover the small microphone openings near the keyboard or screen.
The first time you use a meeting app, your computer or phone may ask:
Allow this app to use your microphone?
If you accidentally selected Don’t Allow, the meeting won’t be able to hear you until permission is turned back on.
If people can’t see you:
Look for the camera button.
If it appears crossed out, click or tap it once.
Some laptops have a small privacy cover over the camera.
Others may have tape or a camera cover installed.
Make sure nothing is blocking the lens.
If your device asks:
Allow this app to use your camera?
Choose Allow.
If you’re sitting in a very dark room or with a bright window behind you, people may have trouble seeing you.
Try turning on a light or facing a window instead of sitting with it behind you.
If the picture stops moving:
Wait a few seconds.
Check whether your Internet connection is still working.
Close other programs that may be using your Internet connection.
If necessary, leave the meeting and join again.
This is often caused by a weak Internet connection.
Try these steps:
Move closer to your Wi-Fi router.
Ask others in your home to pause activities that use a lot of Internet, such as streaming videos or large downloads.
Turn off your camera temporarily if needed. Video uses more Internet than audio.
A blurry or frozen picture usually means your Internet connection is struggling.
Try:
Waiting a few moments.
Closing other programs.
Moving closer to your Wi-Fi router.
Turning off your camera if the meeting only requires audio.
An echo usually happens when sound from your speakers is picked up by your microphone.
Try one of these:
Mute yourself when you’re not speaking.
Lower your speaker volume.
Wear headphones or earbuds.
Make sure only one device in the room has joined the meeting with its microphone turned on.
Try these steps:
Click the meeting link again.
Make sure you’re connected to the Internet.
Restart your web browser.
Restart your computer, phone, or tablet if necessary.
Ask the meeting organizer to send a new invitation if the original link doesn’t work.
If your Internet connection is lost:
Check whether other websites will open.
Make sure you’re connected to Wi-Fi.
Restart your Wi-Fi router if you’re at home.
If you’re using a smartphone, try switching between Wi-Fi and cellular data if available.
Sometimes technology simply needs a fresh start.
A simple restart of your computer, phone, or tablet often fixes problems that seem much more complicated.
After restarting:
Reconnect to the Internet.
Open the meeting link again.
Rejoin the meeting.
Join important meetings 5–10 minutes early so you have time to solve any problems.
Keep your device charged or plugged into power.
Test your camera and microphone before important appointments.
If something isn’t working, stay calm and work through one step at a time.
Remember that even experienced computer users occasionally have audio or video problems. You’re not alone!
If you’re joining a doctor’s appointment, job interview, or important family meeting, consider asking a friend or family member to do a quick practice video call with you beforehand. A few minutes of practice can help you feel much more confident when the real meeting begins.
Learn how to:
Create a letter
Save a document
Print a document
Convert files to PDF
Scan documents
Attach documents to emails
Writing a letter on a computer allows you to easily edit, print, email, and save your work. Once you learn this skill, you can create personal letters, forms, applications, notes, and many other documents.
You will need:
A computer
A word processing program
Common examples include:
Microsoft Word
Google Docs
LibreOffice Writer
Apple Pages
Do not worry if you use a different program. Most word processors work in a similar way.
A word processor is a program used to create and edit documents.
Think of it as a digital typewriter with many additional features.
Locate and open your preferred program.
Examples:
Microsoft Word
Google Docs
LibreOffice Writer
When the program opens, create a:
New Blank Document
Click anywhere on the blank page and begin typing.
Example:
June 17, 2026
Dear John,
I hope you are doing well. I wanted to write and thank you for attending our family gathering.
Sincerely,
Jane Smith
Do not worry about making mistakes. They can be corrected later.
You can:
Add text
Delete text
Correct spelling errors
Change fonts
Adjust spacing
Most programs automatically underline misspelled words.
Saving is one of the most important skills to learn.
If you do not save your work, it could be lost if your computer shuts down unexpectedly.
Click:
File → Save
or press:
Ctrl + S (Windows)
Command + S (Mac)
Select where you would like to save the document.
Good choices include:
Documents
Desktop
A folder you created for letters
Avoid saving important files in locations you may not remember later.
Choose a descriptive name.
Examples:
ThankYouLetter
FamilyUpdateJune2026
DoctorQuestion
ChurchNewsletterDraft
Avoid vague names such as:
Document1
New File
Untitled
Get into the habit of saving frequently.
A good rule:
Save every few minutes.
Many people simply press:
Ctrl + S
whenever they pause their work.
Open:
File Explorer
Then navigate to:
Documents
or the folder where you saved the file.
Open:
Finder
Then browse to the folder where you saved the document.
If you remember the file name:
Type it into your computer’s Search box.
Open the document and select:
File → Print
or press:
Ctrl + P (Windows)
Command + P (Mac)
Review the preview before printing.
Open the document again.
You can:
Add text
Remove text
Correct mistakes
Save the updated version
Unlike a handwritten letter, you do not need to start over.
Use your computer’s Search feature and search for part of the file name.
For important documents, yes.
Examples:
FamilyLetter_v1
FamilyLetter_v2
FamilyLetter_Final
Yes.
Once saved, the document can be attached to an email.
❌ Forgetting to save
❌ Saving with an unclear file name
❌ Not remembering where the file was saved
❌ Accidentally creating multiple copies of the same document
Create a folder called:
Letters
Store all personal correspondence there. This makes your documents much easier to find later.
Printing allows you to create a paper copy of a document, letter, recipe, photo, ticket, or other file from your computer.
Although every printer is a little different, the basic printing process is very similar on most computers.
Make sure:
Your printer is turned on.
The printer has paper.
The printer has enough ink or toner.
Your printer is connected to your computer by a cable or Wi-Fi.
The document you want to print is open on your screen.
Open the file you want to print.
This might be:
A letter
A PDF
A recipe
A photo
A boarding pass
A school assignment
A webpage
Make sure you’re looking at the correct document before printing.
Most programs have a Print option.
You can usually find it by:
Clicking File at the top of the window, then selecting Print.
or
Pressing Ctrl + P on a Windows computer.
or
Pressing Command (⌘) + P on a Mac.
A print window will appear.
If you have more than one printer installed, you’ll see a list.
Click the printer you want to use.
If you only have one printer, it may already be selected automatically.
Look for a box labeled Copies.
If you only need one copy, leave it set to 1.
If you need several copies, enter the number you want.
If your document has several pages, you can choose:
All Pages – Prints the entire document.
Current Page – Prints only the page you’re viewing.
Custom Pages – Prints only specific pages.
For example:
Typing:
3-5
prints pages 3 through 5.
Typing:
1,4,7
prints only pages 1, 4, and 7.
Most print windows show a Print Preview.
Take a moment to check:
Does everything fit on the page?
Are all the pages included?
Is the document facing the correct direction?
Does it look the way you expected?
If something looks wrong, you can make changes before printing.
When everything looks correct:
Click the Print button.
Your printer should begin printing within a few seconds.
Walk to your printer and collect your document.
If your document has multiple pages, make sure you received them all.
Many printers let you choose between:
Color
Black and White (Grayscale)
If you’re printing a simple document, black and white may save colored ink.
Some printers can automatically print on both sides of each sheet of paper.
This option is often called:
Two-sided printing
Duplex printing
Print on both sides
Using both sides of the paper can save paper.
Check:
Is the printer turned on?
Does it have paper?
Is it connected to your computer?
Did you choose the correct printer?
Are there any error lights or messages on the printer?
Your document may need different print settings, such as adjusting the page size, margins, or scale.
Look at the print preview before printing again.
Add paper to the paper tray, then try printing again.
Your printer may be low on ink or toner.
Replacing the ink or toner cartridge usually solves this problem.
If the printer is still printing, you may be able to cancel the print job from your computer or by pressing the Cancel button on the printer.
Always check the print preview before printing.
Make sure you’ve selected the correct printer, especially if you’re at work, school, or a library.
Keep extra paper and ink or toner available if you print often.
If you’re printing an important document, review it one last time before clicking Print.
Printing doesn’t change your original document. It simply creates a paper copy. If you notice a mistake after printing, you can correct the document on your computer and print a new copy whenever you’re ready.
Many businesses, government agencies, schools, healthcare providers, and organizations prefer documents to be submitted as PDF files. PDFs help ensure that documents appear the same on different computers and devices.
This guide will show you how to convert a letter into a PDF and then send it as an email attachment.
PDF stands for:
Portable Document Format
A PDF preserves the appearance of a document so that it looks the same regardless of who opens it.
Common uses include:
Letters
Applications
Tax documents
Medical forms
Receipts
Reports
Open the document you previously created using your word processing program.
Examples:
Microsoft Word
Google Docs
LibreOffice Writer
Apple Pages
Review the document and make any final changes before continuing.
Most programs offer one of the following options:
Click:
File → Save As
Choose:
Then click:
Save
Click:
File → Export
Choose:
Then click:
Export
If the program does not offer Save As PDF:
Click:
File → Print
Choose:
Microsoft Print to PDF
or
Save as PDF
Then click:
Choose a location and save the file.
Navigate to the folder where you saved the PDF.
You should see a file ending in:
Example:
FamilyLetter.pdf
Double-click the file to confirm that it opens correctly.
Sign in to your email account.
Create a new message.
Enter:
Recipient
Subject
Message
Click the paperclip icon or attachment button.
Locate the PDF file you just created.
Select it and click:
Open
or
Choose
Wait for the upload to complete.
Confirm that the PDF appears in your email.
Example:
✓ FamilyLetter.pdf
If you do not see the file listed, repeat the attachment process.
Review the email one final time.
Confirm:
✓ Recipient is correct
✓ Subject is present
✓ PDF attachment appears
✓ Message is complete
Then click:
Send
Open your:
Sent
folder.
Locate the email and verify that the PDF attachment appears there as well.
PDFs are easier to share because:
They look the same on most devices.
They are less likely to be accidentally changed.
Many organizations prefer them.
Yes.
Open the PDF and select:
File → Print
Yes.
Many scanners and smartphone scanning applications can save documents directly as PDFs.
No.
A PDF is a document format.
Some PDFs contain text, while others contain scanned images of documents.
❌ Attaching the original document instead of the PDF
❌ Forgetting to attach the file
❌ Not verifying the PDF opens correctly
❌ Saving the PDF in a location that cannot be found later
Create a folder called:
PDF Documents
Store important PDFs there so they are easy to find when needed.
You may need to send PDFs when:
Applying for benefits
Sending forms to a healthcare provider
Submitting insurance documents
Sharing tax records
Sending letters to family or friends
Providing documents requested by a business
Scanning allows you to create a digital copy of a paper document or photograph. Once a document has been scanned, you can save it on your computer, email it to someone, or keep it as a backup.
Many people scan documents for:
Medical records
Insurance paperwork
Tax documents
Family photos
Receipts
Signed forms
Letters
School assignments
Most modern printers include a built-in scanner. You can also scan documents using many smartphones and tablets.
You’ll need:
A scanner or an all-in-one printer with a scanner
Or a smartphone with a scanning app or built-in scanning feature
The document you want to scan
Your computer or mobile device turned on
Make sure your printer or scanner is turned on and connected to your computer.
Lift the lid of the scanner.
You’ll see a large piece of glass called the scanner bed.
Place your document face down on the scanner glass.
Most scanners have arrows or corner markings that show where to place the paper.
Line up the corner of your document with these markings.
Close the scanner lid gently.
Keeping it closed helps produce a clearer scan.
On your computer, open the scanning software that came with your printer or scanner.
Many computers also include a built-in scanning program.
Most people can simply use the default settings.
If asked, you may choose:
Color (for photos or colorful documents)
Black and White (for simple text documents)
PDF (best for most documents)
JPEG (best for photographs)
Many programs have a Preview button.
This lets you see how your document will look before scanning.
If needed, adjust the document and preview it again.
Click Scan.
The scanner will slowly move beneath the glass.
Wait until the scanning process is complete.
Choose:
A location to save the file
A name for the document
Examples:
Insurance Card
Doctor Records
Tax Documents 2026
Family Photo
Saving files with clear names makes them much easier to find later.
Many smartphones can scan documents without needing a separate scanner.
Open your phone’s scanning feature or a trusted scanning app.
Place your document on a flat surface with good lighting.
Point your phone’s camera at the document.
Most scanning apps will automatically detect the edges of the page.
Follow the on-screen instructions to:
Capture the image.
Adjust the edges if needed.
Save the scan as a PDF or image.
You can then email or store the scanned document.
Best for:
Letters
Forms
Contracts
Medical records
Tax documents
PDF is the most common format for scanned documents.
Best for:
Family photographs
Pictures
Artwork
Most flatbed scanners require the document to be placed face down on the glass.
If you’re unsure, look for the markings near one corner of the scanner bed or check your printer’s instructions.
Open the scanner lid and reposition the paper so it lines up with the corner guides.
Then scan it again.
Check that the scanner glass is clean.
If necessary, adjust the brightness settings in the scanning program.
Most computers save scanned documents in one of these folders:
Documents
Pictures
Downloads
You can also choose where to save the file before scanning.
Yes.
Once your document has been saved, you can attach it to an email just like any other file.
Clean the scanner glass occasionally with a soft, lint-free cloth to help produce clearer scans.
Give your files descriptive names so you can easily find them later.
Save important scans in more than one place, such as your computer and a trusted cloud storage service or an external backup drive.
For documents with several pages, many scanners can combine all of the pages into a single PDF file.
Scanning doesn’t change or damage your original document—it simply creates a digital copy. Having digital copies of important papers can make them much easier to organize, share, and protect in case the originals are ever lost or damaged.
Many people believe they need a scanner to send paperwork electronically. In reality, most modern smartphones can scan documents and save them as PDF files.
This can be useful for sending:
Medical forms
Insurance paperwork
Applications
Signed documents
Letters
Receipts
You will need:
A smartphone or tablet
Good lighting
The document you wish to scan
An email account
A document scan is a digital copy of a paper document.
Instead of taking a regular photograph, scanning apps automatically:
Detect document edges
Improve readability
Remove background clutter
Create PDF files
The result often looks much more professional than a standard photo.
Most iPhones and iPads include a built-in document scanner.
Open the:
Notes
application.
Create a new note.
Tap the camera icon.
Select:
Scan Documents
Place the document on a flat surface.
Position the camera above the document.
The device may automatically capture the scan.
If not, tap the shutter button.
Save the scan.
Choose:
Share
and then:
to send the document by email.
Many Android devices include built-in scanning features.
If your device does not, you can install a document scanning application.
Common options include:
Google Drive Scan
Microsoft Lens
Adobe Scan
Open the scanning application.
Choose:
Scan Document
Place the document on a flat surface.
Capture the image.
Review the scan and crop if necessary.
Save as PDF.
Attach the PDF to an email.
Bright, even lighting helps improve quality.
Avoid:
Dark rooms
Heavy shadows
Glare from overhead lights
Place the document on a table or desk.
Wrinkled pages can reduce readability.
Hold the phone directly above the document.
Try not to tilt the camera.
Review the PDF carefully.
Make sure:
✓ All pages are visible
✓ Text is readable
✓ Nothing is cut off
Most scanning applications allow multiple pages to be combined into a single PDF.
Example:
Page 1 → Add Page
Page 2 → Add Page
Page 3 → Add Page
The application creates one PDF containing all pages.
After creating the PDF:
Open your email account.
Create a new message.
Click the attachment button.
Select the PDF.
Wait for the upload to finish.
Click Send.
Usually, yes.
Scans are often easier to read and create smaller file sizes.
Yes.
Handwritten letters, forms, and signatures can all be scanned.
Yes.
Most scanning applications support multi-page documents.
Generally, yes.
However, avoid uploading sensitive documents to unfamiliar websites or applications.
❌ Poor lighting
❌ Cropping off part of the document
❌ Forgetting to review the scan
❌ Sending blurry images
❌ Saving the scan but forgetting where it was stored
Before sending an important document, open the PDF and zoom in to ensure every word is readable.
If you can read it clearly, the recipient likely can as well.
Scanning is commonly used for:
Insurance claims
Medical paperwork
Government forms
Church forms
Legal documents
School paperwork
Receipts and records
Attachments allow you to send files along with your email message. Common attachments include letters, forms, PDFs, photographs, spreadsheets, and other documents.
An attachment is a file that travels with your email.
Examples:
A letter you wrote
A PDF document
A photograph from your phone or camera
A spreadsheet
A scanned form
You will need:
An email account
A file already saved on your computer, tablet, or smartphone
Internet access
Open your email account and create a new email message.
Fill in:
The recipient’s email address
The subject line
Your message
Look for one of the following symbols:
📎 Paperclip
or a button labeled:
Attach
Attach File
Insert Attachment
Upload
Click the attachment button.
A window will appear showing files and folders on your device.
Common locations include:
Often contains:
Letters
PDFs
Forms
Saved documents
Often contains:
Family photos
Screenshots
Images
Often contains:
Files downloaded from websites
Forms
Attachments saved from previous emails
Click the file you wish to send.
Examples:
VacationPhotos.jpg
MedicalForm.pdf
FamilyLetter.docx
After selecting the file, click:
Open
or
Choose
Many email services must upload the file before sending.
You may see:
A progress bar
A spinning icon
A percentage indicator
Wait until the upload is complete.
Look below the subject line or within the message window.
You should see the file listed as an attachment.
Example:
✓ FamilyLetter.pdf
If you do not see the file listed, repeat the attachment process.
Once your attachment appears correctly:
Click Send.
The recipient will receive both your message and the attached file.
Check:
Documents
Downloads
Pictures
Desktop
If you still cannot find it, use the Search feature on your device and search by the file name.
Some email providers limit attachment size.
If your file is too large:
Reduce the size of photos
Save images at a lower resolution
Use a cloud-sharing service such as Google Drive, OneDrive, or Dropbox
Yes.
Most email services allow multiple files to be attached to the same message.
Yes.
Look for an X, Remove, or Trash icon next to the attachment.
Click it to remove the file.
❌ Forgetting to attach the file before sending
❌ Attaching the wrong file
❌ Sending very large files that exceed email limits
❌ Not waiting for the upload to finish
Before clicking Send, ask yourself:
“Can I see the attachment listed in my email?”
If the answer is yes, your attachment is likely ready to send.
Learn how to:
Make and receive calls
Send text messages
Take and share photos
Install and update apps
Connect to Wi-Fi
Adjust accessibility settings
One of the most important things your phone can do is help you stay connected with family, friends, doctors, businesses, and emergency services.
Whether you’re using a smartphone or a traditional cell phone, making and receiving calls is simple once you know the basic steps.
Make sure:
Your phone is turned on.
Your battery has enough charge.
You have a cellular signal or Wi-Fi calling available (if your phone uses it).
If you see “No Service” or “Emergency Calls Only,” you may need to move to an area with better cellular coverage.
Look for the Phone app on your home screen.
It often has an icon that looks like this:
📞
Tap the icon once to open it.
Use the keypad to type the phone number you want to call.
Be sure to enter the correct number.
If you’re calling someone who is already saved in your contacts, you can usually find their name instead of typing the number.
Tap the green Call button.
Your phone will begin dialing.
You may hear:
Ringing
A recorded message
The other person answering
Hold the phone to your ear, or use the speakerphone if you’d rather not hold the phone.
Speak in your normal voice.
There’s no need to shout.
When you’re finished talking:
Tap the red End Call button.
The call will disconnect.
When someone calls you:
Your phone will:
Ring
Vibrate
Or both
The caller’s name may appear if they’re saved in your contacts.
Otherwise, you’ll usually see their phone number.
Depending on your phone, you may:
Tap the green Answer button.
Swipe the green phone icon across the screen.
Press a physical button (on some older phones).
Hold the phone to your ear or use speakerphone.
Speak clearly and listen carefully.
When the conversation is finished:
Tap the red End Call button.
If you can’t answer:
Tap the red Decline button or swipe it, depending on your phone.
The caller may be sent to your voicemail if you have voicemail set up.
Instead of typing a phone number:
Open the Phone app.
Tap Contacts.
Find the person’s name.
Tap their name.
Tap the Call button.
This is often the easiest way to call people you talk to regularly.
Speakerphone lets everyone nearby hear the conversation without holding the phone to your ear.
During a call:
Tap the Speaker button.
To return to normal:
Tap Speaker again.
Speakerphone is useful when:
You’re taking notes.
Several people need to participate in the conversation.
You want to keep your hands free.
Remember that people nearby will be able to hear the call.
If the caller is too quiet:
Use the Volume Up button on the side of your phone while the call is in progress.
If they’re too loud:
Use the Volume Down button.
The phone will usually ring several times.
If no one answers, you may:
Leave a voicemail.
Hang up and try again later.
Simply say:
“I’m sorry, I dialed the wrong number.”
Then end the call politely.
Check:
Do you have a cellular signal?
Is Airplane Mode turned on?
Is your phone charged?
Did you enter the correct phone number?
Try:
Turning up the volume.
Moving to an area with better reception.
Switching to speakerphone.
Asking the caller if they can hear you.
Yes.
When your phone rings, an answer button will usually appear even if you’re using another app.
If you have an emergency and need immediate help, call your local emergency number (such as 911 in the United States and Canada).
Only call emergency services for real emergencies that require immediate assistance.
Save important phone numbers in your contacts so you don’t have to remember them.
Keep your phone charged, especially if you’re away from home.
If you’re in a noisy place, move somewhere quieter before making an important call.
Speak clearly and don’t be afraid to ask the other person to repeat something if you didn’t hear it.
Making phone calls gets easier with practice. If you’re new to using a smartphone, try calling a trusted family member or friend a few times. It’s a great way to become comfortable with the buttons and features before you need to make an important call.
Text messaging is one of the easiest and fastest ways to communicate with family, friends, coworkers, and businesses. A text message is a short written message that you send from your phone to someone else’s phone.
Unlike a phone call, text messages can be read and answered whenever it’s convenient for the other person.
Make sure:
Your phone is turned on.
You have a cellular signal or an Internet connection if you’re using a messaging service that works over Wi-Fi.
You know the person’s phone number or have them saved in your contacts.
A text message is simply a written message sent from one phone to another.
People often use text messages to:
Say hello
Ask a quick question
Confirm appointments
Share an address
Send a reminder
Let someone know they’re running late
Text messages are usually best for short conversations.
Find the Messages app on your phone.
Its icon usually looks like a speech bubble.
Tap it once to open it.
Look for a button that says:
New Message
Compose
Start Chat
It often has a + symbol or a pencil icon.
Tap it once.
You can:
Type the person’s phone number.
Type the person’s name if they’re saved in your contacts.
As you type, your phone may suggest matching contacts.
Tap the correct name if it appears.
Tap inside the message box near the bottom of the screen.
The keyboard will appear automatically.
Type your message.
For example:
Hi Sarah! Just wanted to let you know I’ll be there around 3:00 PM.
Take your time. If you make a mistake, use the Backspace key to erase it.
When you’re finished:
Tap the Send button.
It usually looks like a paper airplane or an arrow.
Your message will be sent in just a few seconds.
When someone sends you a text message:
Your phone may:
Make a sound.
Vibrate.
Display a notification on the screen.
To read it:
Tap the notification.
or
Open the Messages app.
Tap the conversation.
The newest message will usually appear at the bottom.
After opening the conversation:
Tap the message box.
Type your reply.
Tap Send.
Your conversation will continue in the same message thread, making it easy to follow.
Your phone groups messages with the same person together.
This is called a conversation or message thread.
Instead of seeing each message separately, you’ll see the entire conversation in one place.
Most messaging apps let you send photos.
Look for an icon that looks like:
📎 (paperclip)
📷 (camera)
🖼️ (photo)
Tap the icon.
Choose:
Take a new picture.
Select a photo already on your phone.
After selecting the picture, tap Send.
If you no longer need a conversation:
Open the Messages app.
Press and hold the conversation (or open it and choose Delete, depending on your phone).
Confirm that you want to delete it.
Deleting a message from your phone does not remove it from the other person’s phone.
Check:
Do you have a cellular signal?
Is Airplane Mode turned off?
Is your phone connected to the Internet if required?
Try sending the message again after your connection improves.
Yes.
Many messaging apps allow you to add multiple recipients before sending the message.
Keep in mind that everyone in the group may be able to see each other’s replies, depending on how the group conversation is set up.
Your phone will usually:
Make a sound.
Vibrate.
Show a notification.
Display the new message in the Messages app.
That depends on your mobile phone plan.
Many plans include unlimited text messaging, but some may charge for certain types of messages or for international texting.
If you’re unsure, check with your mobile phone provider.
Yes.
Text messaging works independently of phone calls.
You can send a text without speaking to the other person.
Here are a few good habits:
Be polite and respectful.
Read your message before sending it.
Avoid sending sensitive personal information unless necessary.
Don’t expect an immediate reply—people may be busy or away from their phone.
Save frequently used phone numbers in your contacts.
Keep your messages clear and easy to understand.
If your message is long or complicated, a phone call may be a better choice.
Never text while driving. If you’re driving, wait until you’ve safely stopped before reading or sending messages.
Text messaging is a lot like writing a short note. Once you’ve sent a few messages, you’ll likely find it’s one of the quickest and most convenient ways to stay in touch with the people who matter most.
Your smartphone makes it easy to capture memories and share them with family and friends. Whether you’re taking pictures of loved ones, a beautiful sunset, an important document, or your favorite pet, learning a few simple steps will help you take better photos and share them with confidence.
Make sure:
Your phone is turned on.
The camera lens is clean.
You have enough battery power.
You have enough storage space to save new photos.
A quick wipe of the camera lens with a soft, clean cloth can make a surprising difference in photo quality.
Find the Camera app on your phone.
It usually has an icon that looks like a camera.
Tap it once to open it.
Hold your phone steady.
Point the camera toward the person or object you want to photograph.
You’ll see the image appear on your screen.
Before taking the photo:
Make sure your subject is fully visible.
Try to keep the phone as steady as possible.
Move a little closer if the subject appears too small.
Make sure there is enough light.
Avoid placing your finger over the camera lens.
Most smartphones focus automatically.
If the picture looks blurry, tap the subject on the screen.
The camera will usually adjust the focus automatically.
Press the large shutter button at the bottom of the screen.
It is usually a large white circle.
Hold the phone still for another second until the picture is taken.
After taking a picture:
Tap the small preview image in the corner of the camera screen.
Or
Open your phone’s Photos or Gallery app.
Your newest photo is usually the first one you’ll see.
Open the Photos or Gallery app.
Find the picture you want to share.
Tap it once to open it.
Look for the Share button.
It often looks like:
A square with an arrow pointing upward.
Three connected dots with lines between them.
A button labeled Share.
Tap it once.
Your phone will display several options.
You may be able to share your photo using:
Text Messages
Messenger
Other apps installed on your phone
Tap the method you want to use.
Select the person you’d like to send the photo to.
You may choose someone from your contacts or type their phone number or email address.
If you’d like, type a short message.
Then tap Send.
Your photo will be delivered to the recipient.
After taking a picture:
Simply return to the camera screen and press the shutter button again.
There is no limit to how many pictures you can take, as long as your phone has enough storage space.
Natural light usually produces the best-looking pictures.
If you’re indoors, try standing near a window.
Holding your phone still helps prevent blurry photos.
If possible, use both hands.
Move closer instead of using too much digital zoom.
Your photos will usually look sharper.
Before taking the picture, look behind your subject.
A simple background often makes the photo look much nicer.
Most smartphones automatically save pictures in the Photos or Gallery app.
Yes.
Open the picture.
Tap the Delete or Trash button.
Remember that once a photo is permanently deleted, it may not be recoverable.
Yes.
Most phones let you select several photos before tapping the Share button.
Large photos may take a little longer to upload.
If they still won’t send, check:
Your Internet connection.
Your cellular signal.
Whether the recipient’s contact information is correct.
Yes.
You can print your photos at home, at many retail stores, or through online photo printing services.
Before sharing a photo, take a moment to look closely at it.
Make sure it doesn’t accidentally show:
Home addresses
Credit cards
Personal documents
Computer screens with private information
Other sensitive information
Once a photo is shared online or sent to someone else, it can be difficult or impossible to take it back.
Take several photos if you’re trying to capture a special moment. You can always keep the best one and delete the rest later.
Keep your phone’s camera lens clean for clearer pictures.
Back up important photos so they aren’t lost if your phone is damaged or replaced.
Don’t be afraid to practice—taking great photos becomes easier with experience.
The best camera is the one you have with you. Your smartphone is designed to make photography easy, so don’t worry about getting every picture perfect. The more photos you take, the more comfortable and confident you’ll become.
Apps (short for applications) are programs that let your smartphone or tablet do different things. There are apps for checking the weather, reading the news, making video calls, shopping, banking, playing games, listening to music, and much more.
Most apps are easy to install, and keeping them updated helps them work properly and stay secure.
Think of your smartphone as a toolbox.
Each app is like a different tool.
For example:
A weather app tells you the forecast.
A banking app helps you manage your money.
A maps app gives you directions.
A video call app lets you talk with family and friends.
Some apps come already installed on your device, while others can be downloaded when you need them.
Make sure:
Your phone or tablet is connected to the Internet using Wi-Fi or cellular data.
Your device has enough battery power or is plugged in.
You have enough storage space for the new app.
Find the App Store on your home screen.
Tap it once.
Tap the Search button.
Type the name of the app you want.
For example:
Zoom
Google Maps
Weather
Tap Search.
Look carefully at the results.
Many apps have similar names.
Choose the app you intended to install.
It’s usually best to download apps from well-known companies or organizations.
Tap Get or the download button.
You may be asked to:
Enter your Apple ID password.
Use Face ID.
Use Touch ID.
This helps protect your account.
The app will begin downloading.
When it’s finished, tap Open, or return to your home screen to find the new app.
Find the Play Store app.
Tap it once.
Tap the search bar.
Type the name of the app.
Then tap Search.
Review the search results carefully.
Choose the app you want.
Whenever possible, choose apps from trusted developers.
Tap Install.
The app will begin downloading automatically.
When the installation is complete:
Tap Open.
Or return to your home screen and tap the app’s icon.
App developers regularly release updates to:
Fix problems
Improve performance
Add new features
Improve security
Keeping your apps updated helps them work their best.
Open the App Store.
Tap your profile picture near the top of the screen.
Scroll down to see available updates.
Tap Update next to an individual app.
Or tap Update All to update every app at once.
Open the Google Play Store.
Tap your profile picture.
Choose Manage apps & device.
If updates are available, tap Update All or update individual apps.
Most smartphones can update apps automatically.
This means your apps stay current without you having to remember to update them yourself.
Automatic updates are convenient and help keep your device secure.
If you no longer use an app, you can remove it.
On most devices:
Press and hold the app’s icon.
Choose Remove, Delete, or Uninstall.
Confirm your choice.
Removing an app usually does not cancel any subscriptions you may have purchased through that app.
No.
Many apps are free, while others cost money or offer optional purchases or subscriptions.
Always check the price before downloading.
Generally, yes—if you download them from the official App Store (Apple) or Google Play Store (Android).
Avoid downloading apps from unfamiliar websites or links sent in unexpected emails or text messages.
Check:
Is your Internet connection working?
Does your device have enough storage space?
Is your device compatible with the app?
Restarting your phone may also solve the problem.
Usually not.
Most app updates simply improve the app while keeping your settings and information.
Yes.
If you’ve removed an app, you can usually download it again from the App Store or Google Play Store.
Some apps will even restore your information after you sign back in.
Install apps only from trusted sources.
Read reviews if you’re unsure about an app.
Keep your apps updated for the best performance and security.
Remove apps you no longer use to free up storage space.
Before installing a new app, ask yourself two simple questions:
Do I really need this app? and Is it from a company I recognize or trust?
Being selective about the apps you install helps keep your phone organized, protects your personal information, and reduces the chances of downloading unsafe software.
Wi-Fi allows your computer, smartphone, tablet, or other devices to connect to the Internet without using cables. Most homes, businesses, libraries, hotels, and coffee shops offer Wi-Fi so you can browse the Internet, check email, watch videos, and use online apps.
Connecting to Wi-Fi is usually a quick and simple process.
Think of Wi-Fi as an invisible bridge between your device and the Internet.
Instead of plugging your device into a cable, Wi-Fi uses radio signals to connect you wirelessly.
When you’re connected to Wi-Fi, you can:
Browse websites
Send and receive emails
Watch videos
Make video calls
Download apps
Listen to music
Use many other online services
You’ll need:
A computer, smartphone, or tablet with Wi-Fi capability.
The name of the Wi-Fi network (sometimes called the network name or SSID).
The Wi-Fi password, if one is required.
Many home Wi-Fi network names and passwords are printed on a sticker attached to the Wi-Fi router.
Find the Settings app.
It usually looks like a small gear ⚙️.
Tap it once.
Tap Wi-Fi.
Some phones may list it under Network & Internet or Connections.
If Wi-Fi is turned off, tap the switch to turn it on.
Your device will begin searching for nearby Wi-Fi networks.
A list of available Wi-Fi networks will appear.
Tap the name of the network you want to join.
For example:
Smith Family Wi-Fi
Coffee Shop Guest
Library Wi-Fi
Make sure you select the correct network.
If the network is protected, you’ll be asked to enter the Wi-Fi password.
Type it carefully.
Remember:
Capital letters matter.
Lowercase letters matter.
Numbers and symbols must be entered exactly as shown.
Then tap Join or Connect.
After a few seconds, your device should connect.
A Wi-Fi symbol will usually appear near the top of the screen.
You’re now connected to the Internet through Wi-Fi.
Look in the lower-right corner of your screen, near the clock.
Click the Wi-Fi icon.
A list of nearby Wi-Fi networks will appear.
Click the one you want.
Click Connect.
Type the Wi-Fi password.
Click Next or Connect.
After a few moments, your computer should connect.
If you use the same Wi-Fi network regularly, your device may ask whether you’d like to connect automatically in the future.
Choosing Connect Automatically means your device will usually reconnect whenever you’re nearby, so you won’t have to enter the password each time.
Many places offer free Wi-Fi, including:
Libraries
Hotels
Restaurants
Airports
Coffee shops
Community centers
Some public Wi-Fi networks require you to open your web browser and agree to their terms before you can use the Internet.
Public Wi-Fi can be convenient, but it may not be as secure as your home network.
When using public Wi-Fi:
Avoid accessing sensitive accounts, such as online banking, unless necessary.
Don’t enter passwords or financial information on websites that don’t use a secure connection (look for https and a padlock icon in your browser).
Be cautious about connecting to networks with names you don’t recognize.
If you’re unsure whether a public Wi-Fi network is legitimate, ask an employee before connecting.
Try:
Moving closer to your Wi-Fi router.
Refreshing the list of available networks.
Making sure the router is turned on.
Check:
Capital and lowercase letters.
Numbers.
Special characters.
Wi-Fi passwords must be entered exactly as provided.
Try:
Opening a different website.
Restarting your device.
Restarting your Wi-Fi router if you’re at home.
Asking someone else if they’re having the same problem.
If it’s your home network, the password may be printed on a label attached to the router.
If not, contact the person who set up your Wi-Fi or your Internet service provider.
Wi-Fi connects your device to the Internet through a nearby wireless network, such as the one in your home.
Cellular data connects your phone to the Internet using your mobile phone provider’s network, even when Wi-Fi isn’t available.
Connect to your trusted home Wi-Fi whenever possible.
Write down your Wi-Fi password and keep it in a safe place in case you need it again.
Keep your Wi-Fi router in a central location in your home for the best signal.
If your connection suddenly becomes slow, try restarting your router by unplugging it for about 30 seconds, then plugging it back in.
Once you’ve connected to your home Wi-Fi for the first time, your device will usually remember it and reconnect automatically whenever you’re at home. That means you’ll rarely have to enter the password again unless it has been changed.
Modern computers, smartphones, and tablets include accessibility settings that make devices easier to see, hear, and use. These features can be especially helpful if you have trouble reading small text, hearing sounds, using a touchscreen, or pressing small buttons.
Many people assume accessibility features are only for people with disabilities, but they can make technology more comfortable for anyone.
Accessibility settings allow you to customize your device to better fit your needs.
You can:
Make text larger.
Increase the brightness or contrast of the screen.
Have your device read text aloud.
Make sounds louder.
Use voice commands.
Slow down how quickly you need to tap the screen.
Make the mouse pointer easier to see.
Most changes can be turned on or off at any time.
Most devices have a section called Accessibility in the Settings menu.
Open the Settings app.
Scroll down.
Tap Accessibility.
Click the Start button.
Open Settings.
Select Accessibility.
Older versions of Windows may call this section Ease of Access.
Click the Apple menu.
Choose System Settings (or System Preferences on older versions).
Click Accessibility.
If words are difficult to read:
Look for:
Display Size
Text Size
Font Size
Move the slider until the text is comfortable to read.
Larger text is one of the most helpful accessibility features for many people.
Some devices allow you to increase the size of everything on the screen—not just the text.
This makes:
Buttons
Menus
Icons
Apps
easier to see and tap.
A brighter screen is often easier to read.
Open your device’s Display settings.
Adjust the Brightness slider until the screen is comfortable.
Avoid setting the brightness higher than necessary, as it uses more battery power.
Higher contrast makes text stand out more clearly from the background.
Many devices offer options such as:
High Contrast
Increased Contrast
Dark Mode
Light Mode
Try different settings to see which is easiest on your eyes.
If something is still too small:
Most devices include a Magnifier or Zoom feature.
This lets you enlarge part of the screen whenever you need to.
It’s especially useful for reading small print.
Many devices can read text aloud.
This feature may be called:
Read Aloud
Spoken Content
Narrator
VoiceOver
TalkBack
It can help if reading small text becomes tiring.
If you have difficulty hearing:
Look for options such as:
Mono Audio
Hearing Aid Support
Live Captions
Sound Amplification
Some devices can even display captions during videos or phone calls.
Many smartphones and computers allow you to control them using your voice.
You may be able to:
Open apps.
Send messages.
Search the Internet.
Make phone calls.
Ask questions.
This can be especially helpful if using your hands is difficult.
On a computer, you can often make the mouse pointer:
Larger
Brighter
A different color
This makes it much easier to find on the screen.
If your device sometimes reacts before you’re ready, accessibility settings may let you:
Increase touch sensitivity.
Adjust how long you need to press before an action occurs.
Reduce accidental touches.
No.
They simply change how your device behaves.
You can change them back at any time.
Yes.
Every accessibility setting can usually be turned off or adjusted whenever you’d like.
Not at all.
People of all ages use accessibility features because they make devices easier and more comfortable to use.
If you’re not sure where to begin, many people find these three changes helpful:
Increase text size.
Make the mouse pointer larger (on a computer).
Turn on screen magnification for occasional use.
Change one setting at a time so you can easily tell what it does.
Don’t be afraid to experiment. You can always return to the original settings.
Ask a friend or family member to help you explore accessibility options if you’d like another opinion.
Keep your device updated, as software updates often add new accessibility features and improvements.
Accessibility settings are about making technology work for you. There is no “right” way to set them up. If larger text, brighter colors, voice reading, or other features make your device easier and more enjoyable to use, then you’ve found the settings that are right for you.
Learn how to:
Search for information online
Create and manage passwords
Use online forms
Download files safely
Identify trustworthy websites
The Internet contains billions of websites with information about almost every topic imaginable. Whether you’re looking for a recipe, directions, medical information, news, or answers to a question, a search engine can help you find what you need.
Learning how to search effectively can save you time and help you find more accurate information.
A search engine is a website that helps you find information on the Internet.
Some popular search engines include:
Bing
DuckDuckGo
Yahoo
You simply type what you’re looking for, and the search engine finds websites that may have the information you need.
You’ll need:
A computer, smartphone, or tablet connected to the Internet.
An Internet browser, such as Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Safari, or Firefox.
Open your preferred web browser.
If your browser opens to a search engine, you’re ready to begin.
If not, you can type the name of a search engine into the address bar.
Click or tap inside the search box.
A blinking cursor will appear.
This is where you’ll type what you’re looking for.
Type a few words that describe what you want to find.
For example:
Chocolate chip cookie recipe
Weather in Denver
How to change a flat tire
Best hiking trails near me
Symptoms of the flu
You don’t need to type a complete sentence unless you want to.
Search engines are very good at understanding simple questions.
Press the Enter key on your keyboard.
On a smartphone or tablet, tap Search or the magnifying glass.
Within a few seconds, you’ll see a list of results.
Each result usually includes:
A title
A short description
The website’s name
Read the descriptions before clicking.
Choose the result that seems most likely to answer your question.
Click (or tap) the result you’d like to read.
The website will open.
Take your time reading the information.
If it isn’t what you were looking for, return to the search results and choose another website.
Sometimes your first search doesn’t find exactly what you need.
Try:
Using more specific words.
Adding the name of a city or state.
Adding the year if you’re looking for current information.
For example, instead of:
weather
Try:
weather in Billings Montana
Or instead of:
taxes
Try:
2026 federal tax filing deadline
Being more specific usually produces better results.
If you’re looking for pictures instead of websites:
Perform your search.
Select Images near the top of the search results.
You’ll see photographs and illustrations related to your search.
If you’d rather watch a video:
Perform your search.
Select Videos.
Many topics have helpful instructional videos that explain things step by step.
Not every website contains accurate information.
When researching important topics, try to use trusted sources such as:
Government websites
Hospitals and medical organizations
Colleges and universities
Well-known businesses
Professional organizations
Whenever possible, compare information from more than one reliable source before making important decisions.
Some search results may be advertisements.
They are often labeled Sponsored or Ad.
Advertisements are not necessarily bad, but remember that they are paid promotions and may not always be the best answer to your question.
The Internet contains billions of webpages.
Try using more specific search words to narrow the results.
Try searching again using different words.
For example:
Instead of:
sore arm
Try:
causes of sore upper arm
Changing just a few words can make a big difference.
Yes.
Many search engines understand questions such as:
How do I boil eggs?
or
What causes rainbows?
Ask yourself:
Is the information current?
Does the website clearly identify who created it?
Does it seem professional and well organized?
Do other trusted websites provide similar information?
If several reliable websites agree, the information is generally more trustworthy.
Use simple, descriptive words.
If your first search doesn’t help, try different wording.
Read more than one website for important information.
Be cautious of sensational headlines or websites that make unbelievable claims.
Searching the Internet is a skill that improves with practice. Don’t worry if you don’t find the perfect answer on your first try. Even experienced computer users often perform several searches before finding exactly what they’re looking for. The more you practice, the easier it becomes to find reliable information quickly.
Passwords help protect your personal information and online accounts. They are like the keys to your home—only the people you trust should have access to them.
Using strong passwords and managing them carefully is one of the best ways to keep your personal information safe online.
A password is a secret word or combination of letters, numbers, and symbols that proves you are the owner of an account.
You may have passwords for:
Your email
Online banking
Shopping websites
Social media
Your computer
Your smartphone
Streaming services
Every password should be kept private.
Weak passwords are much easier for criminals to guess.
A strong password helps protect:
Your personal information
Your money
Your photos
Your email
Your online accounts
Even if you’ve never experienced a security problem, using strong passwords is an important habit.
A good password should:
Be at least 12 characters long.
Include uppercase and lowercase letters.
Include numbers.
Include special characters such as ! @ # $ % & ? if allowed.
For example:
Instead of:
john123
Choose something like:
Sunny!River82Garden
Longer passwords are generally much stronger than shorter ones.
Do not use:
Your name
Your birthday
Your phone number
Your address
The word “password”
Simple patterns like:
123456
or
qwerty
These are among the first passwords criminals try.
One of the most important security habits is not reusing passwords.
Imagine you use the same house key for every building you own.
If someone copies that key, they can unlock every door.
The same idea applies to passwords.
If one website is hacked and you used that same password elsewhere, someone may be able to access your other accounts.
Using a different password for each important account greatly improves your security.
Many people have trouble remembering dozens of passwords.
If you choose to write them down:
Keep the list in a safe place at home.
Don’t carry it in your wallet.
Don’t leave it sitting beside your computer.
Never share it with people you don’t trust.
For many beginners, a securely stored written list at home is often safer than choosing weak, easy-to-guess passwords.
A password manager is a secure program that stores your passwords for you.
Instead of remembering dozens of passwords, you only need to remember one strong master password.
Many password managers can also:
Create strong passwords automatically.
Fill them in for you.
Warn you if one of your passwords has been exposed in a known data breach.
If you use a password manager, be sure to protect it with a very strong master password that you can remember.
Legitimate companies will almost never ask you for your password by:
Text message
Phone call
If someone asks for your password unexpectedly, it’s almost always a scam.
You should change your password if:
You think someone else knows it.
You accidentally shared it.
You entered it on a suspicious website.
A company tells you your account may have been affected by a data breach.
When creating the new password, don’t simply change one letter or add a number to the end. Choose a completely new password.
Many websites offer an extra layer of protection called Two-Factor Authentication, often shortened to 2FA.
After entering your password, you’ll also be asked to confirm your identity using something you have, such as:
A code sent to your phone.
An authentication app.
A security key.
Even if someone learns your password, they usually won’t be able to sign in without this second step.
Whenever it’s available, enabling 2FA is highly recommended.
Most websites have a Forgot Password? link.
Follow the instructions to reset your password.
You may receive a code by email or text message to verify your identity.
No.
Using unique passwords for your important accounts helps protect you if one account is ever compromised.
You don’t need to change your passwords on a regular schedule if they’re already strong and unique.
However, change them immediately if you believe they’ve been exposed or if a trusted company notifies you of a security breach affecting your account.
Yes.
Many modern web browsers offer to save your passwords.
This can be convenient, especially if your computer is protected with a strong password and only trusted people use it.
Use long, unique passwords for every important account.
Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.
Never share your passwords through email, text message, or over the phone.
Be cautious of websites or messages asking for your password unexpectedly.
If something seems suspicious, stop and verify it before signing in.
A strong password is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect yourself online. It may take a little extra time to create and manage good passwords, but that small effort can help protect your personal information, your finances, and your peace of mind for years to come.
Many businesses, government agencies, schools, healthcare providers, and other organizations now ask people to complete forms online instead of using paper.
Learning how to fill out an online form is an important computer skill. Once you understand the basics, you’ll be able to complete many different types of forms with confidence.
An online form is a webpage where you enter information by typing, clicking buttons, or selecting options.
You may use online forms to:
Schedule appointments
Register for events
Apply for a job
Request information
Pay bills
Place an order
Contact a business
Complete school paperwork
Fill out government forms
Although every form looks a little different, most work in a similar way.
Have any information you might need nearby, such as:
Your full name
Address
Phone number
Email address
Date of birth
Account number (if applicable)
Any documents the form asks you to upload
Reading through the form before you begin can help you know what information you’ll need.
Click the link to the form.
It may open in your web browser automatically.
Take a moment to read any instructions at the top of the page before you begin.
When you see an empty box, click inside it.
A blinking cursor will appear.
This means the form is ready for you to type.
Type the requested information carefully.
For example:
First Name
Last Name
Street Address
City
State
ZIP Code
Phone Number
Email Address
Take your time and check for typing mistakes.
Some forms ask you to choose from a list.
You may see:
A drop-down menu
Checkboxes
Radio buttons (small circles)
Click the option that best matches your answer.
Some questions are marked with a small red asterisk (*).
This usually means the question is required.
You won’t be able to submit the form until all required questions have been completed.
Some forms ask you to attach a document or photo.
Look for a button that says something like:
Upload
Choose File
Browse
Select File
Click the button.
Find the file on your computer or phone.
Select it.
Then click Open.
The file will be attached to the form.
Before submitting the form:
Take a few moments to review everything you’ve entered.
Check:
Spelling
Phone numbers
Email addresses
Dates
Uploaded files
Correct any mistakes before continuing.
When you’re finished:
Click the button that says:
Submit
Send
Continue
Finish
Complete
Your information will be sent to the organization.
Many websites display a message such as:
Thank you!
or
Your form has been submitted successfully.
Some organizations also send a confirmation email.
If you don’t see a confirmation, the form may not have been submitted successfully.
Make sure you’ve clicked inside the correct box.
If it still doesn’t work, try refreshing the page or using a different web browser.
Look for a highlighted box or a message explaining what’s missing.
Complete the required information, then try submitting the form again.
Most forms allow you to click back into a box and correct the information before submitting.
Some online forms allow you to save your progress, but many do not.
If there’s no Save button, it’s usually best to complete the form in one sitting.
Only if you’re confident you’re using a legitimate website.
Before entering sensitive information, make sure:
The website address begins with https://
A small padlock icon appears near the website address in your browser
You trust the organization requesting the information
If something seems unusual, stop and verify that you’re on the correct website.
Read every question carefully before answering.
Don’t rush.
Double-check important information like your email address and phone number.
Save or print a confirmation page if it’s important.
Keep any confirmation emails you receive.
Think of an online form just like a paper form. The main difference is that instead of writing with a pen, you’re typing on a keyboard or tapping on a screen. Taking your time and reviewing your answers before clicking Submit can help prevent mistakes and save you time later.
Downloading a file means saving a copy of something from the Internet to your computer, smartphone, or tablet. You might download a document, a photo, a music file, a software program, or a PDF.
Downloading files is something most people do regularly, but it’s important to know how to do it safely. Not every file on the Internet can be trusted.
Think of the Internet as a giant library.
When you download a file, you’re making your own copy and saving it on your device.
Once it’s downloaded, you can usually open it even if you’re no longer connected to the Internet.
People commonly download:
PDF documents
Photos
Recipes
School assignments
Tax forms
Travel itineraries
User manuals
Music
Videos
Software updates
Ask yourself these questions:
Do I know where this file came from?
Do I trust the website?
Was I expecting this download?
Does downloading this file make sense?
If the answer to any of these questions is “No,” stop and investigate before downloading.
On a website, look for a button or link that says something like:
Download
Download PDF
Save
Get File
Download Now
Some buttons may also use a downward-pointing arrow.
Click the correct download button only once.
Your device may:
Save the file automatically.
Ask where you’d like to save it.
Many computers save downloads in a folder called Downloads by default.
If you’re given a choice, save the file somewhere you’ll remember.
Larger files may take several minutes to download.
Avoid closing your browser until the download is complete.
After the download finishes:
You can usually:
Click the downloaded file from your browser.
Open your Downloads folder and double-click the file.
If the file doesn’t open, you may need the correct program to view it.
Whenever possible, download files only from:
Official company websites
Government websites
Schools and universities
Trusted organizations
Well-known businesses
Avoid downloading files from unfamiliar websites that seem suspicious or contain many pop-up advertisements.
Some websites display advertisements that look like download buttons.
Before clicking:
Read the button carefully.
Make sure it’s associated with the file you actually want.
If several “Download” buttons appear, pause and look closely before choosing one.
If you’re unsure, don’t click.
If a website suddenly begins downloading a file you didn’t request:
Don’t open it.
Delete it if you don’t recognize it.
Close the website.
Unexpected downloads can sometimes be a sign of an unsafe website.
Modern computers often scan downloaded files automatically.
If you have antivirus software installed, it may check new downloads for known threats before you open them.
Keeping your computer’s security software up to date provides additional protection.
Here are some common file types you may see:
Usually documents, forms, manuals, or brochures.
Photographs and images.
Images and graphics.
Documents you can edit.
Spreadsheets and tables.
A compressed folder that contains one or more files.
You may need to extract the files before using them.
These files install software.
Only download and run software installers from companies or organizations you trust.
Most computers save downloaded files in the Downloads folder.
You can also use your computer’s search feature to search for the file name.
No.
Some files contain harmful software.
That’s why it’s important to download only from trusted websites and organizations.
Yes.
Once you no longer need a downloaded file, you can delete it just like any other file.
You may need the correct program to open that type of file.
For example:
PDF files usually require a PDF reader.
Word documents open with a word processing program.
Photos open in your device’s photo viewer.
Download files only from websites you know and trust.
Keep your computer and antivirus software updated.
Delete downloads you no longer need to help keep your device organized.
If a download doesn’t seem right, stop and ask someone you trust before opening it.
One of the simplest ways to stay safe online is to remember this rule:
If you weren’t expecting the download, don’t open it.
Taking a few extra seconds to make sure a file comes from a trusted source can help protect your computer, your personal information, and your peace of mind.
The Internet is full of useful information, but not every website is accurate, safe, or honest. Learning how to recognize trustworthy websites can help protect your personal information and ensure you find reliable answers to your questions.
Whether you’re reading the news, shopping online, researching a medical condition, or paying a bill, it’s important to know how to decide if a website deserves your trust.
A trustworthy website is one that:
Clearly identifies who created it.
Provides accurate and up-to-date information.
Protects your personal information.
Does not try to mislead or trick visitors.
No website is perfect, but many reliable websites share these characteristics.
The website address (also called the URL) appears at the top of your web browser.
Before entering personal information, look for:
https:// at the beginning of the address.
A small padlock icon near the address.
These indicate that the connection between your device and the website is encrypted, helping to protect your information while it is being transmitted.
Keep in mind that a secure connection does not guarantee the website itself is trustworthy. It simply means the connection is secure.
Take a close look at the website’s address.
Scammers sometimes create addresses that look very similar to legitimate websites.
For example:
A trusted company may use:
companyname.com
A scammer might create something like:
company-name-support.com
companyname-login.net
companyname123.org
Even a small difference can be important.
The ending of a website address can provide clues about who operates it.
Some common endings include:
.gov — Government agencies
.edu — Colleges and universities
.org — Many nonprofit organizations
.com — Businesses and commercial organizations
While these endings can be helpful, they are not guarantees. Always consider the overall quality and purpose of the website as well.
Look for pages such as:
About Us
Contact Us
Our Organization
A trustworthy website usually tells you:
Who owns the website.
What the organization does.
How to contact them.
If you cannot determine who operates the website, be cautious.
Some information changes over time.
Look for:
Publication dates
Last updated dates
This is especially important for topics such as:
Medical advice
Tax information
Laws
Technology
Travel information
More recent information is often more reliable for these subjects.
Don’t rely on just one website for important information.
If several respected organizations provide similar information, you can generally have greater confidence that it is accurate.
This is especially important for:
Medical information
Financial decisions
Legal questions
Major purchases
Be cautious if a website:
Makes unbelievable promises.
Claims to have a “secret” that no one else knows.
Uses excessive pop-up advertisements.
Pressures you to act immediately.
Contains many spelling or grammar mistakes.
Requests personal information that doesn’t seem necessary.
One warning sign alone doesn’t always mean a website is unsafe, but several warning signs together should make you more cautious.
Before making a purchase:
Verify that the website uses https://.
Look for clear contact information.
Read the return or refund policy.
Be cautious of prices that seem unbelievably low.
Make sure the checkout page appears professional and secure.
If something feels suspicious, it’s often best to shop somewhere else.
Health information should come from reliable sources such as:
Government health agencies.
Hospitals.
Medical schools.
Well-known healthcare organizations.
Avoid relying on websites that promise miracle cures or claim that one product can treat many unrelated illnesses.
If you have medical concerns, consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Some websites use dramatic headlines to encourage people to click.
Examples might include:
“Doctors Don’t Want You to Know This!”
“One Simple Trick Changes Everything!”
“You’ll Never Believe What Happened Next!”
These headlines often exaggerate or oversimplify the information.
Whenever possible, read beyond the headline and verify the information with other trusted sources.
Not necessarily.
The padlock means your connection to the website is secure, but it does not guarantee that the website itself is honest or accurate.
No.
Anyone can create a website and publish information online.
That’s why it’s important to evaluate the source before trusting what you read.
Not always.
Some search results are advertisements, while others appear first because of search engine rankings.
Read carefully before deciding which website to visit.
If something doesn’t seem right:
Don’t enter personal information.
Don’t make a purchase.
Compare the information with other trusted websites.
Ask someone you trust if you’re uncertain.
Read carefully before trusting information.
Compare important information across multiple reliable websites.
Be cautious of extraordinary claims or urgent messages.
Verify the organization behind the website.
Take your time before entering personal or financial information.
The best protection against misleading websites is patience. Trustworthy websites don’t usually pressure you to act immediately. If something seems too good to be true, feels rushed, or doesn’t look professional, pause and investigate before continuing. Taking a few extra minutes to verify a website can help protect both your personal information and your peace of mind.
Learn how to:
Avoid common scams
Protect personal information
Recognize fraudulent emails and text messages
Secure your devices
Create strong passwords
The Internet has made it easier than ever to communicate, shop, manage finances, and access important services. Unfortunately, scammers also use technology to trick people into giving away money, personal information, passwords, or access to their devices.
The good news is that most scams share common warning signs. Learning to recognize those signs can help protect you and your loved ones.
When something feels urgent, frightening, or too good to be true, stop and verify before taking action.
Scammers often rely on fear, confusion, and pressure to prevent people from thinking clearly.
Be cautious if someone:
Demands immediate action
Requests payment using gift cards
Asks for passwords
Asks for bank account information
Claims your computer is infected
Threatens arrest or legal action
Promises free money or prizes
Requests remote access to your computer
Pressures you to keep the conversation secret
You may see a message such as:
“WARNING! Your computer is infected!”
or
“Call Microsoft immediately!”
These messages are usually fraudulent.
Microsoft does not randomly call people about computer problems.
Apple does not randomly call people about computer problems.
Legitimate companies do not demand payment through gift cards.
Close the browser window.
Do not call the number.
Do not allow remote access to your computer.
A caller may claim to represent:
Social Security
The IRS
Medicare
Law enforcement
They may threaten:
Arrest
Loss of benefits
Fines
Legal action
Government agencies do not typically demand immediate payment over the phone.
Hang up and contact the agency directly using a trusted phone number found on its official website.
A scammer may claim:
“Your grandson is in jail.”
or
“A family member needs money immediately.”
Sometimes scammers use information gathered from social media.
Contact the family member directly before sending money.
Never rely solely on the caller’s story.
Examples:
“You won $50,000!”
“You’ve been selected for a special prize!”
If you are asked to pay money before receiving a prize, it is almost certainly a scam.
Legitimate prizes do not require you to pay fees in advance.
Phishing emails attempt to steal:
Passwords
Credit card information
Banking information
They often appear to come from:
Banks
Delivery companies
Technology companies
Government agencies
Poor grammar
Misspellings
Strange links
Unexpected attachments
Requests for sensitive information
Do not click suspicious links.
Visit the company’s website directly instead.
Scammers create fake online relationships and eventually request money.
Common excuses include:
Medical emergencies
Travel expenses
Business problems
Refusal to meet in person
Requests for money
Constant excuses
Requests to keep the relationship secret
No legitimate organization requires payment through:
Apple gift cards
Google Play cards
Steam cards
Retail gift cards
If someone requests payment using gift cards, it is almost certainly a scam.
Never share passwords through:
Text messages
Phone calls
Use unique passwords for important accounts.
Consider using a password manager if you are comfortable doing so.
Be careful when sharing:
Social Security numbers
Bank account numbers
Credit card information
Birth dates
Account passwords
Only provide sensitive information when you are certain you are dealing with a legitimate organization.
When in doubt:
Stop.
Do not send money.
Do not click links.
Do not provide passwords.
Contact a trusted family member, friend, or technology professional.
A few minutes of caution can prevent significant financial loss.
Yes.
Scammers target people of all ages, education levels, and backgrounds.
Change your passwords immediately and monitor your accounts for unusual activity.
Contact your bank, credit card company, or financial institution as soon as possible.
Scammers want you to act quickly.
Legitimate organizations generally allow you time to verify information and make informed decisions.
Whenever someone demands immediate action:
Slow down. Verify. Then proceed.
Every time you use the Internet, you may be asked to share personal information. While many websites and organizations have legitimate reasons for requesting certain details, it’s important to know when it’s appropriate to share information—and when it isn’t.
Learning how to protect your personal information is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of identity theft, fraud, and online scams.
Personal information is any information that can identify you or be used to access your accounts.
Examples include:
Your full name
Home address
Phone number
Email address
Date of birth
Driver’s license number
Social Security number
Bank account information
Credit or debit card numbers
Passwords
Security question answers
Some information is more sensitive than others, but all personal information should be shared carefully.
Before entering personal information online, ask yourself:
Why is this information being requested?
Does the organization truly need it?
Do I trust this website?
Many websites only need basic information, such as your name and email address.
If a website asks for information that seems unnecessary, consider whether you really want to continue.
Whenever you’re entering personal or financial information:
Make sure the website address begins with https://.
Look for the padlock icon in your browser.
Confirm you’re on the correct website.
Be especially careful if you arrived at the website by clicking a link in an email or text message. When possible, type the organization’s web address yourself or use a trusted bookmark.
Your passwords help keep your accounts secure.
Remember to:
Use strong, unique passwords.
Never share your passwords with others.
Avoid writing passwords where others can easily find them.
Consider using a password manager to securely store them.
If you think someone else knows your password, change it as soon as possible.
Public Wi-Fi networks, such as those in coffee shops, airports, hotels, or libraries, are convenient but may be less secure than your home network.
When using public Wi-Fi:
Avoid online banking if possible.
Avoid entering sensitive personal information unless necessary.
Log out of important accounts when you’re finished.
If you frequently use public Wi-Fi, consider learning about additional security options such as a virtual private network (VPN).
Information you post online may be visible to many people.
Avoid sharing details such as:
Your full home address
Financial information
Vacation plans while you’re away
Copies of identification documents
Passwords or account information
Even information that seems harmless can sometimes be combined with other details to learn more about you.
Scammers often pretend to be:
Banks
Government agencies
Delivery companies
Utility companies
Technology support
Family members or friends
They may ask you to:
Verify your account.
Confirm your password.
Send money.
Provide personal information.
Take your time and verify the request before responding.
Software updates often include important security improvements.
Whenever possible:
Install updates for your computer.
Update your smartphone or tablet.
Keep your web browser current.
Update your antivirus software, if you use one.
These updates help protect your devices from newly discovered security risks.
Use a passcode, password, fingerprint, or facial recognition to lock your device.
This helps protect your information if your device is lost or stolen.
Choose a lock method that’s both secure and easy for you to use regularly.
Never click links or open attachments from unexpected messages without first verifying that they’re legitimate.
Be especially cautious if a message:
Creates a sense of urgency.
Asks for personal information.
Claims your account will be closed immediately.
Offers prizes or rewards you weren’t expecting.
When in doubt, contact the organization using a phone number or website you know is genuine.
Protecting your personal information isn’t just about computers.
Before throwing away papers that contain sensitive information, consider shredding them.
Examples include:
Bank statements
Credit card offers
Medical records
Tax documents
Bills with account numbers
Properly disposing of these documents helps reduce the risk of identity theft.
Usually, yes, if you’re dealing with a trusted organization.
However, remember that sharing your email address may result in newsletters or promotional emails.
Only when it’s truly necessary and you’re certain you’re dealing with a legitimate, secure organization.
Many websites do not need your Social Security number.
Act quickly.
Depending on what information was shared, you may need to:
Change your password.
Contact your bank or credit card company.
Monitor your accounts for unusual activity.
Notify the organization involved if appropriate.
Taking prompt action can help reduce potential problems.
Many reputable retailers offer this option for convenience.
If you choose to save your payment information, make sure your account is protected with a strong password and, if available, two-factor authentication.
Share only the information that’s necessary.
Verify websites before entering personal information.
Use strong, unique passwords.
Keep your devices updated.
Think carefully before responding to unexpected requests for personal information.
One of the simplest ways to protect yourself online is to pause before you share. Whenever a website, email, or phone call asks for personal information, take a moment to ask yourself whether the request makes sense and whether you trust the person or organization asking. A few extra seconds of caution can help protect your identity, finances, and privacy.
Every day, millions of fraudulent emails and text messages are sent to people around the world. These messages are designed to trick you into sharing personal information, clicking dangerous links, downloading harmful files, or sending money.
Fortunately, many scams share the same warning signs. Learning to recognize them can help you protect your personal information, finances, and online accounts.
A fraudulent email or text message is a message that pretends to come from a trusted person or organization but is actually sent by a scammer.
The message may claim to be from:
Your bank
A government agency
A delivery company
A credit card company
A technology company
A utility provider
A family member or friend
The goal is usually to convince you to act before you’ve had time to think.
Many scam messages contain one or more of these warning signs:
They create a sense of urgency.
They ask for personal information.
They ask for passwords or verification codes.
They contain spelling or grammar mistakes.
They ask you to click a link immediately.
They promise prizes, rewards, or free gifts.
They ask for payment using gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
If you notice several of these warning signs, treat the message with caution.
Ask yourself:
Was I expecting this message?
Do I recognize the sender?
Does this request make sense?
Even if the message appears to come from someone you know, their account could have been compromised.
If you’re unsure, contact the person or company using a phone number or website you already know is legitimate.
Scammers often try to make you panic.
Examples include:
“Your account will be closed today!”
“Immediate action required!”
“Your package cannot be delivered!”
“Suspicious activity detected!”
“You have won a prize!”
Legitimate organizations usually give you time to resolve issues and rarely demand immediate action through an unexpected email or text.
Legitimate organizations generally will not ask you to send sensitive information by email or text message.
Be extremely cautious if you’re asked for:
Passwords
Verification codes
Social Security numbers
Bank account numbers
Credit card information
PIN numbers
If you receive this type of request, contact the organization directly using contact information from its official website or the back of your bank card.
Many scam messages contain links that lead to fake websites.
Before clicking:
Read the message carefully.
Ask yourself whether the link is expected.
If possible, visit the company’s website by typing its address into your browser instead of clicking the link.
This simple habit can help you avoid many online scams.
Never open an attachment unless:
You were expecting it.
You know who sent it.
You’re confident it’s legitimate.
Unexpected attachments may contain harmful software that can damage your device or steal information.
Some scam messages contain:
Misspelled words
Poor grammar
Awkward wording
Strange formatting
Low-quality logos or images
While scammers are becoming more sophisticated, these mistakes can still be important warning signs.
These messages claim there is a problem delivering a package and ask you to click a link.
If you’re unsure, visit the delivery company’s official website instead of clicking the message.
These messages claim there’s a problem with your account.
Rather than clicking the provided link, sign in using your bank’s official website or mobile app.
Scammers sometimes pretend to represent government agencies.
Government agencies generally do not demand immediate payment or threaten arrest through an unexpected email or text message.
These messages claim your computer has a virus or security problem.
They may encourage you to call a phone number or download software.
If you’re concerned, contact the company directly using its official support website.
If a friend suddenly asks for money, gift cards, or verification codes, contact them another way before responding.
Their account may have been compromised.
If you receive a suspicious email or text message:
Stay calm.
Don’t click any links.
Don’t open attachments.
Don’t reply to the message.
Verify the request by contacting the organization directly.
Delete the message if it’s clearly fraudulent.
Report the message if your email provider or phone offers a reporting option.
Don’t panic.
Take these steps:
Close the suspicious webpage.
Don’t enter any personal information.
Run a security scan if you downloaded anything.
Change your password if you entered it on a suspicious website.
Contact your bank or credit card company if you shared financial information.
Acting quickly can help reduce the risk of further problems.
Yes.
Scammers can sometimes make messages appear to come from familiar names or organizations.
That’s why it’s important to verify unexpected requests independently.
No.
Scammers use both emails and text messages to try to trick people.
The same safety rules apply to both.
When in doubt, don’t interact with the message.
Instead, contact the company directly using a trusted phone number or website that you find yourself—not one provided in the suspicious message.
Yes.
If you’re uncertain about a message, it’s usually safer to ignore it until you’ve verified that it’s legitimate.
Slow down and read messages carefully.
Be suspicious of unexpected requests for money or personal information.
Avoid clicking links in unexpected emails or text messages.
Verify requests by contacting the organization directly.
Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, investigate before responding.
Scammers rely on people reacting quickly without thinking. One of the best ways to protect yourself is to pause before you click. Taking just a minute to verify an unexpected email or text message can help prevent identity theft, financial loss, and other online scams.
Your computer, smartphone, and tablet contain valuable information such as your photos, emails, passwords, financial information, and personal documents. Keeping your devices secure helps protect both your information and your privacy.
Fortunately, you don’t need to be a technology expert to improve your device’s security. A few simple habits can make a big difference.
If a device is lost, stolen, or infected with harmful software, someone else may be able to access your personal information.
Securing your devices helps protect:
Personal documents
Photos and videos
Email accounts
Online banking
Shopping accounts
Passwords
Family information
Good security habits can reduce the risk of identity theft and online fraud.
Always use a screen lock on your devices.
Depending on your device, you can use:
A password
A PIN (Personal Identification Number)
A fingerprint
Facial recognition
A screen lock helps prevent unauthorized access if your device is lost or left unattended.
Choose a PIN or password that is difficult for others to guess. Avoid using simple combinations such as your birthday or “1234.”
Software updates often include important security improvements that protect against newly discovered threats.
Whenever possible:
Install updates for your operating system.
Update your web browser.
Update your apps.
Update your antivirus software, if you use one.
Many devices allow you to turn on automatic updates so you don’t have to remember to install them yourself.
Only install apps from trusted sources.
For example:
The Apple App Store
Google Play Store
Microsoft Store
Before installing an app:
Read its description.
Check user reviews.
Make sure it comes from the correct developer.
Avoid downloading apps from unfamiliar websites unless you have a specific reason and trust the source.
Every important account should have a strong, unique password.
Remember to:
Use different passwords for different accounts.
Choose long passwords that are difficult to guess.
Consider using a password manager to keep track of them securely.
Strong passwords are one of the easiest ways to improve your online security.
Many websites and apps offer Two-Factor Authentication (2FA).
With 2FA enabled, you’ll usually enter:
Your password.
A second verification step, such as a code sent to your phone or generated by an authentication app.
This extra step makes it much more difficult for someone else to access your accounts, even if they know your password.
Your home Wi-Fi network should be protected with a strong password.
When using public Wi-Fi:
Avoid accessing sensitive accounts if possible.
Avoid entering financial information unless necessary.
Log out of important accounts when you’re finished.
If you frequently use public Wi-Fi, you may want to learn about additional privacy tools, such as a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
Many security problems begin with a fraudulent email or text message.
Never:
Click unexpected links.
Open unexpected attachments.
Share passwords through email or text.
If a message seems suspicious, contact the organization using a trusted phone number or website instead of replying.
Share personal information only when it’s necessary and only with organizations you trust.
Before entering personal or financial information online:
Verify the website address.
Make sure the address begins with https://.
Look for the padlock icon in your web browser.
These steps help protect your information while it’s being transmitted.
A backup is a copy of your important files.
Backing up your information protects you if your device is:
Lost
Stolen
Damaged
Infected with harmful software
Many people use:
An external hard drive
A USB flash drive
A trusted cloud storage service
Regular backups can save countless hours of frustration if something unexpected happens.
Many people leave their devices running for days or even weeks.
Restarting your computer, smartphone, or tablet regularly can:
Complete software updates.
Improve performance.
Fix minor software problems.
Help security updates finish installing.
Restarting your device once every week or so is a good habit for many users.
If you’re using your device in a public place:
Lock it before walking away.
Keep it with you whenever possible.
Avoid leaving it unattended in vehicles or public areas.
Physical security is just as important as online security.
Yes.
Even if you don’t think your phone contains important information, it likely has access to your email, contacts, photos, and online accounts.
Yes.
Updates often fix security weaknesses that criminals may try to exploit.
Installing updates promptly is one of the simplest ways to protect your device.
In most cases, yes.
Automatic updates help ensure your device receives important security improvements as soon as they’re available.
If possible:
Use your device’s built-in “Find My Device” or “Find My” feature.
Change passwords for important accounts if you believe someone may access the device.
Contact your mobile carrier if your smartphone has been stolen.
Taking quick action can help protect your information.
Lock your devices whenever you’re not using them.
Keep software and apps up to date.
Install apps only from trusted sources.
Back up important files regularly.
Stay alert for suspicious emails, text messages, and websites.
Think of your devices like the front door to your home. Locking them, keeping them updated, and being careful about who and what you allow inside are simple habits that can greatly improve your security. A few minutes spent protecting your devices today can help prevent much bigger problems in the future.
Your passwords are the first line of defense for your online accounts. They help protect your email, bank accounts, shopping websites, social media, photos, and personal information from unauthorized access.
A strong password is much harder for criminals to guess or crack than a weak one. Fortunately, creating strong passwords is easier than you might think.
A strong password is one that is:
Long
Unique
Difficult for someone else to guess
Easy enough for you to remember
The stronger your password is, the more difficult it is for someone to gain access to your account.
If someone discovers your password, they may be able to:
Read your emails
Access your financial accounts
Make purchases using your saved payment methods
View your personal photos and documents
Pretend to be you online
Using strong passwords greatly reduces these risks.
One of the best ways to strengthen a password is to make it longer.
Aim for at least 12 characters whenever possible.
Long passwords are generally much more secure than short ones.
A strong password usually includes a combination of:
Uppercase letters (A–Z)
Lowercase letters (a–z)
Numbers (0–9)
Special characters such as:
!
@
$
%
&
?
Many websites will tell you their password requirements when you create an account.
Do not use information that other people may know about you, such as:
Your name
Your birthday
Your children’s names
Your pet’s name
Your phone number
Your address
Also avoid common passwords like:
password
123456
qwerty
abc123
These are among the first passwords that criminals try.
Instead of a single word, use a passphrase.
A passphrase is a short sentence or a combination of unrelated words that is easy for you to remember but difficult for others to guess.
For example:
Instead of:
Mountain12
You could use something like:
Blue!River7Coffee!Train
Avoid using famous quotes or common sayings.
Each important account should have its own password.
Imagine using the same key for your house, your car, your office, and your mailbox.
If someone copies that one key, they can unlock everything.
The same idea applies to passwords.
If one website experiences a security breach and you’ve reused that password elsewhere, your other accounts could also be at risk.
Keep your passwords private.
Legitimate companies will almost never ask you to provide your password by:
Text message
Phone call
If someone unexpectedly asks for your password, it’s almost certainly a scam.
Remembering dozens of strong passwords can be difficult.
A password manager is a secure application that stores your passwords in an encrypted vault.
Many password managers can also:
Create strong passwords automatically.
Save your passwords securely.
Fill them in when you visit websites.
Alert you if one of your passwords has been involved in a known data breach.
With a password manager, you only need to remember one strong master password.
Whenever available, turn on Two-Factor Authentication (2FA).
With 2FA enabled, signing in usually requires:
Your password.
A second verification step, such as a code sent to your phone or generated by an authentication app.
Even if someone discovers your password, they usually won’t be able to access your account without that second verification.
Most websites provide a Forgot Password? link.
Follow the instructions to reset your password using your email address, phone number, or another verification method.
Yes, if you store them safely.
Keep any written password list:
In a secure place at home.
Away from your computer.
Out of sight of visitors.
For many people, a securely stored written list is safer than using weak, easy-to-remember passwords.
If your password is already strong and unique, you generally don’t need to change it on a regular schedule.
However, change it immediately if:
You think someone else knows it.
You accidentally shared it.
A trusted company tells you your account may have been affected by a security breach.
Many modern web browsers can securely save passwords for you.
If your computer is protected with a strong login password and only trusted people use it, this can be a convenient option.
Make your passwords long and unique.
Never reuse important passwords.
Turn on two-factor authentication whenever it’s available.
Never share your passwords through email, text message, or over the phone.
Consider using a password manager to help organize your passwords securely.
A strong password doesn’t have to be impossible to remember—it simply needs to be difficult for someone else to guess. By using long, unique passwords and protecting them carefully, you’ll greatly reduce the chances of someone gaining unauthorized access to your personal information and online accounts.
Need more help?
If you would like one-on-one assistance with a computer, smartphone, tablet, printer, email account, online service, or other technology-related issue, personalized support may be available.
Contact us to learn more about available assistance options.