Our phones and laptops are more than just devices—they hold our personal information, work data, and precious memories. Yet, did you know that over 560,000 new pieces of malware are detected daily, according to AV-Test?

With so much at stake, keeping these devices free from malicious attacks is crucial. It’s not just large corporations that are targeted either. In fact, 43% of cyberattacks are aimed at small businesses and individuals.

So how can you protect yourself?

Let us break down practical and effective ways to keep your mobile phones and laptops safe from viruses and malware:

1. Keep Your Software Up to Date

Software updates are vital for your device’s security. Often, these updates include patches for vulnerabilities that cybercriminals could exploit. Neglecting them leaves your device exposed to new malware threats.

Operating system and app updates bring enhanced security features that provide stronger defenses against malware. Enable automatic updates for your phone and laptop to ensure your devices are always equipped with the latest protection without requiring constant manual checks.

2. Install Reliable Antivirus Software

Even the most cautious internet users can encounter threats. That’s why installing a robust antivirus program is essential. Antivirus software provides an additional layer of security by actively scanning for and removing malware.

The best ones offer real-time protection, regular updates, and thorough scanning to detect viruses, ransomware, and spyware before they can do damage. Regularly run scans to catch any potential threats lurking on your device.

3. Be Wary of Suspicious Emails and Links

Phishing scams remain one of the most common methods for delivering malware. A single click on a malicious link or attachment can infect your device instantly. Cybercriminals often disguise their attacks as emails from legitimate companies, tricking users into clicking harmful content.

To avoid this, never open attachments or links from unfamiliar senders. If an email seems suspicious—even if it appears to be from a trusted source—verify its legitimacy before clicking anything.

If you are a Mac user, here are the Virus Prevention Tips for Mac Users

4. Download Apps from Trusted Sources Only

One of the easiest ways for malware to infiltrate your devices is through rogue apps. Apps downloaded from unofficial or third-party sources often carry hidden malware designed to steal data or damage your device.

Stick to official app stores like Google Play or the Apple App Store, which vet apps for security. Additionally, read reviews and check ratings before downloading any app, ensuring it has a good reputation and that others haven’t encountered any security issues.

5. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication adds an extra barrier to your online accounts, making it harder for hackers to break in. Even if someone manages to get hold of your password, they’d still need a second form of verification—such as a code sent to your phone—to access your account.

Enable 2FA on critical accounts like email, banking, and social media, and use an authenticator app like Google Authenticator for added protection. This simple step significantly increases your security.

6. Use Strong Passwords

Weak passwords are an open invitation for cybercriminals. Hackers often use brute force attacks to guess passwords, which is easy if your password is short, simple, or commonly used. Avoid passwords like “123456” or “password” and instead opt for complex combinations of letters, numbers, and symbols.

To make things easier, consider using a password manager like LastPass or Dashlane. These tools generate and store strong passwords for your accounts, keeping them secure without you needing to remember each one.

7. Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Sensitive Tasks

Public Wi-Fi networks are notorious for being vulnerable to cyberattacks. Without encryption, hackers can easily intercept your data, leaving you exposed. Avoid logging into sensitive accounts, such as banking apps or emails, when using public Wi-Fi.

If you must connect, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection and shield your data from prying eyes. VPN services create a secure tunnel for your information, adding a layer of protection on public networks.

Read More: Situations Where a VPN is Useful

8. Backup Your Data Regularly

Backing up your data regularly ensures that even if your device gets infected, you won’t lose important files. Malware like ransomware can lock you out of your own device and demand payment to regain access.

By keeping backups—whether in the cloud using services like Google Drive or on an external hard drive—you can restore your system without losing your critical data. Set up automatic backups to ensure your files are consistently safe without requiring manual intervention.

9. Check App Permissions

Many apps request unnecessary permissions that could put your data at risk. For instance, a simple game might ask for access to your contacts, location, or even your camera. Always review and limit app permissions to what’s strictly necessary for the app to function.

Apps requesting more access than they need may be exploiting your data or planting malware. Regularly audit app permissions on your phone and revoke access to apps that you no longer use or trust.

10. Use Secure Browsing Practices

Browsing habits play a major role in malware prevention. Visiting unsecured websites (those without HTTPS) or downloading files from untrusted sources can expose your device to harmful software. Always ensure the website’s URL begins with “HTTPS,” especially when entering personal or financial information.

Also, avoid clicking on pop-ups, ads, or downloading software from unofficial websites. Secure browsing habits, along with browser extensions like ad-blockers, can help reduce exposure to potential malware threats while surfing the web.

11. Monitor Your Device’s Performance

Malware can often cause erratic behavior on your devices. Unexpected slowdowns, frequent crashes, or strange pop-ups might indicate malware infection. Regularly monitor your phone or laptop’s performance to detect potential issues early.

If you notice anything unusual, immediately run an antivirus scan to check for hidden threats. Being proactive can prevent minor malware infections from escalating into more severe problems that could compromise your data or damage your device permanently.

12. Enable Firewalls

Firewalls act as a first line of defense by blocking unauthorized access to your device. Both mobile phones and laptops come with built-in firewalls, but they’re often overlooked or disabled. A firewall filters incoming and outgoing network traffic, ensuring only trusted sources can connect to your device.

Keep your device’s firewall enabled and consider using third-party firewalls for enhanced protection. Firewalls are particularly effective at preventing hackers from remotely accessing your device and installing malware.

13. Disable Bluetooth When Not in Use

Bluetooth can serve as an entry point for malware, especially in crowded public spaces where cybercriminals may try to connect to your device without your knowledge. Leaving Bluetooth on when it’s not needed can make you vulnerable to these types of attacks.

Make it a habit to turn off Bluetooth when you’re not using it, and regularly review the list of devices connected to your Bluetooth to ensure no unauthorized devices have accessed your phone or laptop.

14. Perform Factory Resets if Necessary

If your device is severely compromised by malware, and antivirus programs can’t fully remove the threat, a factory reset might be your last resort. Factory resetting wipes your device clean of all files, including any malware hiding within the system.

Before performing a reset, make sure to back up all important data. Once your device is clean, reinstall only trusted apps and restore your data from a malware-free backup to avoid reintroducing any harmful software.

15. Stay Informed

The world of cyber threats is constantly evolving. Staying informed about the latest malware tactics and cybersecurity news can help you better protect your devices. Follow tech blogs, read about cybersecurity developments, and sign up for alerts from trusted antivirus providers to stay updated on emerging threats.

The more knowledgeable you are, the better equipped you’ll be to prevent malware from infiltrating your mobile phones and laptops.

Conclusion

In today’s digital world, safeguarding your mobile phones and laptops from malware and viruses is crucial for protecting your personal data and maintaining device performance. By keeping your software updated, using strong passwords, installing antivirus software, and practicing secure browsing habits, you can significantly reduce your risk of infection.

Regular backups, app monitoring, and enabling firewalls also add layers of defense. Cyber threats are always evolving, so staying informed and cautious is key. With these proactive measures, you can ensure your devices remain secure and your online activities stay safe from malicious threats.