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100 Cybersecurity Tips for Young Teens

Key Takeaways

Why Teens Need Cyber Safety	What Risks Exist	How Teens Can Stay Safe
Teens spend hours on phones, laptops, and social media — making them easy targets.	Hacking, scams, identity theft, bullying, malware.	By following safe habits, using strong settings, and thinking before clicking, teens can enjoy the internet without fear.

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Android Phone Users (15 Tips)

1. Always lock your phone with PIN or fingerprint.
2. Download apps only from Google Play Store.
3. Never install unknown APK files.
4. Check app permissions — don’t allow apps to access contacts/camera if not needed.
5. Keep your Android OS updated.
6. Turn on “Find My Device.”
7. Use Google Play Protect to scan apps.
8. Avoid free Wi-Fi for banking apps.
9. Turn off Bluetooth when not in use.
10. Set up 2-step verification for Google account.
11. Don’t root your device — it weakens security.
12. Regularly clear app cache and unused apps.
13. Use a trusted antivirus app.
14. Don’t click random links in text messages.
15. Back up photos and data securely to Google Drive.

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iPhone / iPad Users (15 Tips)

16. Use Face ID or strong passcode.
17. Download apps only from App Store.
18. Keep iOS updated to latest version.
19. Turn on “Find My iPhone.”
20. Don’t jailbreak your device.
21. Enable “Screen Time” for privacy and app limits.
22. Check app permissions under Settings > Privacy.
23. Turn off location sharing for apps you don’t trust.
24. Use iCloud Keychain for safe password storage.
25. Be careful with AirDrop — set it to “Contacts Only.”
26. Enable two-factor authentication for Apple ID.
27. Don’t connect to untrusted chargers (“juice jacking” risk).
28. Disable Siri on lock screen for more privacy.
29. Review which apps have microphone/camera access.
30. Regularly back up to iCloud.

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Let’s continue 100 Cybersecurity Tips for Young Teens

Windows Laptop Users (15 Tips)

31. Always set a strong login password.
32. Keep Windows Update turned on.
33. Install antivirus/antimalware software.
34. Use Windows Defender Firewall.
35. Don’t download cracked/pirated software.
36. Use only trusted USB drives.
37. Turn off auto-connect for Wi-Fi networks.
38. Don’t save passwords in browsers.
39. Enable BitLocker (disk encryption).
40. Create a separate “guest account” for others.
41. Update software regularly.
42. Avoid clicking pop-up ads.
43. Back up data to an external drive or OneDrive.
44. Don’t plug unknown devices into your laptop.
45. Lock your screen when stepping away (Windows + L).

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Social Media Safety (15 Tips)

46. Keep accounts private (Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat).
47. Only accept friend requests from people you know.
48. Don’t share home address or school name.
49. Avoid posting live location.
50. Think before posting personal photos.
51. Don’t join random “giveaway” links.
52. Turn on two-factor authentication for all accounts.
53. Don’t overshare daily routines.
54. Report and block strangers who message suspiciously.
55. Never share passwords with friends.
56. Be cautious of fake accounts.
57. Don’t post exam details or ID cards.
58. Log out when using shared devices.
59. Use strong and unique usernames.
60. Read privacy policies before allowing app permissions.

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Online Gaming Safety (10 Tips)

61. Use unique gamer tags — not your real name.
62. Don’t share personal info with gaming friends.
63. Report bullying or harassment in chat.
64. Don’t click links shared in game chat.
65. Avoid downloading cheats or hacks — they carry malware.
66. Keep voice chat private with friends only.
67. Don’t use same password for gaming accounts.
68. Enable parental controls when needed.
69. Be careful of in-game purchases.
70. Don’t use unsecured mods.

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Let us move ahead with 100 Cybersecurity Tips for Young Teens

Public Wi-Fi Precautions (10 Tips)

71. Avoid logging into banking apps on public Wi-Fi.
72. Use a VPN if possible.
73. Don’t share sensitive files on public networks.
74. Turn off auto-connect for Wi-Fi.
75. Forget networks after use.
76. Don’t do online shopping on free Wi-Fi.
77. Check if hotspot name looks suspicious (fake Wi-Fi traps exist).
78. Keep file sharing and AirDrop off in public.
79. Avoid entering passwords on shared computers.
80. Log out after use.

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Passwords & Accounts (10 Tips)

81. Use long passwords with numbers, symbols, and letters.
82. Never reuse the same password across apps.
83. Change passwords regularly.
84. Don’t save passwords in browsers.
85. Use a password manager if available.
86. Never share passwords with anyone, even friends.
87. Create recovery options for accounts.
88. Use passphrases like “Sunshine&Rainbows2025!” instead of short words.
89. Check for login alerts (Google/Apple notify if new login occurs).
90. Delete old unused accounts.

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General Digital Habits (10 Tips)

91. Don’t click unknown email links.
92. Don’t download files from strangers.
93. Think before posting online — once shared, it’s forever.
94. Always log out from shared devices.
95. Don’t overshare selfies with strangers.
96. Use secure websites (https://).
97. Ask parents before signing up for new apps.
98. Talk to trusted adults if you feel unsafe online.
99. Learn to identify scam messages (“You won a prize!”).
100. Remember: If something feels wrong, it probably is.

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Conclusion

Cybersecurity is not just for adults — it’s critical for teens too. With phones, laptops, and social media at the center of teenage life, small daily habits can protect against big risks like hacking, scams, and online bullying. By practicing these 100 tips, young users can enjoy technology safely while preparing for a more digital future with Top 10 IT Skills for Students.