Cyber Security Awareness Month may have wrapped up in October, but its message matters all year long. Good digital cyber safety habits aren’t seasonal—they help protect your information, your devices, and your peace of mind every day. This year’s Canadian theme, “Get cyber safe – for future you,” highlights how small actions today can prevent big problems tomorrow.
Cybersecurity isn’t just for experts. Anyone using a phone, laptop, or tablet can take simple steps that make online life safer—whether that means keeping track of passwords, securing family devices, or avoiding online scams.
Why Cyber Security Matters for Everyday Life
Staying cyber safe is more than avoiding scams—it’s about keeping your digital life running smoothly.
Strong cyber habits help you:
- Protect personal information (photos, documents, schoolwork)
- Prevent identity theft
- Reduce the risk of hacked accounts
- Keep devices running safely and efficiently
- Feel confident using technology every day
Burnaby is a connected, tech-savvy community. Whether you’re using online banking, applying for jobs, streaming shows, or helping kids navigate school apps, cybersecurity supports your ability to stay safe and informed.
Taking just a few minutes to update a device, review a password, or back up your files today can save hours of frustration later. Cyber safety is long-term self-care.
3 Everyday Cyber Habits “Future You” Will Appreciate
1. Use a Password Manager
Reusing the same password across multiple accounts is one of the biggest online risks—but it’s also one of the easiest to fix.
Using a password manager, which:
- Stores all passwords securely
- Creates strong, unique passwords
- Saves time when logging in
- Helps you recover accounts more easily
Future you will be grateful that you didn’t have to remember 30 different passwords.
2. Back Up Your Files Automatically
Losing files is stressful—whether it’s tax documents, project files, or your favourite photos.
Doing regular backups (In Cloud services or in external hard drives):
- Keep your files safe during device failures
- Help you recover quickly from malware or hacking
- Reduce the risk of losing school assignments or work documents
Think of backups as an emergency plan for your digital life.
3. Keep Your Devices Updated
Updates may feel inconvenient, but they are one of the strongest defences against online threats.
Updating your devices:
- Fixes security vulnerabilities
- Improves performance
- Helps prevent viruses and malware
- Keeps apps working smoothly
Tip: Turn on automatic updates so your devices stay protected without extra effort.
Cyber Safety Tips for Families
Cyber safety is a family responsibility, and online threats can affect people of all ages. Children and teens spend more time online than ever—learning, gaming, and communicating—so helping them build healthy digital habits is important.
For children and teens:
- Talk about creating safe passwords
- Review privacy settings together
- Teach them how to spot suspicious messages
- Set device rules as a family
- Use parental controls or safe search tools
- Enable two-factor authentication
Encouraging these habits early helps young people stay confident and responsible online.
For seniors:
Older adults are often targeted by scammers, but awareness makes a meaningful difference.
Encourage seniors to:
- Be cautious with emails requesting money or personal information
- Use strong passwords
- Avoid sharing personal details with unknown callers
- Reach out to trusted family or community members for help
Community support strengthens everyone’s online safety.
Trusted Canadian Resources for Staying Safe Online
- Get Cyber Safe (Government of Canada)
Practical checklists, tips, and digital safety guides for all ages
https://www.getcybersafe.gc.ca/en/cyber-security-awareness-month - Canadian Centre for Cyber Security
Alerts, guidance, and updates on current threats
https://www.cyber.gc.ca/ - Burnaby Public Library – Digital Literacy Resources
Workshops, classes, and tech-help programs
bpl.bc.ca
Small Steps Today Protect Your Tomorrow
Cyber security doesn’t need to be complicated. Simple habits—like using a password manager, backing up your files, and keeping your devices updated—help you build a safer digital future.
Cyber Security Awareness Month may have ended, but cyber safety is a year-round practice. Your online choices matter. With good habits and trusted resources, you can navigate the digital world with confidence and protect what matters most.
Future you will thank you.