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Three unattended minutes is enough to send email as you, install a keylogger, or copy files. On public computers, assume you are already compromised.
Lock when you leave
Make screen-lock a reflex. On Windows, Win+L. On Mac, Ctrl+Cmd+Q. Set the screen to auto-lock after a short idle time.
- Lock your screen every single time you stand up.
- Auto-lock after 5 minutes of inactivity or less.
- Require a password (not just a swipe) to unlock.
Public computers = casual browsing only
Hotel business centers and cybercafé PCs may have keyloggers or MalwareWhat it means: Software designed to damage, spy on, disrupt, or gain unauthorized access to a device.Example: A “free video player” download that quietly installs something else.What to do: Install apps only from official stores and keep automatic updates switched on.Important: Pop-ups warning that your device is infected are usually the scam itself.What does this mean?. Never sign in to email, banking, or work systems from them.
- Never enter passwords on a public computer.
- Use your phone with cellular data for sensitive tasks instead.
- Always sign out and close the browser when you finish.
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Unfamiliar term? Open the Digital Safety Glossary