January Cybersecurity Checklist: Simple Things Most People Forget

January cybersecurity feels different than the rest of the year. The holidays are over, routines return, and technology quietly becomes busy again.

That’s why January is the perfect time to look at the small things that protect your digital life — the ones most people forget.

1. Update Old Passwords

Many people keep the same passwords for years. Over time, those passwords end up in leaked databases.

Banking logins
Email accounts
Cloud storage
Shopping accounts

Updating even a few important ones makes a difference.

2. Turn On Two-Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds a second layer of protection. If someone gets your password, they still can’t log in.

It’s one of the simplest and most effective security tools available.

3. Review Who Has Access

Over time, people are added to accounts and systems — and never removed.

Former employees
Old contractors
Shared family logins

January is the right moment to clean up access lists.

4. Check Your Backups

A backup only helps if it’s working. Make sure:

Your backups are actually running
You know how to restore files
Critical data is included

Ransomware, device loss, and crashes happen. Backups reduce the panic.

5. Update Devices

Phones, laptops, routers, smart devices — they all need updates. Security patches close open doors hackers look for.

6. Review Wi-Fi Security

Make sure your Wi-Fi uses:

WPA2 or WPA3 encryption
A strong password
No default router logins

Home Wi-Fi is one of the top attack targets — especially for remote workers.

January Isn’t About Panic — It’s About Awareness

Cybersecurity isn’t about fear. It’s about small, calm adjustments that reduce stress later.

When your systems are organized and protected, everything else runs smoother.

How DMT IT & Cybersecurity Solutions Helps

DMT IT & Cybersecurity Solutions supports homes and small businesses across South Florida with practical guidance, not scare tactics.

Contact DMT IT & Cybersecurity Solutions if you want help reviewing your January cybersecurity checklist.

Helpful Resources

Learn More: Visit DMT IT & Cybersecurity Solutions to keep technology simple, safe, and ready for the year ahead.