One of the most common “basic” technology gaps I see is not about ability. It is about security.
Many people have been told to “use strong passwords” or to “turn on two-factor authentication,” but were never shown what that actually looks like in everyday use. So, security ends up feeling intimidating instead of supportive. Here’s a clear, practical way to approach it.
Start with a Password Manager
A password manager is a secure tool that stores your passwords, so you do not have to remember them or reuse the same ones across accounts.
If you have never used one before, the most important thing to know is that you only remember one strong master password. The password manager handles the rest. Reliable, well-established options include:
1Password
Bitwarden
Proton Pass
Apple Passwords or iCloud Keychain for Apple users
These tools generate strong, unique passwords, safely autofill logins, and significantly reduce the mental load of keeping track of logins. When set up correctly, they make everyday tech security simpler, not harder.
Add Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication adds a second check when you sign in. It confirms two things:
Something you know (your password or security questions)
Something you have (your phone, app, or device)
This usually appears as a temporary code from an authenticator app or a notification confirming that you're really the one logging in. When possible, authenticator apps like Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator are more secure than text messages.
Where Biometrics Fit In
Biometrics, such as Face ID, Touch ID, or fingerprint readers, are often part of this second step. When you see prompts like:
“Use Face ID to sign in.”
“Confirm with fingerprint.”
“Approve this login on your device.”
Your device is confirming your identity in a way that is both secure and convenient. Biometrics work alongside passwords rather than replacing them, and they often make secure logins faster.
Understanding Security Prompts
Security messages can feel alarming when you are not sure what they are asking. When a site asks:
“Save this device?”
“Send a verification code?”
“Allow this app access?”
It usually checks that the request is legitimate and that you are the person initiating it.
A helpful guideline is to pay attention to timing:
If you expected the prompt or it appears immediately after something you tried to do, it’s usually safe to proceed.
If it appears unexpectedly or you haven’t done anything associated with that service, pause and double-check before clicking yes.
Over time, these messages will feel less disruptive and more like brief check-ins that help keep your accounts secure.
Building Confidence One Step at a Time
You do not need perfect security overnight. What matters most is starting with a few foundational steps and understanding what is happening as you go.
One password manager, two or three key accounts protected with two-factor authentication, and a basic understanding of what security prompts mean are often enough to make technology feel more trustworthy.
If you’d like help setting this up calmly and correctly, a single support session or a short Starter Bundle is often enough to get everything in place and feeling manageable.
