Cyber-Savvy Starts at Home: How to Stay Safe Online with Fibre
Your fibre broadband might be fast — but is your online safety keeping up?
With Kiwis more connected than ever, cybersecurity matters. In just the first quarter of 2024, 1,537 cyber incidents were reported to CERT NZ, with phishing and stolen login credentials topping the list.
Whether you’re streaming, banking, shopping, or working from home, staying safe online is just as important as having a reliable connection. So, here’s how to level up your cyber smarts and protect your home network.
1. Lock Down Your Wi-Fi
Start with your router — it’s the front door to your digital home.
Use a strong Wi-Fi password (not the one that came with the box!)
Enable WPA3 encryption if available
Change your router’s default admin login — those are often easy for hackers to guess
2. Keep Everything Updated
Don’t ignore those update reminders — they often contain important security fixes.
Update your devices, apps, and antivirus software regularly
Enable automatic updates where you can
Cyber threats evolve quickly — and outdated software is an easy target.
3. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Using “Password123” or the same login across every account? Time to switch it up.
Create long, hard-to-guess passwords for every service
Avoid reusing passwords across sites
Use a password manager to help you remember them all
4. Turn On Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Whenever a site or app offers 2FA, use it. It’s an extra layer of security — like a lock and a deadbolt.
Even if someone guesses your password, they won’t get in without the second step (usually a code sent to your phone).
5. Watch Out for Phishing Scams
Phishing messages are designed to trick you into sharing private info — like your login details or credit card number.
Don’t click on links in suspicious emails or texts
Be cautious of messages asking for urgent action
Always double-check the sender’s address and verify with the source if unsure
If it feels off, it probably is.
6. Keep an Eye on Your Accounts
Make it a habit to check your bank statements and online accounts for any strange activity. Spotting something early can stop a small issue from becoming a big one.
7. Educate Everyone in Your Home
From teenagers to grandparents, everyone in your household should know the basics of staying safe online.
Talk about scams and suspicious links
Set up safe browsing for kids
Share new security tips when you learn them
Cybersecurity is a team effort.
Stay Smart, Stay Safe
Being on fibre broadband means you’ve got one of the best connections in the country — make sure your online habits match the speed and quality of your service.
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