While Google may have started off and gained a lot of popularity as a search engine, it has now grown far beyond that point. From Search to Drive to Android and Google Play, the company’s arms have grown quite extensively. A bit over a year ago, they introduced Google Tips to assist and educate the user about the different uses and hacks of the expansive Google services. This is presented through card-based tips where each tip is a set of flip cards that walk you through each process step by step.
Realizing that user safety comes at the forefront of internet use, Google Tips introduced the following 12 safety tips:
1. Keep the hackers out by updating your browser.
Among that most important updates from one version to another are fixing any security loopholes that may occur. Constantly updating your browser makes sure no hacker will be able to access any of your accounts. Although you will always be notified when you need to update your browser, you can always do that manually.
2. Keep prying eyes off your device.
For someone with unhealthy curiosity, a phone left unattended to can be quite intriguing to pry on. That’s why you should always set a PIN or security code for your phone to keep away any unneeded snooping around.
3. Hangout with your favorites knowing it’s safe for all.
To always make sure that Google+ Hangouts are safe, flag any content that you find violating the Google+ Hangouts policy. This will alert the team to review it, and take precautionary measures with the user in question.
4. Find and lock your device before the wrong hands find it.
What’s your worst fear if you ever lose your phone? That it might fall into the wrong hands? Well, there’s no need to fear because with Android, you can lock, ring or wipe your device from any distance in case you lose it. But it would always be a lot more secure if you manage not to lose in the first place.
5. Let questionable content be known the minute you see it.
Similar to Google+ Hangouts, with YouTube, you are always advised to flag any inappropriate content you believe violates the YouTube Guidelines. The team will then review the content, and take any necessary action if needed.
6. Protect your account and your selfies from hackers.
With Google’s 2-step verification option turned on, you will be sent a verification passcode to your phone if anyone tries to access your account from a different computer.
7. Say farewell to surprise purchases.
With Google Play Store, you can set a password that is always required before purchasing any app.
8. Get family-friendly results from Search.
SafeSearch is an option you can turn on to scan for any mature content you wouldn’t want yourself or your family exposed to.
9. Create a better password than "password."
Seems like there many others out there who go for the easy obvious answer. But guess what? It isn’t keeping any of your content safe. To learn how to create a stronger password, follow the flip card instructions. Or use our fun guide .
10. Let your browser manage your passwords.
We know it’s easier to set the same username and password for all your online accounts to avoid the hassle of remembering them all. But if one of these accounts gets hacked, all the others will be at risk. It’s quite advisable to use different passwords. And don’t worry about remembering them, because Google Chrome will save them for you.
11. Make sure your account is secure with a quick check up.
Always keep your Google account safe by updating your security settings.
12. Set it and forget it. Keep Safety Mode locked.
The YouTube Safety Mode helps scan and keep out any content you wish for yourself and family to avoid.