¿Has adquirido nuevos dispositivos electrónicos para las vacaciones? Ya sea que hayas desenvuelto un teléfono inteligente, una tableta o una computadora portátil nueva y reluciente, los primeros pasos que des serán clave para toda tu experiencia.
Te guiaré a través de los pasos esenciales para asegurarte de que tus dispositivos sean seguros, funcionales y estén listos para ser disfrutados.
Desde establecer contraseñas seguras hasta habilitar funciones de seguimiento, estos consejos te ayudarán a sacar el máximo provecho de tus nuevos dispositivos.
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Una persona abriendo nuevos regalos tecnológicos. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
¿Qué hacer si compras una nueva computadora portátil, tableta o teléfono inteligente?
Configura contraseñas y PIN seguros
Cambia las contraseñas y PIN predeterminados de inmediato. Utiliza una combinación de letras, números y caracteres especiales. Evita el uso de información fácil de adivinar, como cumpleaños o nombres. Considera utilizar un administrador de contraseñas para generar y almacenar contraseñas complejas.
Habilita la autenticación de dos factores (2FA)
Siempre que sea posible, activa 2FA para mayor seguridad. Esto proporciona una capa adicional de protección al requerir un segundo paso de verificación, como un mensaje de texto o una aplicación de autenticación.
Considera protectores de pantalla de privacidad (para teléfonos inteligentes y portátiles)
Los protectores de pantalla de privacidad pueden evitar que otros vean tu pantalla desde un costado, mejorando tu privacidad cuando uses tu dispositivo en espacios públicos.
Crea un sistema de respaldo para fotos y documentos.
Si tu dispositivo almacena datos importantes (por ejemplo, fotografías, documentos), configura de inmediato un sistema de respaldo. Esto se puede hacer a través de servicios en la nube o dispositivos de almacenamiento externos para garantizar que tus datos estén seguros.
Instala una sólida protección antivirus en todos tus dispositivos nuevos
La mejor manera de garantizar que tus dispositivos estén protegidos y que nadie esté husmeando en tus datos o historial de navegación es comprando software antivirus. Para protegerte de la vulneración de tus datos, instala protección antivirus en todos tus dispositivos nuevos. Tener un buen software antivirus ejecutándose activamente en tus nuevos dispositivos te alertará sobre cualquier malware en tu sistema, te advertirá contra hacer clic en enlaces maliciosos en correos electrónicos de phishing y, en última instancia, te protegerá de ser hackeado. Obtén mis selecciones para los mejores ganadores de protección antivirus de 2024 para tus dispositivos Windows, Mac, Android e iOS.
Una mujer mirando su nuevo teléfono inteligente. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Avoid these common pitfalls on your new device
Ignoring updates: do not skip software updates when setting up your new device. These updates often include critical security patches and new features. Enable automatic updates whenever possible to ensure your device stays up to date.
App overload: It’s tempting to download all the apps or tools that catch your eye. However, too many apps can slow down your device and increase the risk of downloading malicious software. Stick to reliable sources like the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Forgetting privacy settings: Take the time to review and configure privacy settings on your devices. Disable functions like location tracking or data tracking if they are not necessary for your use.
Neglecting physical protection: A single drop can ruin your new device. To protect and enhance them, it is important to have quality accessories such as a laptop bag or backpack, a laptop case, an external hard drive, headphones, a webcam cover, a portable monitor, a laptop stand, a Bluetooth mouse, a good power strip, and surge protector for your devices. You’ll also want a good phone charger. Check out our picks for the top five portable phone chargers. The last thing you want is a device dying because you didn’t have a decent charging accessory.
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Set up your new devices to be findable if lost
The best step to take if you have received a new laptop, tablet, or smartphone, whether it’s an Apple or Android product, is to activate any ‘Find My’ settings in case your device gets lost or stolen. Here are the steps you can take for the following options:
How to activate Find My on iPhone
Open the Settings app.
Tap your name.
Select Find My.
Tap Find My iPhone and turn it on.
Steps to activate Find My on iPhone. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
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How to activate Find My on my MacBook
Go to the Apple menu (the small Apple icon) in the top left corner and select System Preferences.
Then click on Privacy and Security in the sidebar (you may have to scroll down).
Click on Location Services and turn on Find My in the list of apps.
Note: If you don’t see Find My, go to System Services in the list of apps, click on Details, and then turn on Find My Mac.
How to activate Find My device on Windows 11
Select the Start button on the bottom left of your PC screen.
Go to Settings.
Select Privacy and Security.
Select Find My device and turn it on.
Go to Location Services and turn it on.
How to activate Find My on iPad
Go to Settings.
Tap your Name.
Click on Find My.
Tap Find My iPad and select ON.
How to activate Find My device on Android or Google Tablet
Settings may vary depending on the manufacturer of your Android phone.
Go to your Settings app.
Select Security.
Tap Find My device.
Allow Find My by sliding the toggle.
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What to do if you acquire a new Smart TV?
A child playing a video game on a Smart TV. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Smart TVs are a great device to receive during the holidays. Not only do they give you access to tons of streaming apps, but they also allow you to browse the Internet, stream music and videos, and even view photos. All these features come with a certain risk regarding targeted ads and malware. While any smart device can be infected with malware, Smart TVs generally are not the devices that suffer from this type of attacks. Although it has happened in the past with both Samsung and Apple TV, those cases are extremely rare. However, before you start enjoying your favorite movies and TV shows, follow these steps to protect your Smart TV:
Disable ads and tracking
Disabling ads and tracking on your Smart TV will greatly limit your TV’s ability to collect data about you and the content you are watching. Here’s how to disable that feature on Samsung, LG, and Vizio TVs:
LG
Some models may have different settings or options, so you should always consult the user manual or LG’s official website for the most up-to-date information.
Go to Settings > Additional settings > General.
Select Live Plus to disable Automated Content Recognition (ACR).
Select Ads and change the setting to “Do not sell my personal information.”
Review the terms of use and privacy policy and then opt out of viewing information, voice information, interest-based advertising, and cross-device and Live Plus automated content recognition.
Samsung
Some models may have different settings or options, so you should always consult the user manual or Samsung’s official website for the most up-to-date information. For example, some models may have Smart Features instead of Support in the Settings menu.
Go to Settings > Support > Terms and privacy > Privacy options.
Select View information services to disable Automated Content Recognition (ACR).
Select Voice recognition services to adjust voice data collection.
Vizio
Some models may have different settings or options, so you should always consult the user manual or Vizio’s official website for the most up-to-date information.
Go to Settings > Privacy and Security.
Select View data to disable Automated Content Recognition (ACR).
Select Advertising to adjust ad tracking.
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Disable all camera and voice recognition settings
Most smart TVs do not come with built-in microphones or cameras, but there is a way to disable those functions for brands that do have them.
Samsung
Some models may have different settings or options, so you should always consult the user manual or Samsung’s official website for the most up-to-date information. For example, some models may have Smart Features instead of Support in the Settings menu. Some Samsung models come with retractable cameras in the middle of the device. Gently push it back without touching the lens until you hear a click to turn it off.
Go to Settings > Support > Terms and policies.
Go to Voice recognition services and select Off.
Some LG TV models come with retractable cameras. Hold the lens down when not in use.
Other Smart TV brands may come with external cameras. Make sure they are disconnected when not in use.
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Sell, donate, or recycle your old devices
A woman scrolling on her smartphone. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
If you have old devices that you don’t need, you can sell or recycle them. Some services will even pay you if your devices don’t work. To get the best deal for your devices, you need to choose the right service. Here are some services you can use:
Amazon Trade-In: If you’re a big Amazon shopper, it may be worth trying to trade in your old device with their trade-in company. You can swap your device for an Amazon gift card and they even accept items that don’t work. This is a convenient way to get rid of your unwanted electronics and get credit for your future Amazon purchases. You can also check the trade-in value of your device before sending it. Before getting rid of your old device, make sure to follow these steps: How to safely dispose of your old PC or Mac.
More: How to safely dispose of your old cell phone.
Kurt’s key takeaways
As you dive into setting up your new electronic devices, remember that taking a few minutes to protect and customize them can save you a lot of headaches in the future. By following these initial steps, you will not only protect your investment, but you are also enhancing your overall experience.
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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love for technology, gadgets, and devices that enhance life with his contributions for Fox News and FOX Business from the mornings on “FOX & Friends”. Do you have a technical question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy newsletter, share your voice, an idea for a story, or comment on CyberGuy.com.