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Technology changes quickly, and so do the tactics used by scammers and cybercriminals. The good news? Protecting your personal information doesn't always require complicated software or technical expertise. Often, it comes down to a few simple habits.

To help our Members stay informed, we're partnering with fellow United Member and Business Member, TechSpot Electronics Repair, in Van Buren, Arkansas. Every day, owner Thomas Howard and his team help customers recover damaged devices, remove viruses, troubleshoot suspicious activity, and identify security risks that many people don't realize exist.

Since opening TechSpot, Thomas estimates his team has completed more than 10,000 repairs. Along the way, he's seen firsthand how easily people can become victims of scams, malware, and preventable security issues. While helping solve problems, Thomas educates customers about what went wrong.

"Let me help you understand what brought you to this point so that way we can help prevent it from happening again," Thomas says. From outdated devices to unnecessary app permissions, these are some of the most common cybersecurity concerns the TechSpot team encounters and what you can do to better protect yourself.

Your Outdated Phone or Computer Could Be Your Biggest Security Risk

Many people assume cybersecurity threats come from hackers targeting them directly. In reality, one of the biggest risks may already be sitting in your pocket or on your desk. If you're still using an older phone, tablet, or computer simply because it "works fine," it may no longer be receiving security updates.

Those updates aren't just about new features or appearance changes. They often contain fixes for vulnerabilities that cybercriminals already know how to exploit. Thomas recalls helping organizations that were still operating on outdated systems without critical security support, creating risks they didn't even realize existed.

What you can do:

• Turn on automatic updates whenever possible
• Check regularly for software and operating system updates
• Consider replacing devices that no longer receive security support from the manufacturer

Think Twice Before Using Public USB Charging Stations

When you're traveling, a low phone battery can make a public charging station look appealing. However, convenience isn't always worth the risk. TechSpot recommends avoiding public USB charging ports in airports, hotels, convention centers, and other public spaces whenever possible.

While many charging stations are legitimate, using your own power source offers greater peace of mind and reduces unnecessary risk. Small habits can make a big difference when it comes to protecting your devices and personal information.

What you can do:

• Bring your own wall adapter when traveling
• Carry a portable battery pack
• Use a charge-only cable if you need a backup charging option

Review App Permissions More Often

Most of us download an app, tap "Allow," and move on without a second thought. Over time, however, those permissions can add up. Some apps may request access to your camera, microphone, contacts, photos, or location even when that access isn't necessary for the app to function.

A helpful rule of thumb: if a permission doesn't make sense for what the app does, take a closer look. For example, why would a flashlight app need access to your contacts? Why does a simple game need your microphone? Spending a few minutes reviewing permissions today could help better protect your personal information tomorrow.

What you can do:

• Review app permissions in your device settings
• Remove access that isn't necessary
• Make permission reviews part of your regular digital maintenance routine

Be Skeptical of "Phone Cleaner" and "Battery Booster" Apps

Many apps promise to speed up, clean, optimize, or improve your device with a single tap. According to Thomas and his team, those apps are among the most common unnecessary applications they remove from customers' devices. In many cases, these apps provide little real benefit and may create additional issues, consume resources, display excessive advertising, or collect more information than users realize. When it comes to cybersecurity, installing fewer unnecessary apps often means reducing potential risks.

What you can do:

• Review the apps currently installed on your device
• Remove applications you no longer use or trust
• Download apps only from reputable developers and official app stores

Scammers Are Getting More Convincing

One of the biggest mistakes people make is assuming they would immediately recognize a scam. Unfortunately, today's fraud attempts are becoming increasingly sophisticated. In fact, Thomas shared that even he has encountered convincing scams.

"There was a call the other day where I kind of gave out a little bit more information than I should have before I realized, 'Hey, this is obviously a scam,'" he said. His experience serves as an important reminder: anyone can be caught off guard. If someone contacts you unexpectedly and asks you to verify personal information, slow down. Take a moment to verify who you're speaking with before sharing sensitive details.

What you can do:

• Be cautious of urgent requests for personal information
• Verify organizations through trusted contact information
• Change passwords immediately if you think information may have been compromised
• Never feel pressured to make an immediate decision

A Shared Commitment to Keeping Members Safe

At United, protecting our Members is about more than monitoring accounts and preventing fraud. It's about helping people make informed decisions that keep their information, finances, and devices secure. That's why we're grateful to partner with business Members like TechSpot Electronics Repair.

Through their daily work helping people recover from damaged devices, scams, and security issues, they're helping strengthen our community one repair at a time. As technology continues to evolve, cybersecurity threats will evolve with it. But by learning from trusted experts, staying informed, and practicing a few smart habits, you can reduce your risk and better protect what matters most.

Looking for more information about fraud prevention, cybersecurity, and financial security? Explore additional articles on Advice Hub for practical tips designed to help you stay safe and informed.