Our dedicated IT department makes sure FirstEnergy computers and phones are updated frequently with the latest software. This ensures the most recent security upgrades are applied and often provides new or enhanced features to your work devices.

It’s just as important to protect your personal devices at home the same way. If compromised, your computer or home network could be used by malicious actors to steal your personal data or identity – or that of a member of your family. Here are a few tips to keep your own devices as safe as possible.

Routers

Out of the box, most home routers come with a default router password and SSID (the name for the Wi-Fi network). These are commonly known by brand, so it is especially important to change both as well as create a complex Wi-Fi password. Also, check online for updated firmware (the code that runs your router) and apply those upgrades regularly.

Phones/Tablets

Set your personal phone and tablets, including iPhones, iPads and Android devices, to automatically update their operating system and applications, which is the default on new devices. Automatic updates ensure security upgrades are applied and enhanced features are installed. (See the sidebar at right about updating company devices.) In addition, setting a complex password or personal identification number (PIN) will help keep your device more secure. Utilizing biometric options – such as fingerprint scanners, Touch ID and Face ID – also will increase the security of your device (see the sidebar below for more information).

Computers

As with phones, make sure the latest updates and patches are installed on your home computer(s). Both Microsoft Windows and MacOS allow you to schedule updates for a time when the computer is not busy. Any apps or browsers should also be updated frequently. Be sure to:

• Always use a firewall, either the built-in firewall (which is enabled by default), or one that your anti-virus vendor supplies.
• On Windows, review any security recommendations in the Security and Maintenance control screen.
• On MacOS, select Apple menu > System Preferences, then click Software Update and select Automatically keep my Mac up to date from the Preferences menu.

Smart devices

Smart devices such as doorbells, cameras or personal assistants are becoming more popular. Thesy should be maintained like your phone or computer. Check for firmware updates from the vendor and enable automatic updates when possible.