What is a trusted device?
When you try to view or edit your credit card details or other sensitive information in your Microsoft account, you might need to enter a security code first, to make sure that only you can get in to...
View ArticleWhy do I have to update my email account information?
We’ve noticed comments from many of you asking why we want you to verify your Microsoft security information. We’d like to explain why verifying this information is important. To help protect your...
View ArticleCreate stronger passwords and protect them
All week we’ll be posting our best guidance on how to create, protect, and manage your passwords. Passwords are your first line of defense against hackers. Pick passwords that are difficult to crack...
View ArticleDo you know your kids’ passwords?
This is the second of two blog posts on password protection. Read Part 1: Create strong passwords and protect them. Whether or not you should know all of your kids’ passwords depends on their age, how...
View Article5 passwords you should never use
This is part three of three posts on stronger passwords. Part 1: Create stronger passwords and protect them Part 2: Do you know your kids’ passwords? The news is filled with stories about hackers...
View ArticleCongratulations! You’ve won $800,000!!
Well, maybe not. But that’s just one of the many ploys that scammers send in their relentless efforts to part people from their money or sensitive personal information like passwords and account...
View ArticleGet advance notice about September 2014 security updates
Today, the Microsoft Security Response Center (MSRC) posted details about the September security updates. If you have automatic updating turned on, most of these updates will download and install on...
View ArticleGet security updates for September 2014
Microsoft releases security updates on the second Tuesday of every month. How to check for the latest updates. This bulletin announces the release of security updates for Windows, Microsoft Office,...
View ArticleWhat to do if your antivirus subscription has expired
Phil asks: I’m new to Windows 8.1. Now that my free security software has expired, how do I go about making Windows Defender my choice security method? Windows Defender is included with Windows 8 and...
View ArticleHOW TO: Report the Microsoft phone scam
If someone calls you from Microsoft technical support and offers to help you fix your computer, mobile phone, or tablet, this is a scam designed to install malicious software on your computer, steal...
View ArticleGet security updates for August 2014
Microsoft releases security updates on the second Tuesday of every month. How to check for the latest updates. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FkPcn5tQNfk This bulletin announces the release of security...
View ArticleCheck security settings in Windows Vista
The newest version of Windows is Windows 8, but we know that many of you still use Windows Vista. The best way to ensure that Windows Vista is as secure as it can be is to use the Windows Security...
View ArticleWindows Defender and Microsoft Security Essentials: Which one do I need?
UPDATE: For the most relevant information on Microsoft Security Essentials, please visit the Microsoft threat detection information page. We can ensure this page stays updated with the most relevant...
View ArticleParental controls in Xbox One
Xbox One is the newest all-in-one games and entertainment system from Microsoft. If you’ve already purchased one, or if you plan to, it’s a good idea to learn more about the built-in privacy and safety...
View ArticleDetect and remove spyware
Spyware is a general term used to describe software that performs certain actions—generally without appropriately obtaining your consent—such as: Advertising Collecting personal information Changing...
View ArticleHow do I know if I already have antivirus software?
UPDATE: For the most relevant information on antivirus software, learn how to protect your computer by visiting the Microsoft support page on Windows Defender. We can ensure this page stays updated...
View Article5 ways to protect your Microsoft account
Your Microsoft account (formerly your Windows Live ID) is the combination of an email address and a password that you use to sign in to services such as Xbox LIVE and Outlook.com, as well as devices...
View ArticleMicrosoft is building a global online safety community, one tweet at a time
Some say, “It takes a village to raise a child.” Extending this notion, it takes an entire global community to make the Internet a safer and better place. Microsoft is committed to fostering digital...
View ArticleIs that call from Microsoft a scam?
(Note: Our Tech support scams FAQ page has the latest info on this type of threat, including scammer tactics, fake error messages, and the latest scammer hotlines. You can also read our latest blog,...
View ArticleHow to sign into devices that don’t accept security codes
Two-step verification makes it more difficult for hackers to access your account, even when they have your password. If you turn on two-step verification, you’ll see an extra page every time you sign...
View Article