Definitions/Terms to know:

• Data/Information – Both terms will be used and mean the same thing.  Data, or information, refers to sensitive, private and personal information about yourself, family, clients, friends, etc.  Think of it as anything you do not want a stranger with bad intentions to know.
• Devices – Refers to anything you or your family own that connects to the internet.  Will most often be in reference to a phone, computer or tablet, but could also mean an internet connected speaker, TV, etc.
• Hacked, Compromised, Breached – All 3 terms will be used and basically mean the same thing.  If something is “hacked”, compromised or breached, it means someone has gained access to something without permission.
• Hacker/Attacker – Either term refers to someone with malicious intentions trying to gain access to accounts or systems, steal data, etc. without permission and while often breaking the law.
• Internet of Things (IoT) - Devices connected to the internet such as a security camera, television, fridge, speaker (Amazon Alexa or Google Home), etc.
• Login Credentials/Login - A combination of a username or email address and password used to log in to a website or app.
• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) – Also called 2-step or 2-factor authentication (2FA).  Means you log in with more than just a password (i.e. your password plus either a text to your phone, a physical token, a finger print, a code from an app on your phone, etc.).
• Patched/Unpatched – When something is patched, it means the security problems or vulnerabilities have been fixed.  Unpatched means the security vulnerabilities or problems have not been fixed.
• Vulnerability – Vulnerabilities are security issues/problems within a piece of software, hardware, or website.  When you see vulnerability, think security problem.