Did you know that about 80% of New Year’s resolutions fizzle out by February? The secret to success isn’t in setting lofty goals—it’s in building small, sustainable habits. According to research, habits form when you pair simple, repeatable actions with daily routines. The key is to start small, focus on one behavior, and stick with it long enough for it to become second nature.
In 2025, why not apply that strategy to your digital life? Strengthening your cyber habits can help protect you and Yale against online threats. Here are five easy habits to choose from:
- Strengthen Your Password Game. Switch to a password manager to create strong and unique passwords for your accounts.
- Think Before You Click. Slow down and verify links or attachments before clicking—especially in unexpected emails.
- Update and Elevate. Turn on automatic updates to keep all your devices secure with the latest software.
- Multifactor All the Way. Enable multifactor authentication (MFA) on your accounts to add an extra layer of security.
- Declutter Your Digital Life. Take 10 minutes to remove unused apps or accounts that might still store your data.
Pick one habit and focus on it for a few weeks. It’s easier than you think to make it stick!
Ready for More? Join our New Year, New You challenge!
From January 27 to February 28, the Information Security Office invites you to level up your digital defenses with our interactive campaign. Choose from weekly tasks to build your cyber skills and protect what matters most. Complete a certain number of tasks and be entered to win cybersecurity awareness swag!
Challenge highlights include:
- A talk with the local FBI field office to build your cyber sleuthing skills.
- A cyber meme contest to inspire your cyber creativity.
- An interview with Yale’s Chief Information Security Officer to learn about 2025 cyber priorities.
Register now to receive alerts. Let’s make 2025 the year we Bee Cyber Fit!