Cybercrime in 2026 has changed quite a bit compared with just a few years ago. A recent report from UK-based auditor KPMG estimates that it costs the UK economy around £14.7bn each year. While that number may sound large, it reflects activity across the entire country, not individual experiences.
Today’s scammers are starting to use more advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, to make their tricks look more convincing. The good news is that most online threats can still be avoided with simple, practical steps. By recognising a few common risky habits and swapping them for safer digital routines, you can make yourself much harder for criminals to target without needing to be an expert.
1. Treating Perfect-Looking Emails as Safe
Flawless spelling, familiar branding, and professional tone no longer guarantee an email is legitimate. AI now allows scammers to generate personalised phishing emails that look identical to official messages and even mimic the writing style of your bank, employer or family member. Never click links in unexpected emails. If a message asks for personal details or payment, verify it by calling the organisation or visiting its official website directly.
Red flags include:
- Urgent language or time limited offers pushing you to “click now”
- Generic greetings such as Dear customer
- Branding that looks slightly “off” or inconsistent
- Sender addresses that are nearly, but not exactly, the official domain
- Unknown links or attachments
- Requests for passwords or personal data
A few seconds of caution can stop a very convincing scam.
2. Using Weak or Recycled Passwords
Your passwords are the keys to your digital identity. If criminals access your email account, they can reset your logins to almost every other service you use. That is why your most important accounts, email, banking, social media and online shopping, must have passwords that are:
- Unique
- Long and hard to guess
- Kept completely secret
A simple way to create strong passwords is the three random words method:
Example: Cactus.3icycle!Pants
Avoid using personal details (birthdays, pets, addresses) or common passwords like 123456 or pa55word. Password managers can help by generating, storing and protecting all your passwords. There are two main types:
- App‑based managers – dedicated apps, sometimes subscription‑based
- Browser‑based managers – built into Chrome, Safari, Edge and others
Both are secure on personal devices. To protect your password manager:
- Use a strong master password
- Enable two‑step verification
- Install updates immediately
Remember: if you share a device, consider who may have access to your saved logins.
3. Ignoring Updates on Smart Home Devices
Many people update their phones but forget every other “smart” device in their home. Items like security cameras, routers, smart speakers, TVs and even connected fridges can be entry points for cyber criminals.
To stay secure:
- Check for updates on your smart home apps at least once a month
- Change default passwords as soon as you set up a device
- Replace devices that no longer receive security updates
A single out of date gadget can expose your entire home network.
4. Posting Your Real‑Time Location Online
Sharing live updates of holidays, meals out, or events may feel harmless, but it provides criminals with real-time data about your life.
AI-powered deepfake tools can now clone voices, using details from your posts to make scam calls sound convincing. For example, a family member could receive a fake emergency call using your voice and mentioning where you “currently” are.
To protect yourself:
- Share holiday photos only after you return
- Avoid posting real‑time locations
- Keep daily routines private
You can still enjoy social media, just with smarter timing.
5. Clicking “Accept All” on Cookie Banners
Cookie pop‑ups can be annoying but clicking “Accept All” hands over more personal data than most people realise. In 2026, this information is widely shared with advertisers and data brokers, who may sell it on. That data can eventually be used by scammers to target you more effectively.
A safer habit: Click “Reject All”, “Decline”, or “Essential Only.” It adds two seconds to your browsing but keeps your personal behaviour private.
Remember, staying safe online doesn’t mean retreating from the digital world or living in fear it simply means practicing small, confident habits that protect you while you enjoy everything the internet has to offer. Most scams rely on rushing, distracting, or overwhelming people, and by slowing down and making thoughtful choices, you remove their biggest advantage. With a few simple routines, stronger passwords, careful clicking, smarter sharing and regular updates you can explore, learn, shop, chat and create online with far more peace of mind. The internet remains an incredible tool for connection and opportunity in 2026; these safer habits just help ensure you get the best of it, not the worst.
