First Security Settings to Change on a New Phone or Computer

When you unbox a new phone or computer, the first security settings you should change are the lock screen, the administrator account password, and turning on full-disk encryption. These three steps take under ten minutes and block the most common ways data gets stolen from a brand-new device. After that, set up two-factor authentication on your primary accounts and disable remote access tools you won’t use.

Why the Defaults Are Not Enough

Manufacturers ship devices with settings chosen for convenience, not security. A new Windows PC often has a local account with no password, or a Microsoft account that signs in automatically. A new phone may have a simple swipe-to-unlock or a default PIN like 0000. These defaults exist so you can start using the device quickly, but they also mean anyone who picks up your device has full access to your email, photos, and saved passwords.

Another issue is that many devices come with remote access tools enabled by default. Windows has Remote Desktop, macOS has Screen Sharing and Remote Login, and Android phones may have ADB debugging on. If you never use these, they are an open door for someone on the same Wi-Fi network or with your credentials. Disabling them is a one-time change that removes a whole class of attacks.

Finally, encryption is often not turned on out of the box. Windows devices may have BitLocker disabled unless you sign in with a Microsoft account, and some Android phones encrypt only after you set a PIN. Without encryption, anyone who removes the storage drive can read your files directly.

Step 1: Lock Screen and Passwords

1. Set a strong lock screen PIN or password – Use at least 6 digits on a phone, or a full password on a computer. Avoid birthdays and simple patterns.
2. Change the administrator account password – On Windows, go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options and set a password. On macOS, go to System Settings > Users & Groups and change the password. On Android, set a PIN in Settings > Security. On iPhone, set a passcode in Settings > Face ID & Passcode.
3. Enable biometric unlock if available – Fingerprint or face unlock is more secure than a PIN because it can’t be shoulder-surfed, but keep the PIN as a backup.
4. Set the screen to lock after a short time – 1-2 minutes of inactivity is a good balance.

If you skip this step, a thief can simply press the power button and see everything. Even a simple 4-digit PIN stops casual snooping and is required for full-disk encryption on most phones.

Step 2: Turn On Full-Disk Encryption

Full-disk encryption scrambles all data on the storage drive so it can only be read with the correct key. Without it, someone can remove the drive from your laptop or phone and read the files with another computer. With it, they see only random noise.

• Windows: Open Settings > Privacy & Security > Device Encryption. If your PC supports it, turn it on. If you have a Microsoft account, the recovery key is stored in your account. For local accounts, you’ll need to create a recovery key and keep it safe.
• macOS: Go to System Settings > Privacy & Security > FileVault, then turn it on. You’ll be asked to store a recovery key – do not skip this.
• Android: Encryption is automatic once you set a PIN, pattern, or password. Check under Settings > Security > Encryption to confirm.
• iPhone: Data protection is automatic when you set a passcode. No extra step needed.

If your computer is older and doesn’t support encryption, consider upgrading the drive or using a third-party tool like VeraCrypt, but that’s more advanced.

Step 3: Set Up Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication adds a second check beyond your password – usually a code from an app or a text message. Even if someone steals your password, they can’t get in without the second factor.

Start with your most important accounts: email, banking, social media, and cloud storage. For each one:

1. Go to the account’s security settings.
2. Choose “Two-Factor Authentication� or “2-Step Verification.�
3. Prefer an authenticator app (like Google Authenticator or Authy) over SMS, because SMS codes can be intercepted via SIM-swapping.
4. Save the backup codes in a secure place – you’ll need them if you lose your phone.

This one setting prevents the most common account takeovers. It takes about five minutes per account and is the single most effective step you can take.

Step 4: Disable Unused Remote Access and Sharing

Remote access tools let you control your device from another location. They’re useful for tech support, but if you don’t need them, they’re a risk. On a new device, they may be on by default.

• Windows: Open Settings > System > Remote Desktop and turn it off. Also check Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced network settings > Sharing options, and turn off file and printer sharing if you don’t use it.
• macOS: Go to System Settings > General > Sharing and turn off Screen Sharing, File Sharing, Remote Login, and Remote Management.
• Android: Go to Settings > Developer Options and turn off USB debugging. If you don’t see Developer Options, it’s already off.
• iPhone: Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services and review which apps can access your location. Also check Settings > General > VPN & Device Management to ensure no profiles are installed.

If you do need remote access for work, keep it on but make sure it requires a strong password and 2FA.

Step 5: Update the Operating System and Apps

New devices often ship with outdated software. The first thing you should do after setup is check for updates and install them. Updates fix security holes that attackers know about.

• Windows: Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates.
• macOS: System Settings > General > Software Update.
• Android: Settings > System > System update.
• iPhone: Settings > General > Software Update.

After the OS update, update all your apps from the official app store. Apps you download from unknown sources can contain malware, so stick to the official stores.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is using the same password for everything. If one site is breached, all your accounts are at risk. Use a password manager to generate and store unique passwords for each site.

Another mistake is ignoring the recovery key. If you turn on encryption and then forget your password, the recovery key is your only way back in. Write it down and store it somewhere safe – not on a sticky note on your monitor.

Finally, don’t disable security features because they seem inconvenient. The few extra seconds to enter a PIN or wait for a fingerprint scan are nothing compared to the hours of hassle if your identity is stolen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change settings on a brand new iPhone?

Yes. iPhones are secure by default, but you should still set a strong passcode (not 0000), enable Face ID or Touch ID, and turn on Find My iPhone under Settings > Apple ID > Find My. Also, review which apps have access to your location and camera.

Is it safe to use a fingerprint to unlock my phone?

Yes, fingerprints are generally secure and more convenient than a PIN. They can’t be guessed or shoulder-surfed. However, a court can compel you to unlock with your fingerprint in some jurisdictions, so if that’s a concern, use a PIN instead.

What is the difference between a PIN and a password on a computer?

A PIN is a short numeric code, while a password is a longer string of characters. On Windows, a PIN is tied to the device, so it can’t be used to access your Microsoft account online. A password can be used anywhere. For local login, a PIN is fine, but for your online accounts, use a strong password.

Should I turn off location services on my phone?

Not entirely – many apps need it to function. Instead, review which apps have location access and set most to “While Using� or “Ask Next Time.� Turn off precise location for apps that don’t need it, like social media.

What is a recovery key and why do I need it?

A recovery key is a long code that can unlock your encrypted device if you forget your password. Without it, your data is permanently inaccessible. Store it in a safe place, like a password manager or a physical safe.

Can I use a third-party antivirus on a new computer?

You can, but Windows and macOS have built-in protections that are sufficient for most users. Third-party antivirus can sometimes slow down your system and cause conflicts. Focus on keeping your system updated and using common sense online.

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