The internet is an incredible resource but it also comes with risks — especially for households with children or less tech-savvy family members. This article covers practical habits and tips to help everyone in your household browse safely and confidently.
For Everyone in the Household
Use Strong Unique Passwords on Every Account
Reusing the same password across multiple websites is one of the biggest security risks. If one site is compromised, attackers will try your password everywhere else.
Your LanClub password vault makes this easy — use it to generate and store a unique strong password for every account. You only need to remember your master password.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
MFA adds a second layer of security to your accounts. Even if someone gets your password, they still can't log in without the second factor — usually a code sent to your phone.
Enable MFA on your most important accounts first:
- Email (Gmail, Outlook, Hotmail)
- Banking and financial accounts
- Social media (Facebook, Instagram)
- Apple ID or Google Account
Email help@lanclub.nz if you'd like help setting up MFA on any of your accounts.
Think Before You Click
Before clicking any link — in an email, on social media, or on a website — ask yourself:
- Do I know and trust the source?
- Was I expecting this?
- Does the web address look correct?
If anything feels off, don't click. See our How to Spot a Phishing Email article for more detail.
Keep Software Updated
Outdated software is one of the most common ways attackers gain access to computers. Keeping your operating system and applications up to date closes known security gaps.
If you're on the Pro plan, LanClub handles this automatically. If you're on Essentials or Standard, make sure you install updates when prompted — don't keep clicking "remind me later."
Only Download from Trusted Sources
Only download software from official websites or trusted app stores:
- Windows apps: Microsoft Store or the developer's official website
- Mac apps: Mac App Store or the developer's official website
- Phone apps: Apple App Store or Google Play Store
Avoid downloading software from random websites, pop-ups, or links sent via email. If you're unsure whether something is safe to download, email help@lanclub.nz and we'll check it for you.
Use Secure WiFi
Avoid doing anything sensitive — online banking, email, shopping — while connected to public WiFi networks in cafes, hotels, or airports. These networks are not secure and can be monitored by others.
At home, make sure your WiFi is protected with a strong password. If you'd like us to review your home WiFi security, email support@lanclub.nz.
Back Up Your Important Files
Even with the best protection in place, things can go wrong. Make sure your important files — photos, documents, tax records — are backed up regularly.
LanClub recommends setting up OneDrive to automatically back up your Documents, Photos, and Desktop folders to the cloud. We can help you set this up during your onboarding session or at any time — email help@lanclub.nz.
For Households with Children
Have an Open Conversation About Online Safety
The most effective protection for children online is an open, honest conversation. Talk to your children about:
- Not sharing personal information online — full name, address, school, phone number
- Telling a trusted adult if something online makes them feel uncomfortable
- Not agreeing to meet someone they've only met online
- Being kind online — cyberbullying affects real people
Use Your NextDNS Firewall
If you're on the Standard or Pro plan, your NextDNS firewall can be configured to apply stricter content filtering for your household — blocking adult content, gambling sites, and other categories you'd prefer younger family members not to access.
To adjust your filtering settings, email help@lanclub.nz with your preferences and we'll update your NextDNS profile.
Set Up Separate User Accounts
If children share a computer with adults, set up separate user accounts for them. This keeps your personal files and settings separate and lets you apply different permissions.
Windows: Settings → Accounts → Family & other users → Add a family member
Mac: System Settings → Users & Groups → Add Account
If you'd like help setting this up, submit a ticket at https://help.lanclub.nz.
Be Aware of In-App Purchases
Children using games or apps on shared devices can accidentally — or intentionally — make in-app purchases. Make sure purchases require a password or biometric confirmation:
iPhone/iPad: Settings → Screen Time → Content & Privacy Restrictions → iTunes & App Store Purchases
Android: Google Play → Settings → Authentication → Require authentication for purchases
Quick Reference — Safe Browsing Checklist
| Habit | Why it Matters |
|---|---|
| Use unique passwords via Bitwarden | Stops one breach affecting all accounts |
| Enable MFA on important accounts | Blocks access even if password is stolen |
| Think before clicking links | Avoids phishing and malware |
| Only download from official sources | Avoids fake software and malware |
| Keep software updated | Closes known security vulnerabilities |
| Avoid sensitive tasks on public WiFi | Prevents data interception |
| Back up important files to OneDrive | Protects against data loss |
| Talk to children about online safety | Builds good habits early |
Useful NZ Resources
| Resource | Purpose | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Own Your Online | NZ Government online safety hub | ownyouronline.govt.nz |
| Netsafe | Online safety advice for families | netsafe.org.nz |
| CERT NZ | Cybersecurity advice and incident reporting | cert.govt.nz |
| Keeping Ourselves Safe | NZ Police online safety for children | police.govt.nz |
Questions?
If you'd like help with any of the tips in this article — setting up MFA, adjusting NextDNS filtering, or reviewing your home WiFi security — submit a ticket at https://help.lanclub.nz, email help@lanclub.nz, or call us on +64 22 573 3469.