The Common Sense-Cyber Handbook: How to Protect Your Home and Small Business from Cyber Threats

The Common Sense-Cyber Handbook: How to Protect Your Home and Small Business from Cyber Threats

Protecting your home and small business from cyber threats does not require a computer science degree. The Common Sense-Cyber Handbook is a practical, plain-language guide designed to help home users and small businesses understand common cyber risks and apply simple, proven protections that actually work. The book uses relatable stories and clear action steps so you can protect your accounts, devices, family, and business without getting lost in jargon. Inside, you will learn how to defend yourself against the threats you are most likely to face, including malware, ransomware, phishing / social engineering, identity theft, and AI-driven scams . What you will get from this handbook: Real-world scenarios that show how attacks happen and how to stop them - Step-by-step guidance for securing devices, accounts, and home networks - Straightforward best practices for passwords, MFA, and modern sign-in methods - Actionable checklists you can print and use for daily, weekly, and monthly cyber hygiene, plus recovery steps if something goes wrong Topics covered include: Device security and backups, keeping devices updated, built-in security protections, passwords and authentication, phishing, AI scams, safe browsing, social media privacy, securing your Wi-Fi/router, smart home (IoT) safety, traveling securely, safe use for kids, shared devices, building good cybersecurity habits, what to do if you are hacked, plus a glossary and resources section. Written by Michael Caruso , a cybersecurity and technology professional with more than 20 years of experience leading enterprise security, cyber risk governance, IT operations, and networking teams. He is currently providing fractional CISO and IT compliance services.