9
Seconds
for a
Safer
World

9 Seconds for a Safer World

Cyber threats are everywhere. And getting sneakier. What can you do to protect yourself, your community and our nation? Take a 9-second pause and think before you click, download, share. A short pause goes a long way.

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SECURITY STARTS WITH THE DEVICES YOU TRUST

Apple, Google, and Microsoft devices come with built-in ways to protect you. We’ll help you understand what your device is already doing, and show you what steps to take to make it even stronger.

Protect yourself

Take9 to
protect
yourself
and
your country

Take9 is a public service campaign created by Craig Newmark Philanthropies and a coalition of our nation’s top cybersecurity organizations.

And now, a word from our sponsor… 

Stay Informed

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The Power of Positive Pause

Illustration of a head with multiple eyes representing awareness

If something seems off or too good to be true, it usually is. Trust your cyber senses. Protect yourself and others. Just Take9—pause for 9 seconds.

Why 9?

Science says: In stressful situations, wait 10 seconds before responding.

Marketing says: 9 seconds sounds more doable than 10 seconds, just like 99¢ sounds a whole lot cheaper than $1.00.

We believe 9 seconds ought to do it—not too long, not too hard, but time enough to make a better decision.

Illustration of a head with multiple eyes representing awareness

What you can do

Cyber threats are a moving target.

That’s why we update this section regularly with new tips and guidance. These small steps are your foundation. Start here and keep building.

USE A
Password Manager An app used to generate, store, and manage passwords securely.

A password manager securely creates and remembers strong passwords for you. It can be an app, a browser feature, or already part of your device.

Update Your
Software A collection of programs and data that tell a computer how to perform specific tasks.

Software updates fix security vulnerabilities hackers can exploit. Install updates promptly to protect personal and community information.

Here’s how to enable auto security updates for iPhone, Android, Mac and Windows.

Avoid the
Phishing Hook

Scammers bait you with fake offers and links–it’s called Phishing A fraudulent practice in which attackers trick people into revealing sensitive information or installing malicious software. for a reason. Think before you click, and report anything suspicious.

Stay Informed

Stay up to date to keep yourself, your community, and your country safe.

(Just remember to pause for 9 seconds—and Take9 before you sign!)

We take care so you can safely share.