NEW YORK — With the holiday season approaching, families are gearing up for festive gatherings filled with lively discussions and a plethora of delicious dishes. For those who are well-versed in technology, these occasions may also involve stepping in to assist older family members—parents, grandparents, and others—with tech-related issues that have accumulated over time.

Moreover, considering the rise of generative artificial intelligence being used to enhance various cyber scams lately, it serves as a perfect opportunity to educate and not just repair.

Here are some practical strategies to enhance your tech interactions during the holiday festivities:

**Enable Automatic Updates on Devices**
Regardless of whether you’re using Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android, maintaining up-to-date operating systems and applications plays a crucial role in safeguarding your family’s devices from numerous security threats, including malware and viruses. Most modern operating systems come with automatic updates active by default, especially for mobile platforms and app stores. It’s essential to verify that the device has sufficient storage capacity to accommodate any updates. This can also reduce repeated questions from family members like, “Why isn’t this app working?”

**Creating Space for Storage**
It’s highly likely that at least one family member owns a mobile device stuffed with data to the point of being unable to perform updates. Fortunately, there are straightforward solutions for clearing up storage without delving too deeply into managing files.
– **Cloud Backup:** For iPhone users, utilizing iCloud can free up space occupied by music and photos. Android users can take advantage of the Google Photos app to back up their images conveniently.
– **Clearing Browsing Data:** Major web browsers include options to eliminate data caches, such as cookies and search histories. Over time, accumulated data can take up a substantial amount of storage space. Regularly clearing these caches can help not only free space but may also enhance overall device performance.

**Managing Passwords More Effectively**
As various studies suggest, the average individual has a multitude of passwords to juggle. In helping family members reset their passwords, it can be tempting to reuse existing ones for simplicity’s sake. However, this practice is discouraged by cybersecurity experts. Instead, you might introduce your relatives to password managers that effectively streamline login processes. For more tech-aware family members, consider suggesting an upgrade to passkeys, a more secure method of digital authentication.

**Informing About Current Scams**
As con artists devise more elaborate schemes to embezzle money and personal information, heightened awareness about potential scams is vital. The advent of artificial intelligence and advanced technologies has handed scammers tools that make their tricks even more sophisticated. A straightforward mnemonic to assist in recognizing scams is to remember the three S’s: “Stay suspicious, stop for a moment to think it through, and stay protected,” advises Alissa Abdullah, Mastercard’s deputy chief security officer.
Being knowledgeable about prevalent scams can significantly aid in protection. Common tactics include robocalls targeting vulnerable groups, romance scams aimed at isolated individuals, and various quiz scams that appeal to frequent social media users.

**Evaluating Internet Speed**
As internet connectivity continues to evolve, ensuring that family members enjoy high-speed internet is vital, particularly if they are paying for top-tier services. If they have been using older modems and routers, conducting a broadband speed test on their home network can reveal if they are getting the speed they deserve.

By taking these proactive measures, the holidays can be a time not only for celebration but also for empowering family members with better tech knowledge and security awareness.