Google asks India #SecurityCheckKiya

With an objective to create awareness around internet safety and reiterate its efforts to protect netizens, Google India on Monday announced its public safety initiative '#SecurityCheckKiya'.

Targeted at young and first-time web users, Google is asking people this 'Safer Internet Day' (February 6) to take three simple yet important actions to protect themselves from account hijacking, safeguard their Android mobile devices from malicious apps and secure all their personal data if they lose their device.

With a large base of unsuspecting first time Internet users now coming online through easy access modes but lacking technical literacy, Indian users are increasingly vulnerable to bad actors and abuse on the web.

Taking these three simple steps can help everyone start their journey towards internet safety and safeguard their online experience.

"Just like in the physical world where we are careful about the information we share with strangers, safeguard our house by keeping doors locked, and think twice before accepting things from unknown people, users in India should take precautions while engaging with the online world. While security is built into all of Google services, keeping the web safe for everyone is a shared responsibility. We want everyone to become good Digital Citizens, which essentially means being a responsible and respectful user of the Internet," said Director, Trust and Safety - Google India, Sunita Mohanty.

"Through our initiative, we want to nudge internet users to take action to safeguard themselves, because the first step to a safer internet starts with them. We are asking users to get started on their journey by securing their data and devices, by asking them #SecurityCheckKiya," she added.

Google will make this information available on it's homepage, encouraging users to take the first step of security check on Safer Internet Day and promote the message across social to drive larger participation.

Three-step action to stay safe on the web:

Step 1: For all Android devices and Gmail users

Security Check: Review your security settings and Google account activity with one click

Google Security check helps you to automatically scan for any vulnerability and guides you to keep your account safe in few minutes

On desktop, go to My Account > Under Sign-in and Security > Run Security Check

On mobile, visit your Gmail App, tap > Settings > tap ID > My Account Under Sign-in and Security > Run Security Check

Step 2: For all Android mobile devices

Google Play Protect: Scan and check your Android device for any harmful apps

Google Play Protect scans all apps for malware before and after you install them and is automatically enabled on your device:

Open your device's Google Play Store app

Tap Menu > Play Protect icon

Alternatively, you can also go to your

Phone Settings > Security & Location > Google Play Protect

Step 3: For all Android mobile devices

Download Find My Device App

Find My Device app from Google helps you to easily locate a lost Android device, and keeps your device and information secure.

Visit android.com/find to locate, ring, lock and erase your Android devices-phones, tablets, and even watches.