Life changes fast, and things that once felt completely safe or normal can become risky seemingly out of nowhere.
Whether it’s advances in technology, the way society functions, or just how we’ve learned more about the dangers around us, a lot of everyday habits from the past would be considered pretty reckless now. Some of these changes are due to new risks, while others come from realising we were never as safe as we thought in the first place. Here are some things that used to be completely normal, but aren’t worth the risk these days.
1. Clicking on random links in emails or texts
Not too long ago, people didn’t think twice before opening an email link or responding to a text from an unknown number. Back then, scams were easier to spot, and most people assumed the worst that could happen was getting an annoying virus on their computer. Now, phishing attacks and cyber scams have become ridiculously advanced. One wrong click can mean stolen bank details, hacked accounts, or malware that locks you out of your own devices. With AI-generated messages that mimic real contacts, even tech-savvy people can fall for them. If a link looks even slightly suspicious, it’s better to ignore it.
2. Meeting up with strangers without verifying them
There was a time when meeting someone from an online forum, classified ad, or dating site felt like a casual thing. You’d pick a public place, maybe tell a friend, and assume that was enough to stay safe. The risks existed, but they weren’t as widespread. Now, deepfake profiles, AI-generated identities, and location tracking make it easier than ever for bad actors to pretend to be someone they’re not. Blindly trusting a profile isn’t just naive — it can be outright dangerous. If you’re meeting someone new, video calls, background checks, and real-life verification are a must.
3. Using public Wi-Fi without protection
Logging into free Wi-Fi at coffee shops, airports, or hotels used to be something everyone did without thinking. As long as you had a password, it felt secure enough. It was a normal way to save on mobile data and stay connected on the go. Now, cybercriminals can easily set up fake hotspots that look real, stealing personal data as soon as you connect. Even legitimate networks can be compromised, making any sensitive information like banking or login details vulnerable. If you’re not using a VPN or some level of encryption, public Wi-Fi is a serious risk.
4. Leaving your car unlocked, even in “safe” areas
It wasn’t that long ago when people felt comfortable leaving their car doors unlocked in their driveways, or even running inside a shop with the engine still on. Car theft existed, but it wasn’t as organised or technologically advanced. Now, keyless car hacking has become a major issue. Thieves use relay devices to capture the signal from your key fob and unlock or even start your car remotely. Even if you think your neighbourhood is safe, criminals using tech tools don’t need to be nearby — they just need a signal to intercept. If you’re not using signal-blocking pouches or additional security, your car is at risk.
5. Walking alone at night with headphones in
Years ago, people would casually walk home at night, listening to music, without worrying too much about their surroundings. Of course, being aware was always important, but it didn’t feel as risky as it does now. With rising worries about personal safety, especially in cities and especially for women, distractions like headphones can make you an easy target. Criminals know that people engrossed in their devices aren’t paying attention, making them more vulnerable to theft or worse. Staying aware, keeping one ear free, or using bone conduction headphones that let you hear your surroundings is the smarter choice.
6. Leaving your phone unlocked
There was a time when people barely used passcodes, let alone biometric security, because losing your phone just meant buying a new one. The most sensitive thing on it was maybe a few personal texts or photos. Now, our entire lives are stored on our phones — banking apps, private messages, work emails, and more. If someone gets access, they can drain your accounts, steal your identity, and even lock you out of your own device. Strong passwords, face recognition, and fingerprint security are a necessity, not an option.
7. Letting kids roam around outside unsupervised
Many people grew up riding bikes around the neighbourhood, walking to the shops alone, or playing outside for hours with little supervision. Parents trusted that their kids would be safe as long as they stuck to familiar areas. With the increase in tracking apps, missing person cases, and online predators, it’s clear that times have changed. While giving kids independence is still important, safety measures like GPS watches, check-ins, and teaching kids about potential dangers are now essential. Complete freedom without safeguards just isn’t realistic.
8. Using the same password for everything
Reusing passwords used to be common because, realistically, who could remember dozens of different logins? Cybersecurity wasn’t a major concern for the average person, and data breaches weren’t making headlines every week. Now, hackers use AI to crack weak passwords in seconds. If one account is compromised, they can access everything from emails to financial accounts. Password managers, two-factor authentication, and unique passwords for each account are the bare minimum for online security.
9. Trusting social media posts without verifying them
It used to be that if something was posted online, people generally believed it. Misinformation existed, but it wasn’t as advanced, and spotting fake news was easier. People trusted news articles, shared viral stories, and assumed most online content was genuine. Now, AI-generated images, deepfake videos, and manipulated posts can make fake news look more real than ever. One viral post can spread false information worldwide in minutes. Verifying sources, checking for deepfake manipulation, and questioning online content is crucial.
10. Using unprotected smart home devices
Smart devices like doorbells, thermostats, and security cameras were once seen as futuristic conveniences, not security risks. People connected them to their Wi-Fi without thinking twice and assumed they were safe. Now, hackers can break into unprotected smart devices, spying on homes, unlocking doors, or even using them to attack networks. If you’re not updating software, changing default passwords, or using extra security layers, your own home tech could be a backdoor for cybercriminals.
11. Drinking from public water fountains
Public water fountains used to be everywhere, and no one thought twice before taking a sip. They were seen as a convenient way to stay hydrated, especially for kids and travellers. These days, concerns about bacteria, lead contamination, and outdated pipes make them far less reliable. With better awareness of water safety and hygiene, many people now carry reusable bottles with filtered water instead.
12. Sharing personal information freely online
People once posted their full names, birthdates, and even addresses on public forums without thinking about privacy. Social media used to encourage oversharing, and few people worried about who might see it. Today, identity theft and data tracking have made oversharing a serious risk. Criminals can use seemingly harmless details to hack accounts, guess security questions, or even impersonate you. Keeping personal details private is one of the smartest things you can do.
13. Assuming only “tech people” get hacked
Cybersecurity used to feel like a concern for big businesses, governments, or people with valuable data. The average person didn’t think they’d ever be targeted. Of course, that’s not the case today! AI-driven scams and automated hacking tools mean that anyone can be a victim. Hackers don’t need to know who you are — they just need your information. Thinking you’re “too small” to be hacked is one of the biggest mistakes you can make.
