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Trusted Cybersecurity Tools for Your Family
Recommended Online Security Resources to Keep You Safe in 2025
In today's connected world, securing your family's online presence isn't just an option—it's a necessity.
With 17.6 million Americans facing identity theft yearly (averaging $1,343 in losses), investing in protection is a smart choice.
Below you'll find our tested and trusted security tools, organized by category. Each recommendation includes who it's best for and why we use it ourselves.
Note: We earn a commission from purchases through our links, but we only recommend tools we trust with our own families. There is no extra cost to you.
Table of Contents
Books
For Parents:
“Extreme Privacy: What It Takes To Disappear” by Michael Bazzell. An amazing book by a leading expert in privacy protection. This one is a classic and one of our favorite books.
"Mothers Against Cyber Crime" by Allie Hunter. We love this book because it transforms complex cybersecurity concepts into accessible, relatable content that helps parents understand and address critical digital safety issues without requiring technical expertise.
"Cyber Smart: Five Habits to Protect Your Family, Money, and Identity" by Bart McDonough Clear. Practical advice for modern families.
For Kids:
Elementary School (Ages 4-8)
"Cyber Safe: A Dog's Guide to Internet Security" teaches essential online safety concepts through the adventures of a friendly dog named Lacey.
"Clicker the Cat" series, a Mom's Choice Award winner, helps preschoolers learn about screen time, safe web searching, and avoiding online trolls.
"The Super Smart Cyber Guide for Kids" engages children in developing smart digital habits through educational narratives and hands-on activities.
Middle School (Ages 9-14)
"Cyberama" follows Maya, a seventh-grader who fights cybercrime with AI robot companions, making complex security concepts accessible and engaging
"Cybersecurity Explorers" helps students understand how to protect themselves from cyber scams and hackers through an engaging storyline
Videos/Shows:
"Cyberchase" series on PBS Kids Educational episodes about online safety. This show teaches mathematical concepts and problem-solving skills by embedding them in exciting cyber-adventures, making it an excellent resource for families looking to build their children's confidence with numbers while keeping them engaged with relatable characters and storylines.
Password Management
Perfect for families needing to securely share passwords and store sensitive documents. User-friendly, affordable, and includes secure password sharing between family members.
Cost: Free to start, but you can upgrade to $40/year for Family Plan
Parental Controls & Monitoring
Perfect for Catholic families seeking comprehensive protection against pornography and inappropriate content.
Uses advanced AI scanning and accountability partnerships to help parents create a safe digital environment aligned with Catholic values.
Covenant Eyes' Advantages:
AI-powered scanning detects and blocks inappropriate images in real-time
Accountability reports sent to trusted partners (parents, mentors, or spouses)
Works across all devices (phones, tablets, computers)
Uninstall protection
Educational resources for Catholic families
Screen monitoring that respects privacy while maintaining protection
Cost: $17/month for the whole family
Free Trial: 30 days with code CYBERCATH30
Would you like more details about implementation or help getting started? Email us at [email protected] for guidance.
Antivirus & Security
Norton 360
All-in-one protection including antivirus, VPN, password manager, and parental controls. Best value for families with multiple devices.
Identity Theft Protection
Identity Guard Ultra Family
Monitors the whole family's personal information, credit scores, and dark web presence. Includes identity theft insurance and recovery assistance.
Secure Backup
Backblaze
Unlimited automatic backup for all family computers. Simple to set up and manage, with excellent disaster recovery options.
Network Security
Firewalla
Whole-home network protection that's easy to manage. Blocks threats, manages screen time, and protects all connected devices.
Secure Messaging
Signal (Free)
End-to-end encrypted messaging app that's perfect for private family communications. Simple to use and completely free.
Browser Security
Brave Browser (Free)
Privacy-focused browser that blocks trackers and ads by default. Great for families wanting a safer browsing experience without complexity.
VPN Service
ProtonVPN
Secure connection for up to 10 devices, with parental controls and malware blocking built-in. Swiss-based for strong privacy protection.
Safe Email
ProtonMail
End-to-end encrypted email service that's easy to use. Includes custom domain support and password-protected emails.
Why these specific recommendations:
All tools have strong reputations for security
Family-friendly interfaces that don't require technical expertise
Reasonable pricing for family budgets
Regular updates and responsive customer support
Strong privacy policies and transparent business practices
Remember:
Not every family needs every tool. Start with password management and parental controls, then add others based on your specific needs and concerns.
Would you like more details about any of these tools or guidance on which ones to prioritize for your family's specific situation?
Reach out to us for free, personalized guidance.