Posted At: Jan 07, 2026 - 27 Views
New year, new tech rules.
In January 2026, several major platforms rolled out updates that affect almost every smartphone and laptop user in India, whether you run a shop, attend college, manage an office, or simply use WhatsApp daily.
The good news is that none of these changes require expensive upgrades.
The better news is that at hSECURITIES, we explain everything in plain language, without technical jargon.
Below are the five most important TechUpdates of 2026 you should know.
1. WhatsApp: End-to-End Encrypted Backup Is Now Default (Jan 10, 2026)
What changed: WhatsApp now enforces end-to-end encrypted backups for new users. Old unencrypted backups stored on Google Drive will be automatically deleted after 90 days.
Why it matters: Your private chats, UPI IDs, OTP messages, and family photos are no longer accessible even if someone hacks your Google account.
Action to take: Open WhatsApp, go to Settings, then Chats, then Chat Backup. Enable End-to-End Encrypted Backup and store the 64-digit recovery key safely offline.
2. UPI: Mandate Approval Now Requires Video Selfie (RBI Pilot, Jan 1, 2026)
What changed: For recurring payments such as subscriptions and loan EMIs, apps like PhonePe and Google Pay now require a five-second video selfie along with your UPI PIN.
Why it matters: This blocks AI voice scams where fraudsters trick users into approving payment mandates over phone calls.
Action to take: Update your UPI apps and always complete the video selfie step. Never skip it, as it acts as your protection.
3. Windows 10 Support Ends on October 14, 2026
What changed: Microsoft will officially stop providing security updates for Windows 10 after this date.
Why it matters: Computers without security updates become easy targets for viruses and ransomware, especially in small offices, shops, and tuition centers.
Smart move:
If your PC is less than four years old, upgrade to Windows 11 for free if eligible.
If your PC is older, use it only for offline work such as typing and calculations. Avoid internet browsing and online banking.
4. Google Search Now Prioritizes Local-First Websites
What changed: Google is ranking websites higher if they load in under two seconds on slow networks, display local contact details such as address and phone number, and offer content in regional languages like Punjabi or Hindi.
Why it matters: Your local business or institute website can now rank for searches like “computer course Mandi Gobindgarh” without spending money on ads.
Action to take: We teach students how to optimize websites for this exact update as part of our Digital Marketing course.
5. Android 14: Approximate Location Option Removed
What changed: Apps can no longer request vague location access such as city-level data. Users must either allow precise location or deny access completely.
Why it matters: This prevents apps from silently tracking your exact neighborhood, which significantly improves privacy.
Action to take: Go to Settings, then Privacy, then Permission Manager, open Location settings, and deny location access to unnecessary apps.
Free Help at hSECURITIES
As part of our Computer Basics course (₹499) and Digital Marketing course (₹1,499), we provide:
Weekly TechUpdates Workshop every Sunday at 11 AM
One-on-one device setup support for enrolled students
Punjabi-English handouts designed for beginners, no technical background required
“Sir ne WhatsApp backup secure kiya, ab mummy bhi kehndi hai ‘ab tension nahi.’”
– Harpreet K., Student
Stay Updated. Stay Safe.
Call or WhatsApp: +91 86996 53049
Location: hSECURITIES, Adarsh Nagar, Opposite Verma Ornaments, Near Kochhar PG, Mandi Gobindgarh
New Batches: Computer Basics starting Jan 10 | Digital Marketing starting Jan 15
Technology changes fast. Your safety should never depend on luck.
