What’s the safest way to transfer iPhone and iPad photos and videos to a Windows laptop?

A transfer service can be convenient, but check its privacy settings and avoid uploading sensitive photos unless you understand how the files are handled. For personal media, a direct USB transfer or a local-network tool is generally preferable because the files stay on your devices. Whichever method you choose, transfer a few files first, confirm the photos and videos open, and keep a second backup before removing anything from the phone or tablet.