(for muggles)
Software Hygiene – Stay Fresh, Stay Clean:
- Stay current: Regularly update your software, firmware, and hardware. Wondering why we keep harping on you about this? Simple. Those updates are not just for shiny new features. Usually, they are for fixing security gaps that protect you from the not-so-nice hackers out on the Interwebs.
- Trusted app sources: Steer clear of third-party app stores. Why? They can carry some downright dodgy stuff. Use Google Play, Apple App Store, the Galaxy store on Samsung or Amazon store on Kindle. Trust me, it’s less risky.
Identity Verification – Proving That You Are… You:
- Mighty passwords: Although we hate ’em, never underestimate the value of a strong password. It’s the first line of offense against any cyber threat.
- Password managers: Your friendly neighborhood bank vaults for credentials. They keep all your unique, long and strong passwords in one tidy, encrypted package for an extra layer of protection.
- Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): This is like a secret handshake. It’s another way of making sure it’s really you. Enable 2FA wherever possible.
- 2FA Backup codes: Protect your backup codes. Why? Because if you lose your phone (or it decides to take a bath), these will be your lifeline.
Security Habits – Don’t Be An Easy Target:
- Breach alerts: Firefox Monitor or HaveIBeenPwned are your early warning systems. They alert you if your info appears in a data dump on the dark web. If it does, change your passwords ASAP.
- Block trackers and ads: Browser extensions like Privacy Badger or uBlock Origin (Lite) aren’t just about avoiding annoyances. They also stop digital eavesdroppers from tracking your every move.
- Phishing baits? Just say no: If an email or text seems suspicious, it probably is. Phishing is a common way for attackers to steal your credentials, so steer clear of those unsolicited messages.
- Public charging safety: Avoid publicly available charging cords or USB ports. Just like you wouldn’t share a toothbrush with a stranger, you shouldn’t trust public charging options. You never know what they might be harboring.
- Bookmark those sites: Bookmarking frequently visited banking and brokerage sites helps avoid stumbling into a fake website that’s all set to nab your credentials.
- Watch your credit: Monitor your credit lines with a credit and identity theft monitoring service. It’s like having a dedicated detective on the case of your financial security.
- Wi-Fi wisdom: Secure your home Wi-Fi by changing your router’s default password and username, and set up a separate network for guests. That way, even if your guests are unknowingly carrying malware on their devices, it won’t reach your precious smart devices. If you’re advanced, consider using a DNS service like OpenVPN, Quad9s or 1.1.1.1.
Remember, following these steps will make you a less attractive target for cyber attackers. Stay vigilant, stay safe, and make these habits part of your daily digital life.
Also, you dont need a VPN.
See also:
https://www.morganstanley.com/articles/personal-cybersecurity
https://github.com/Lissy93/personal-security-checklist/blob/master/2_TLDR_Short_List.md
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