Tips to Stay Secure Online
- Use strong and unique passwords. Do not create passwords based on your pet’s name, kids, spouse, etc.
- Use a password manager such as Bitwarden or use a password notebook
- Password protect devices (phones, laptops, iPad, etc.)
- Activate Screen-Lock when Idle
- Don’t leave your device unattended
- Turn on two-factor authentication on your email/social accounts
- Install the latest software & app updates to all your devices
- Use an anti-virus such as Bitdefender
- Use a paid Virtual Private Network
- Use a virtual machine for sandboxing your research
- Use encrypted email such as Protonmail and encrypted chat such as Signal
- Use webcam covers
- Use privacy filters
- Read and understand the terms of service for the apps you use
- Adjust privacy settings on social media platforms
- Delete old unused accounts
- Use a secure search engine like search.brave.com or startpage.com
- Turn off Bluetooth when it’s not in use
- If you use public Wifi at coffee shops, hotels, airports, use a Virtual Private Network
- Check the permissions apps ask for prior to downloading
- Educate yourself and family/friends about online privacy and security.