Digital Security check in

Building and Maintaining Your Online Presence

1. Create and Control Your Website:
   • Build your own website as your central online hub rather than relying on platforms like Patreon, Ko-fi, or social media. This ensures your content isn’t vulnerable to policy changes or platform shutdowns.
   • Choose a reputable hosting provider with a focus on security and uptime.
   • Regularly back up your website and data to prevent loss in case of technical issues or cyberattacks.
2. Avoid Over-reliance on Meta and Similar Platforms:
   • Do not use Meta (Facebook, Instagram) as your primary business page. Use your website as the main touchpoint for your audience.
   • Diversify your communication and marketing channels to avoid being tied to any one platform.

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Protecting Your Devices and Online Activities

1. Physical and Network Security:
   • Avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, especially for sensitive tasks. Use a VPN if absolutely necessary.
   • Turn off Bluetooth and other wireless connections when not in use to minimize exposure to potential attacks.
   • Avoid using public USB ports for charging; instead, use a personal USB power adapter or portable charger.
2. Device Settings:
   • Avoid using facial recognition or fingerprint biometrics to unlock your devices, as these can be used without your consent.
   • Use a strong alphanumeric PIN or password (preferably longer than six characters).
   • Set your device to lock automatically after one minute or less of inactivity.
3. Update and Maintain:
   • Regularly update your devices, operating systems, and apps to patch security vulnerabilities.

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Email and Account Management

1. Separation of Professional and Personal Accounts:
   • Never use your professional email for personal social media accounts or unrelated activities.
   • For business-related social media accounts, coordinate with legal and marketing teams to maintain clear boundaries and compliance.
2. Authentication Practices:
   • Avoid using single sign-on (e.g., “Sign in with Google/Facebook”) for third-party accounts.
   • Use unique usernames and strong, unique passwords for all accounts.
3. Additional Email Security Tips:
   • Use a secure email provider with robust encryption.
   • Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for your email and all critical accounts.

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Mobile Device Privacy Settings

1. Control Data Sharing:
   • Set location permissions to “Ask Every Time” or “While Using the App” instead of “Always On.”
   • Disable permissions for apps that don’t require access to sensitive data like location, microphone, or camera.
2. iPhone-Specific Tips:
   • Set AirDrop to “Contacts Only” or “Receiving Off” to avoid unsolicited file transfers.
   • Enable “Filter Unknown Senders” in the Messages settings to reduce spam and potential phishing attempts.
3. Other Recommendations:
   • Avoid using your personal phone number for professional accounts or vice versa.
   • Use a virtual phone number or separate SIM cards to maintain clear boundaries.

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Awareness and Precautions

1. Monitor Your Surroundings:
   • Be mindful of surveillance cameras in public spaces, including grocery stores and other retail environments.
   • Understand that certain stores may restrict or monitor internet access on their premises.
2. Stay Vigilant Against Threats:
   • Be cautious of unsolicited links or requests for personal information, even from trusted contacts.
   • Regularly review privacy policies for apps and services you use to understand how your data is handled.

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Final Tips

• Education and Awareness:
  • Stay informed about the latest privacy threats and tools to mitigate them.
  • Periodically review your security practices and make adjustments as needed.
• Use Privacy-Focused Tools:
  • Consider browsers like Firefox, and search engines like DuckDuckGo for increased privacy.
  • Use password managers to generate and store strong passwords securely.

Learn more about tools available to you: https://ssd.eff.org

Need help? Get in touch!