Privacy Checklist
Use this quick guide to help give yourself, friends, or family a few simple tips to get started on taking back their privacy and security online.
Update Your Software
Make sure to turn on Automatic Updates for your operating systems (Windows, MacOS, Linux), browsers, and apps.
Change Your Search Engine
Instead of searching the internet with Google, who tracks your every query, try a privacy respecting search engine such as Startpage.
Use a password manager
Don't reuse your passwords or save them in your browser. Use an encrypted password manager like Bitwarden.
Use 2-step authentication
2FA protects your accounts even if your password falls into the wrong hands. Check out your 2FA options here
Use encrypted email
Even encrypted email is one of the least secure modes of communication. But if you must use it, use an E2EE encrypted option such as ProtonMail
Use an encrypted messanger
When you can, avoid sending SMS texts and instead use a secure messanger such as Signal or Riot.
Use a VPN for private browsing
A good VPN will keep your browsing habits private and secure. We recommend ProtonVPN, but you can see other options here.
Always backup your data
You should always have a backup of your data, either in the cloud with Nextcloud, a physical hard drive, or even better, both!
Use a longer mobile PIN
4-digit PINs are easy to guess. Use a 6-8 digit PIN to enhance your security. After all, your phone holds your most valuable secrets.
Use common sense
Think before sharing personal information or clicking a link in your email. Can you confirm the site or source is trustworthy and secure? Keep learning & help others along the way.