Calm Code

Public Security Announcement

I was planning to write up a longer post about protecting your privacy online. This is not that one. This is a quick call to action to make sure you are safe in the short term.

There has been a few major data breaches in Australia recently and I suspect it will continue to get worse.

Here is a quick list of what I'm doing and maybe you should look into as well.

  1. Use a password manager and create unique passwords per website.
  2. Even if you are writing them down in post its or something, it's fine for now.
  3. Unsubscribe from all newsletters that you don't need.
  4. Don't click on links or open/run files unless you know who it's from.
  5. Even if you know the person you sent it, ask if they sent it and scan it if possible for viruses.
  6. Check every link and every domain for typos and make sure you are going to the correct site every time.
  7. Always use HTTPS.
  8. If you are not sure search for the relevant page and navigate from the main website.
  9. Close all online accounts you don't use.
  10. Remove all credit card information stored on websites for convenience.
  11. Most of my recurring subscriptions go off a limited balance debit card rather than a credit card.
  12. Reset your login passwords at least every few months. This is probably not worth if you are slightly changing your last password. Once a year using a random password maybe enough.
  13. Use 2 factor authentication where available. 2FA using an authentication app is the best. Make sure your 2FA app is not limited to one device. SMS 2FA is less secure but better than none.
  14. Use an email alias/forwarding service to protect hackers from tracking your profile across websites.
  15. Become more aware of online security and how to protect your privacy.

Good luck out there 👋🏼.