FOUNDATION
Cybersecurity Basics
The 20% of habits that give you 80% of the protection. Master these and you are already ahead of most people.
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Passwords & Access
Use a password manager
Bitwarden, 1Password, Proton Pass or Apple's/Google's built-in. Generate long unique passwords for every account.
Turn on 2FA / MFA everywhere that matters
Prefer authenticator apps or hardware keys over SMS. Enable on email first — it's the master key to your life.
Never reuse passwords
One breach = everything if you reuse. Managers solve this painlessly.
PRO TIP
Passphrases beat complex short passwords.
Four random common words + a symbol is both stronger and easier to type than P@ssw0rd!23. Use your manager's generator.
correct-horse-battery-staple-42!
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Keep Everything Updated
- → Enable automatic updates for OS (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android)
- → Browser auto-updates (Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Safari)
- → Apps from official stores only (avoid sideloading unknown APKs or .exe)
- → Router / smart device firmware — check quarterly
- → Password manager + security software
- → Phone OS — these are high value targets
Most ransomware and remote access attacks exploit known vulnerabilities that already have patches.
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Devices, Wi-Fi & Backups
Public Wi-Fi
Assume it's hostile. Use a reputable VPN (Mullvad, Proton, IVPN) when on coffee shop or hotel networks. Never do banking without VPN + HTTPS.
Backups (3-2-1 rule)
3 copies of important data. 2 different media types. 1 offsite (or cloud encrypted). Test restore once a year. Ransomware is defeated by good backups.
Lock it down
Full disk encryption on (FileVault / BitLocker). Strong device passcode / biometric. Find My / remote wipe enabled. Auto-lock after 1-2 minutes.
Next step
Go through the Interactive Tools and test your current password habits and phishing radar.