Don't Get Compromised
I've been binge-listening to the Darknet Diaries podcast for about two years now, and I've done some research on cyber security. I've found that most people don't get hacked by some genius hacker using clever exploits. They get hacked because they're basically walking around with a sign that says "Please steal my stuff".
I'm talking about using the same password for everything, clicking every suspicious link you receive, and thinking that "Rufus123" is somehow secure because it has your pet's name AND numbers (it's not).
What You'll Learn
Foundational Knowledge
Updates and backups don't sound very exciting. But, this is where most people mess up. You can't have good security without the basics.
Passwords: Barriers to Entry
Recycling passwords is basically like using the same key for your house, car, and office. One key gets copied, and suddenly someone's breaking into your house and using your car to escape.
Don't Take the Bait
After listening to many Darknet Diaries episodes, I can tell you that phishing attacks have become extremely common. But they're still detectable if you know what to look for.
Create a Digital Fortress
Nowadays, our devices are basically extensions of ourselves. If someone gets access to them, they get access to everything. Time to make them actually secure instead of just hoping for the best.
Security Resources
Resources to help you check if you've already been compromised.
Why This Matters
- You're not isolated. When your stuff gets compromised, hackers don't stop there. They'll use your accounts to scam your friends, family, and coworkers. It's like a virus that spreads through your social circle.
- It's not just about the money. Sure, getting your bank accounts compromised is bad, but having your identity used to send malicious, phishing emails to coworkers is difficult to explain to your boss.
- You're not just a statistic. Hackers will target regular people because they're easier to fool and less likely to practice good security. You're not too small to be interesting to them.
- This isn't being paranoid, it's preparation. Hope for the best, prepare for the worst. Don't let it be you.
Real Talk
The goal here isn't to turn you into a paranoid conspiracy theorist or make you think every email is trying to steal your identity. It's to give you the knowledge and tools you need to protect yourself from the most common and easily preventable threats. Because in today's world, basic digital security isn't optional, it's just common sense.
We need to stop making it easy for cyber criminals.