LiveStream Presentation Notes:
Making your password an asset, not a liability
- Use a password manager
- Features typically include
- Ability to generate strong passwords automatically
- Ability to share passwords with trusted people
- Access from anywhere via the web or a mobile app
- Emergency access. In the event something happens to you, you can designate one or more trusted people that can access your vault after a period of time
- Audits your existing passwords and makes recommendations (too weak, used in multiple accounts, etc.)
- Inexpensive (free to ~$6 month depending on features)
- Ability to safeguard your vault with 2FA
- Use 2FA whenever possible
- Avoid SMS, use only as a last resort.
Encryption Tips for the non-geek:
- iPhone/iPad
- Most modern apple devices encrypt by default
- Depending on the age, it’s protected by a 4 or 6 digit PIN
- Turn off “Simple Passcode” to use a more complex password
- Set “Require Passcode” to “Immediately”
- Confirm at the bottom of the Passcode settings page it says “Data protection is enabled”
- Android
- The latest versions are encrypted by default
- SD cards are not encrypted by default, if you use one you must turn it on in Settings –>Security
- Confirm your phone is encrypted by going to Settings –>Security –>Encryption
- If you only see the option to encrypt an SD card and your phone is newer it’s likely already encrypted
- Laptop
“Weaponize your portable device”
- Encrypt it
- Protect it with a strong password
- Enable “Find me” options
- Use a VPN to stay secure, especially if traveling abroad.
- Conceals your online activity
- Some VPNs allow you to use anonymized servers, allowing access to the real web even in countries with internet censorship
- Safeguards your use of WIFI networks, even open networks (i.e. no WIFI password)