My privacy journey
Last year I started my privacy journey. I wanted to take control of my data and support companies that align with my values.
It's easy to go overboard with privacy. An important part of my own journey has been to find a balance between privacy and convenience. One way to do that is to think through your threat model.
Ask yourself questions like:
- What do I want to protect?
- Who do I want to protect it from?
- How likely is it that I will need to protect it?
- How bad are the consequences if I fail?
- How much trouble am I willing to go through to try to prevent potential consequences?
What I've done so far
I've secured my online accounts with a password manager and an authenticator. The password manager creates and stores strong passwords for me. The two-factor authenticator adds an extra layer of protection by sending me codes. Both tools have been game changers. I recommend them to all Internet users, regardless of threat model.
I've also bought an encrypted email service. Not everyone might care about this precaution, but I want to support companies in line with my values.
"If you're not paying for the product, you become the product" as the saying goes. These simple steps have helped reclaim parts of my online privacy. They’ve made me feel more safe online.
Nothing is of course perfect. And we'll never be 100 % secure. But it's important to think about these questions, and to take action. Vote with the tools you use, and the companies you support. I'd like to believe that it can make a difference in the long run.
Privacy resources
I am grateful to the privacy resources offered by A Caffeinated Blog. Their post was the starting point for my own privacy journey. Thank you!
I've found below resources to be particularly helpful.
The ultimate personal security checklist
Where are you on your privacy journey? Which tools do you use and what has helped you the most? I'd love to hear from you.