Recommended Tips For Safe Internet Use [WIP]

The Internet is an amazing resource for staying connected, communicating, working, learning, and more. However, it's important to use it safely and effectively. As technology improves rapidly and artificial intelligence (AI) makes our lives easier, we must also be vigilant against the rise of scams and malware. Let's stay educated on how to remain safe and take back our privacy. Some of these tips might encourage sacrificing convenience for safety, but a few extra minutes here and there can save you lots of time in the event of an attack or breach. One very important thing to note is that you can have the safest device in the world, but YOU are your own worst enemy. If you follow bad habits, then it won't matter. Consider reading the tips on this page for enlightenment with online privacy and security.

Protect Your Privacy

Your online data is very valuable. Whether it's the usual companies, bad actors, etc., your data is collected and used for all kinds of purposes. You might think, "that's no big deal, I've got nothing to hide!" Unfortunately, this is not a great way of thinking about it and your data can be used more maliciously than you think. Here are some recommendations for reducing or eliminating your data being farmed:

    Use a privacy-focused web browser such as Firefox and disable...
    Use an ad blocker. uBlock Origin is an...
    Use Container tabs in Firefox. This can help you keep...
    Before sharing or clicking links, remove everything including and after...
    Avoid downloaded applications and use web versions whenever possible. Downloaded...
    Don't share too much about yourself online. Depending on where...

Security

You don't need a Degree in Cybersecurity to learn how to stay secure. Follow these practices to protect your accounts, personal information, home network, and more:

    Use a Linux distribution as your primary Operating System (OS)...
    NEVER re-use the same account password across the Internet. You...
    Use 2 Factor Authentication (2FA/TFA or multi-factor Authentication) in addition...
    Avoid checking the "Remember Me" or "Stay Logged In" options...

Detect & Avoid Scams

Scams are everywhere and we need to know how to identify and avoid them. Scammers are getting more sophisticated by the day so it might be difficult to identify them all, especially if not fully paying attention or moving quickly. We can still follow some common practices to stay safe most of the time.

    Check the e-mail sender ALWAYS. This means expanding the sender...
    If it sounds too good to be true, it probably...

Smartphones

Smartphones are revolutionary pocket-sized computers that we can take anywhere. It's a tool we use for managing our lives, keeping in touch, receiving notifications, entertaining ourselves, taking photographs, and more. Many of us pretty much store our entire lives on it so it's important to keep it secure. Pick a good device and mobile operating system. You should stay away from Apple devices when possible, but if you're already trapped in their walled garden, you can still keep yourself safe.

    Choose Android. Not just any Android though. There are many...
    Do not use Bluetooth in public. It's best to completely...
    Use a VPN when you can, as much as you...
    If you can't use a VPN, at least configure a...
    Use Orion Browser if you have iOS and...
    Secure your Lock Screen. DO NOT use fingerprint unlock, face...
    Use encrypted messaging services like Signal when handling sensitive information...