Digital Safety & Security

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Updates will happen periodically when we have time~

How to Minimize Your Digital Footprint:

#1 - Use a VPN

What is a VPN?

General Description: A virtual private network, or (VPN), is a network that overlays the network you currently use. Your internet service provider, or (ISP), normally can see and track the websites you use and attach them to your digital profile. They will usually sell this data to data brokers which can then lead to anyone targeting you. With a VPN that internet traffic is encrypted, sent through your ISP, and then unencrypted at the VPN's server you are connected to. This doesn't stop websites from making a profile on you. It will only hide your IP address or (Internet Protocol address). The VPN you use could record & sell your internet traffic, so make sure you trust them!
Full Description: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virtual_private_network

Is it worth it?

Yes, as long as you use a trusted VPN it can greatly improve your security online.

What are the Pros & Cons?

Pros: Hides your internet traffic and IP address from your ISP and the websites you use. You can also use it to view content that may be restricted in your area!
Cons: Does not hide your internet traffic and IP address from the VPN service. It also does not stop websites from recording account logins and other information to make a digital profile of you.

Which VPN should I use?

I use and recommend Proton VPN.
Proton VPN is operated by Proton AG, which is based in Switzerland. This location is significant due to Switzerland's strong privacy laws. They have fought governments over not giving up user data.
It's open-source, publishes no user logs, has a built in ad blocker, malware blocker, and has one of the fastest VPN internet speeds.
No I am not sponsored; though I would if I could be!

#2 - Adjust Privacy Settings

Review and modify privacy settings on websites and social media platforms to limit what is publicly visible.
Restrict app permissions to only what is necessary for functionality.
Turn off advertising identifiers on your devices to minimize tracking by advertisers.

#3 - Limit Online Accounts

Reduce the number of online accounts you maintain. Delete any accounts you no longer use.
Be cautious about what you share online, including photos and personal information.

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How to Keep You & Your Devices Safe:

#1 - Antivirus & Anti-Malware Software

Things to consider:

If you are running Windows 11, the built in security will generally be good enough.
If you are using Linux or MacOS you will not need antivirus software.

DO NOT USE THE FOLLOWING ANTIVIRUS SOFTWARE:

McAfee: McAfee has faced various security issues over the years, including vulnerabilities in its software that could be exploited by attackers. Additionally, some users have reported problems with false positives and performance impacts on their devices.
Norton 360: Norton has faced recurring user-reported issues such as slow shutdowns on Windows 11, false positives flagging legitimate software as malware, VPN conflicts with other services, and app crashes on iOS. In 2025, Norton disclosed a major data breach exposing login credentials for nearly 200 million users, including details tied to services like Google, Apple, Meta, Spotify, PayPal, and Netflix.
Avast: Avast has faced data privacy concerns, including a significant fine from the Federal Trade Commission for selling user data, which has led to skepticism about its safety. Additionally, some users have reported difficulties in uninstalling the software and issues with false positives in malware detection.
AVG: AVG's official products provide malware protection and privacy features, but users have reported issues after a May 2026 update, including slow internet connectivity, video stuttering, and app crashes. Some users also experienced false positives blocking safe websites, requiring site exceptions to restore access.

What antivirus should I use?

I use and recommend Malwarebytes.
There has been no reports of data breaches or back-doors.
Through personal experience working with clients for 6 years, this software has saved hundreds of computers from viruses and malware.
Their malware scan tool is free to use. Only the real-time protection costs anything.
No I am not sponsored; though I would if I could be!

#2 - Browser Extensions

Things to consider:

Google Chrome actively prevents extensions such as adblockers and anti-malware based extensions from working correctly. They do this because they run their own ads on most websites.
Mozilla based browsers such as Firefox, Waterfox, and LibreWolf provide better security overall and promote adblockers.
Browser extensions such as Honey or other coupon based extensions are generally unsafe and will sell your internet traffic among other data they can scrape. BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU USE.

Recommended Extensions:

uBlock Origin: Free, open-source ad blocker extension.
Malwarebytes Browser Guard: Blocks trackers, ads, phishing, and malicious content.

#3 - General Safety Information

Always look at a link before you click it and make sure it's legitimate. Sometimes they will be one letter off and spoof the actual website; so check before putting in any of your sensitive information.
If you get a phone call from your bank or any other place where you need to give up sensitive information, make sure it's the right number. Call them back on their official number if needed.
Microsoft or antivirus companies will NEVER call you. This is a common scam to get you to give over your bank information.
Never use the same password on another account.
Make sure all your passwords have nothing to do with you. Randomness will always be more secure.
It's good practice to write down your passwords physically instead of saving them to your devices.
Keep your devices up-to-date for the best security.