Your Handbook for Everyday Security

This series of articles is based on a handbook used as an outline for cybersecurity courses, viewed from a user perspective. The handbook, or these articles, is copyrighted by Vasco F. Gonçalves, working for SDNC sàrl.

Introduction

Staying Safe in a Connected World

Our lives are increasingly lived online. We bank, shop, communicate and store important information digitally. With so much of our personal data out there, it is essential to protect ourselves, even against cyberbullying.

This section gives you the basics of staying secure in today’s technology. Whether you are using a phone, computer or dealing with cryptocurrency, these core principles will help shield you from online threats.

We will look at everyday things like using strong passwords and avoiding email scams. You will also learn about cryptocurrency wallet security and how exchanges work. Other topics include keeping your devices protected with antivirus software and making sure apps and programs are up-to-date.

Everything is broken down into simple, clear steps. Do not worry if technology is not your thing – we will make even complex security concepts easy to grasp. Following these foundational guidelines will prepare you to safely enjoy all the digital world has to offer.

This section provides a solid starting point for anyone using the internet. Read on to build your security knowledge from the ground up. Feel empowered to strengthen your online protections and keep what matters most secure in today’s connected age.

Using a Password Manager: KeePassXC

Why Strong Passwords Matter

Passwords are like the locks on your online accounts. Using strong, different passwords for each account helps protect you from hackers trying to break in.

Creating Strong Passwords

Length Matters: Aim for passwords that are at least 16 characters long. Longer passwords are harder to crack. For instance, you may use password as passphrases as “Les chatons du château jouent joyeusement dans le jardin ensoleillé.” (billions to trillions of years to decode).
Mix it Up: Use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
Avoid Common Phrases: Steer clear of easily guessable passwords like “password123” or “I love you” or “New York” or “123456789” or …

KeePassXC: Your Secure Vault

Open Source Security: KeePassXC is an open-source password manager, meaning its code is transparent and continuously reviewed by the community for security.
Local Database: Your passwords are stored locally on your device, encrypted with a master password, enhancing security.
Cross-Platform Compatibility: KeePassXC is available for various operating systems, ensuring access across multiple devices.
Password Generator: Easily create strong and unique passwords with the built-in password generator feature.

Action Steps:

Download KeePassXC: Visit the official website ( https://keepassxc.org ) and download KeePassXC for your operating system.
Set Up Your Database: Here are some screenshots
( https://keepassxc.org/screenshots ) to set up and create a new database, and set a strong master password that you can remember but is difficult to guess.
Add Your Passwords: Enter your existing passwords or generate new ones using the password generator feature.

Remember, regardless of the password manager you choose, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible for added security.

Setting Up 2-Factor Authentication with Microsoft Authenticator, and Google Authenticator vs. Microsoft Authenticator

Security Made Simple – Part 1