SEC101 · Everyday Security
A simple guide to personal information security
Start here: 3 free wins this week
Do these before buying or switching anything.
Lock the phone
Use a 6+ digit PIN or passcode, turn on auto-lock, and keep OS/app updates automatic.
Protect the accounts
Turn on MFA for email, bank, Instagram/TikTok/Discord/Telegram, and save recovery codes.
Practice scam recovery
Learn the red flags first, then keep the “if it already happened” steps handy.
Security
Protection from hackers and attackers. Strong passwords, 2FA, and avoiding phishing keep your accounts safe from criminals.
Privacy
Protection from tracking and surveillance. Private email, encrypted messaging, and tracker-blocking hide your data from companies.
Your Security Stack
Default recommendations for most everyday users.
Recommendations reviewed June 2026. Verify pricing and features before switching.Bitwarden
Strong free password manager with open-source clients and broad platform support.
Brave
Daily browser with built-in ad and tracker blocking.
Proton Mail
Private email with zero-access encryption for stored mail and E2EE between Proton users.
Signal
Encrypted chat from a nonprofit with minimal server-side metadata.
Enable 2FA everywhere! Use an authenticator app or hardware key when available. Avoid SMS if you have a stronger option.
We take no money from these recommendations. Prefer free built-in protections first, then switch tools when the benefit is worth the setup.
Explore the essentials
Short guides with checklists and links you can act on now.