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Security tips and tricks to avoid security trips

Use a password manager

(Or, if you have few passwords, memorize them)

Slant has a nice list of password managers. Personally, I use Firefox's built-in solution because I don't like my passwords to be hosted on somebody else's computer.

I also keep a few key passwords (like my disk encryption key) on paper, so that I won't be locked out of my laptop if I forget it.

Lock all your screens

Why? So that people with physical access to your device cannot easily see its contents.

Find your devices

If your smartphone, tablet, or laptop has a 'Find my Device' feature, consider activating it so that you can locate the device or remotely wipe its contents should it be lost, stolen, or confiscated.

Update everything

(Even your router's firmware)

Most of the stuff one uses on a daily basis will have a mechanism to annoy you if it's out of date (browser, file editor, etc.) or will update without your consent (Windows, Android, etc.). However, your router's firmware can stay out of date for years without complaining. Same with your BIOS' firmware (if you're not using Apple). Give them some love; they support everything you do.

Email is Satan's playground

The dance with the Devil will last you forever. However, if you have sold your soul already and have to use it (like me), do so without clicking on links, downloading attachments, the basics.

Use Have I Been Pwned

There are technical ways to check if something fishy is happening with your computer: basically, log checking. If you don't have time for that, the easiest thing to do is check if your computer has been successfully exploited by using Troy Hunt's beautiful service (some bias present). If you have some more time, go to the dark web and look around for your identity.

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