Privacy and Security Runbook
1. Start Here
1.1 Overview
This is a plain‑English, step‑by‑step runbook introducing general security and privacy concepts a...
1.2 Core Concepts
Everything in this guide flows from these four concepts. Keep them in mind and most day‑to‑day de...
1.3 How to Use This Guide
There is a lot of information in this runbook, and at first glance, it might be intimidating. Tak...
2. Accounts and Identity
2.1 Authentication (passwords, MFA, passkeys, biometrics)
Core Concepts: Protect Yourself, Protect Your Data When you log into a computer or website with ...
2.2 Scam and Social Engineering Defense
Core Concepts: Protect Yourself, Protect Your Data Humans are the weakest link in security. Even...
2.3 Identity and Cloud Account Safety
Core Concept: Protect Yourself, Protect Your Data Your identity and your cloud accounts are two ...
3. Your Devices
3.1 Software and App Safety
Core Concepts: Minimize Your Exposure, Protect Your Data Malware often disguises itself as legit...
3.2 Mobile Device Hardening
Core Concepts: Protect Your Data, Minimize Your Exposure Your phone carries more personal data t...
3.3 Operating System Hardening
Core Concepts: Minimize Your Exposure, Protect Your Data Your operating system is the foundation...
3.4 Physical Security
Core Concepts: Minimize Your Exposure, Protect Your Data All the passwords, encryption, and fire...
3.5 Data Lifecycle and Disposal
Core Concept: Protect Your Data Data doesn't just disappear when you delete it. When you click "...
4. Network and Browsing
4.1 Browser Hygiene
Core Concepts: Protect Yourself, Minimize Your Exposure Your web browser and email are your prim...
4.2 Home Wifi Security
Core Concepts: Protect Your Data, Minimize Your Exposure Your home WiFi network is the gateway t...
4.3 Smart Home and IoT Devices
Core Concepts: Minimize Your Exposure, Protect Your Data Smart home and other Internet of Things...
4.4 Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
Core Concepts: Protect Yourself, Protect Your Data VPNs are one of the most misunderstood securi...
4.5 Travel Guide
Core Concepts: All Four Travel introduces unique risks. Prepare before you go and stay vigilant ...
5. Backups and Recovery
6. Incident Playbooks
6.1 How to Use These Playbooks
When you discover a security incident: Don't panic - Take a breath; most incidents are recov...
6.1 Account Compromise
Compromised Email Account Signs your email might be compromised: Can't log in / password does...
6.3 Personal Data Incidents
Identity Theft Signs of identity theft: Accounts or loans you didn't open appearing on cred...
6.4 Device Incidents
Ransomware Infection Signs of ransomware Files suddenly encrypted with unfamiliar extension...