I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it anymore!
Howard Beale, Network motion picture

Start 2020 with a privacy goal.

We can do simple things to improve and protect our privacy and security. Keeping the mindset that your data belongs to you and no one is entitled to your information is the first step. Make a conscious effort to share less, obscure information, and clean up your data ‘footprint’.

Adopt the mindset.

One of the hardest hurdles I faced when I started was mental preparation. Practice ways to hold on to your data. So you want to use the new discount card at CVS? Throw out a fake name and phone number. Have a false persona in mind all the time. Have more than one! Then have a way to remember or find the information later. Realize that no company is entitled to know or SELL your personally identifiable information. Have fun with it! Share your CVS phone number with friends and family and let everyone use the discounts. The coupons will be more interesting that way. Hey, who needs this hemorrhoid cream BOGO?

Lock it down.

Your online security is key. Add a VPN on your phones and devices at home. We use ProtonVPN, but do your own research. We were impressed with their encryption and privacy policies. Upgrade your WiFi security at home. Make it hidden and obscure your identity if it’s visible. Add two-factor authentication (2FA) to your accounts. Recheck your visibility on social media. Check your kids’ accounts. Examine your privacy settings at least monthly on all your accounts. Google your names. What is visible? What is better left private?

Get some gear.

Use some handy devices to hang on to your data. I never leave home without my charging cable for my phone/tablet. Your data can be stolen when you plug in. Pick up a few USB Charge Defense plugs to prevent devices from accessing your data while you charge. Cover your webcams and phone cameras and microphones with blockers. Use Faraday bags for your digital devices like phones, tablets, and even your car key fobs. Carry your cards in RFID blocking wallets and purses. This includes your credit cards, licenses, hotel keys, military IDs, and passport cards. Protect yourself with physical locks when traveling, especially if you use AirBnB. Where are you vulnerable? Everywhere. Get in an Uber and think about how many ways your data is exposed. What could a criminal place in a car that could steal your personal information from your phone and wallet?

Get involved.

Privacy activism is a real thing. My website primarily focuses on safety for military families, but there are plenty of others who take different approaches. I use hundreds of resources from legal organizations, privacy experts, law enforcement, journalists, and others. You can find privacy and security experts on all social media. Start looking and reading. Invest in your security and learn how to help your children learn to safely interact with the world.

Have a happy and safe 2020!