The Privacy Paradox Tip Sheet

Note to Self - A podcast by WNYC Studios

Many of you told us that the Privacy Paradox challenges freaked you out. But you were happy to take back even just a little control. Want to go further? Here's what you can do to protect your personal information.

We also heard from you that this problem is bigger than you realized. Keep reading for our ideas on what we can all do, together, to create the web we want to see in the world. 

 

THE BASICS

Fun bonus:

GET SERIOUS

Okay, you have strong passwords. And two-factor on all your accounts. And you’re using Signal. Well, it’s on your phone. Right?

Then here are your next steps.

Fun bonus:

    Take a break from any voice activated technology you have.   Read the ten original amendments in the Bill of Rights.  Peruse the report President Obama received from the bi-partisan Commission on Enhancing National Cybersecurity. Manoush likes Principle #7: Because human behavior and technology are intertwined and vital to cybersecurity, technologies and products should make the secure action easy to do and the less secure action more difficult to do.  
GO HARDCORE

You’ve done the basics and then some. You have the stamina and want to take it to the next level.

Fun bonus:

 

Three Things You Can Do to Protect All Our Digital Rights

This isn’t all on you. These are society-level problems that require collective response. Here’s some ways to take action.

1. GO STRAIGHT TO THE TOP

2. CHECK OUT THESE (NON-PARTISAN) GROUPS WORKING ON PRIVACY

3. TALK ABOUT PRIVACY OPENLY

    At workTalk to your IT department what the protocol is if you get hacked or doxxed. Ask team members to check with whom they’ve shared documents outside the company. Have a team meeting out of the office or off-the-record to promote open discussion.
    At homeShow parents, kids, or grandparents how to put a password lock on their phone and change privacy settings. Consider getting everyone on the texting app Signal. Talk to kids especially about why having a private inner life is vital.
    With all the other people in your lifeAsk your babysitters, doctors, teachers, accountants and anyone else relevant to be mindful of protecting your personal information. Have them ask you before they post pictures of your kids or tag you in photos. Just telling them you have privacy on the brain could make them more conscientious.

4. BONUS FOR TECHNOLOGISTS

 

This should go without saying, but just in case: We’re not suggesting that you use any of these tools or tips to hide illegal activity or nefarious deeds. We’re suggesting you use them because the U.S. Constitution affords us a right to be secure in our persons, houses, papers and effects. And digital privacy is the 21st Century version of that.

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