What is Digital Hygiene?
Digital hygiene refers to the daily habits and practices that keep your digital life clean, secure, and private. Just like personal hygiene prevents illness, digital hygiene prevents security breaches and privacy violations.
Password Management
The Rules
- Use a unique password for every account
- Minimum 16 characters, ideally 20+
- Use a password manager (KeePassXC, Bitwarden)
- Enable 2FA on all important accounts
- Prefer hardware keys over SMS/TOTP
password-strength
# Weak (Don't use)
Password123! → Cracked in seconds
# Strong (Passphrase)
correct-horse-battery-staple-nebula → Centuries to crack
# Best (Random)
Kx9#mP2$vL7@nQ4&wR8 → Generated by password manager
Software Updates
Unpatched software is the #1 attack vector. Updates fix security vulnerabilities.
Operating System
Enable automatic updates
CriticalBrowser
Update immediately when available
CriticalApplications
Regular update schedule
ImportantFirmware
Router, BIOS, devices
ImportantSecure Browsing Habits
Daily Practices
- Check for HTTPS before entering data
- Don't click suspicious links
- Use ad blockers (uBlock Origin)
- Clear cookies regularly or use containers
- Disable JavaScript on untrusted sites
- Review permissions granted to sites
Browser Extensions
uBlock Origin
Block ads and trackers
EssentialHTTPS Everywhere
Force encrypted connections
EssentialCookie AutoDelete
Auto-remove cookies
RecommendedEmail Hygiene
Phishing Awareness
Verify sender addresses, hover over links before clicking
Attachment Caution
Don't open unexpected attachments, even from known contacts
Disable Remote Images
Prevents tracking pixels from loading
- Use separate emails for different purposes
- Use alias services for signups
- Unsubscribe from unwanted newsletters
- Consider encrypted email (ProtonMail)
Data Minimization
The best way to protect data is to not have it in the first place.
Principles
- Only provide required information
- Use fake data for non-essential fields
- Regularly delete old accounts
- Clear browser history and downloads
- Remove unused apps
- Review app permissions regularly
Security Routine
Weekly Checklist
- ☐ Check for software updates
- ☐ Review recent account activity
- ☐ Clear browser data
- ☐ Backup important data
- ☐ Review app permissions
Monthly Checklist
- ☐ Review connected services/apps
- ☐ Check for data breaches (haveibeenpwned.com)
- ☐ Update recovery information
- ☐ Test backups
- ☐ Review privacy settings on social media