–By Carl Hendrix, Ideon Science Park start up InnoviGuard
Let’s face it—the internet is a digital jungle, and bad actors are lurking everywhere, just waiting for you to slip up. If you’re someone who enjoys a little paranoia in your life (like yours truly), here are the top ten cybersecurity no-no’s you should avoid at all costs. Humor included, because why not?
1. Don’t Scan Random QR Codes
You see a QR code sticker slapped over the original on a vending machine or poster? Walk away. That innocent-looking square could send you to malware city faster than you can say “Whoops.” Trust me, it’s not worth the risk—unless you’re trying to win “Most Gullible User” at the hacker awards.
2. Never Use Public USB Charging Stations
“Juice jacking” is not a trendy new diet but a sneaky way for hackers to siphon your data or inject malware into your device. Bring your own charger or a power bank, because using those public USB ports is like drinking from a sketchy water fountain in a zombie apocalypse.
3. Don’t Trust Unencrypted Wi-Fi Networks
That free airport or coffee shop Wi-Fi? It’s basically a buffet for hackers. Even encrypted sites can sometimes be compromised. So unless you enjoy being the “main course” at a cyber crook’s feast, stick to using a VPN or your mobile hotspot.
4. Never Borrow USB Cables from Strangers (or Me)
You might think, “It’s just a cable. What could go wrong?” Oh, plenty. Ever heard of the OMG cable? It looks normal but can steal your data faster than a toddler grabbing candy. Just keep your cable handy—and keep strangers (and me) out of your charging business.
5. Don’t Ignore Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Yes, it’s a minor inconvenience. But so is locking your door, and you don’t skip that, do you? (Please don’t say you do.) 2FA can be the difference between a bad day and a catastrophic week.
6. Avoid Clicking on Weird Links in Emails
“Your package is ready for pickup!” Great! Except you didn’t order anything. That link probably leads to a world of ransomware and regret. Just hover over it to check where it goes. Better yet, don’t click at all. Be suspicious of everything. Paranoia is your friend here.
7. Never Reuse Passwords
Reusing passwords is like locking every door in your house with the same key. If one gets compromised, you might as well hand over the rest. Use a password manager unless you’re a memory prodigy or a glutton for punishment. And if you use Vaultwarden, make sure it’s self-hosted and properly secured. Otherwise, you might as well post your passwords on a billboard.
8. Don’t Trust Bluetooth in Crowded Places
Keep Bluetooth off unless you’re actively using it. Otherwise, you’re essentially leaving your digital doors wide open for anyone with the right tools to snoop around. Think of it as closing the blinds to your digital life.
9. Stop Downloading Sketchy Apps
That app promising free movies, premium features, or unlimited likes? Spoiler: It’s not magic; it’s malware. Stick to reputable app stores and read the reviews—even if they’re mostly from bots.
10. Never Trust “Free” USB Drives
Oh, a free USB drive at a conference or lying around in the parking lot? How generous! It’s probably packed with malware that’ll make your computer cry. Treat it like you would an unwrapped candy from a stranger—just say no.
Paranoia isn’t just a mindset; it’s a lifestyle choice. Cybersecurity is no joke, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have fun staying safe. One day, I hope you’ll be as paranoid as me—because in this crazy digital world, the paranoid survives.
—Carl Hendrix, Innoviguard
