Digital Security – A Primer
Digital security is the set of tools and practices that protect people, devices, online accounts and communications from digital threats like hacking, surveillance, phishing and data breaches. Digital security includes a wide range of controls such as firewalls, encryption, access control and regular security checks. It also includes useful suggestions such as teaching employees about security, using strong passwords and multi-factor authentication and avoiding sharing sensitive information online. A comprehensive approach to digital security reduces the risk of cyberattacks and data breaches, while also making a business more resilient as a whole.
While digital security is important for everyone who uses the internet, it’s particularly crucial for activists, journalists and civil society groups who are at higher risks of surveillance, censorship or targeted attacks. This article serves as a primer for those who want to better understand the digital threats they face, and how to build digital resilience into their lives.
Threats are constantly evolving and can vary depending on context. For example, the risks for a journalist in Mexico may be very different from those of a Dalit woman in India. As a result, no one tool or strategy can provide complete protection from all digital threats. But developing a digital security mindset and building strong digital security habits can significantly reduce the chances of being compromised or exploited.
Security solutions are constantly evolving to meet new threats and vulnerabilities. To help you stay ahead of the curve, we’ve rounded up some of the most effective and popular digital security tools to keep your devices, systems and data safe.