Encryption > Protect Encryption, Protect Yourself
Protect Encryption, Protect Yourself
Encryption is under threat around the world. It’s up to all of us to take action to protect encryption, protect our data, and protect one another.
Use end-to-end encryption. Take these actions to make sure you are as safe as you can be.
Use end-to-end encrypted messaging apps. Switch to using messaging apps that offer end-to-end encryption, e.g. WhatsApp, Signal, Threema, and Telegram. Some are better than others, so make sure to read the reviews.
Turn on encryption on your devices or services. Some devices or services will offer encryption, but not set it as the default. Make sure to turn on encryption. Encryption can only be as good as the other security tools it relies on, so taking the following security steps are critical:
Use strong passwords. Do not just use a default password, a simple guessable password, or a password that uses personal information, e.g. your pet’s name. No matter how strongly your device or application is encrypted, if someone can figure out your password – they can access your data.
Keep up with updates. No system is perfectly secure. Security vulnerabilities are always being discovered and fixed with updates. That’s why it is so important to keep up with updates to your applications, devices and services. The update could be fixing a vulnerability and making you safer!
Turn on two-factor log-in (2FA). Two-factor log-in adds another factor (like a bank security fob) to your usual log-in process (e.g. a username and password). Adding another factor makes it even harder for criminals to access your data.
Turn on erase-data options. Some smartphones and services have an option that will erase your data after 3 or 10 failed attempts. Turn this on to protect yourself from thieves or if you lose your phone.
Stand up for encryption. When we weaken or limit the use of encryption, all of us are put at greater risk. Take these actions to help protect encryption, and yourself.
Stay informed. Keep watch of measures that could impact your use of encryption. Is your government introducing legislation that would impact encryption? Is your government mandating that companies provide exceptional access?
Inform others. Tell others about the importance of encryption and urge them to use end-to-end encryption.
Take action. When encryption comes under threat in your country, we need you to join us to keep it safe. Contact your local leaders and explain why encryption is important to you and to the country. Sign on to petitions, joint letters and other campaigns that support end-to-end encryption.