Taking Control of Your Digital Identity: A Guide to Managing Your Online Presence
WELCOME TO “STUART’s SECURITY SERIES” WHERE WE LOOK AT TAKING CONTROL OF YOUR DIGITAL IDENTITY, SAFEGUARDING AND STRENGTHENING YOUR DIGITAL BLUEPRINT, AND THE BEST PRACTISE BACKUPS TO PROTECT YOUR DESIGNS AND PROJECTS.
WEEK 1
In architecture and design, work extends beyond physical spaces into the digital domain: websites, online portfolios, and various online tools are used to showcase creativity and connect with clients. However, like in the tech world, digital presence can only be protected if properly managed.
In this blog, we'll explore how architects and designers can take control of their online identity, with a focus on non-tech individuals. We'll guide you through inventorying your digital assets and ensuring your online security is top-notch. Plus, we'll provide a quiz at the end to help you assess the strength and safety of your digital identity.
STEP 1
Catalogue Your Digital Presence
The first step in safeguarding your online identity is to understand your digital footprint clearly - this involves creating a comprehensive list of your digital assets and accounts.
Here's a simplified approach…
Websites - List any websites you have, whether they showcase your portfolio or represent your architectural firm.
Online Accounts - List your regular online accounts, such as social media profiles, email, or cloud storage.
Devices - Identify the devices you use for your work, including computers, tablets, and smartphones.
Cloud Services - Note any online storage services you use for your project files and documents.
STEP 2
Strengthen Your Passwords
Once you've documented your digital assets, it's crucial to ensure the security of your passwords. Weak passwords can leave your online presence vulnerable. Here's how to enhance password security in plain English…
Password Manager - Consider using a password manager. It's like a vault for your passwords, creating and storing strong, unique passwords for each account so you don't have to remember them. You can also share these among team members.
Unique Passwords - Use different passwords for different accounts. Each one should have its unique code; the more unusual, the better!
Complexity - Use upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols to make your passwords strong. Avoid using simple things like your birthdate or name.
Extra Security - Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) for your accounts where possible; this means a password and a second check, like a text message code, to log in.
step 3
Evaluate Your Digital Identity
Now, let's find out how secure your digital identity really is! Complete our quiz, and you'll be assigned points based on your answers with a handy tip or two on improving your digital identity security.
