Sunday, December 14, 2025

Old Wives' Tales

Maybe not exactly, but kinda like that.


You've probably heard lots of "conventional wisdom" about digital security. Recently I came across a good article (archive.org) that refutes many of these recommendations.
  1. Avoid public WiFi
  2. Never scan QR codes
  3. Never charge devices from public USB ports
  4. Turn off Bluetooth and NFC
  5. Regularly “clear cookies”
  6. Regularly change passwords
    And I'll add one...
  7. Keep your "tap" cards in a secure wallet
Even as you retire these recommendations, there are several that you should add.
  1. Keep critical devices and applications updated
  2. Enable multi-factor authentication (“MFA”, sometimes called 2FA)
  3. Use strong passphrases
  4. Use a password manager
    And again, I'll add one...
  5. Use passkeys
The source article is a MUST read.