Citizens’ Online Resilience

Using a unique and strong password is one of the most important ways to protect an account. It is essential to use a different password for each account. This ensures that other accounts remain safe if 1 password is leaked. A strong password should be at least 12 characters long and include a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Using a passphrase with at least 5 words adds security.

Check if a password is part of a data breach on the website Have I been pwned.

Many people find it hard to remember multiple passwords. Using a password manager (or pass key) allows you to store all your passwords in one location. When using such a password manager, it is crucial to ensure it remains secure. Examples of free, open-source password managers include Bitwarden, Keepass, or KeepassXC. If using a password manager is too challenging, make sure to write down all passwords and keep them in a safe place.

Nowadays, relying solely on strong passwords is no longer sufficient to safeguard yourself against hacking. That is why logging in with 2 steps, also known as 2-factor authentication (2FA), has become essential for securing e-mail accounts, social media profiles, and password managers.

For more information on 2-factor authentication, please visit the EU’s website: What is multi-factor authentication or 2FA?

Emails and online messages can contain links that lead to malicious websites. Always double-check links in emails or messages from unknown senders before clicking. Never share personal details if you’re unsure about the sender’s legitimacy. This helps prevent scams and malware (software designed to damage your device or steal your data).

For more tips on spotting suspicious links, please visit the Laat je niet interneppen (Don’t get scammed) (Dutch) website.

Apps and files from unknown sources can contain malware. Only download mobile apps from trusted platforms like the Apple App Store, Google Play, or F-Droid. Avoid downloading files from untrustworthy websites, and be wary of opening attachments from unknown senders. It’s also safer to avoid using public networks for downloads, as they aren’t always secure. Whenever possible, use your home network, mobile data, or a secure VPN connection.

Regularly updating your software is crucial for protecting your devices from hackers. Updates patch vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit. Enable automatic updates where possible to ensure you’re always protected.

For more information on updating your software, visit the Doe je updates (Do your updates) (Dutch) website.

Regularly backing up your important data shields you from loss caused by technical failures, theft, or cyberattacks. Having backups allows you to easily restore documents, photos, and other vital files if something goes wrong.

For more information on creating backups, visit Veiliginternetten.nl (Safe internetting) (Dutch).

For a safer online experience, use a privacy-friendly, open-source web browser. Examples include Brave, DuckDuckGo, Firefox and LibreWolf. These free browsers help protect you from tracking and unauthorised access to your personal data.

An ad blocker not only stops unwanted ads but also protects you from malicious websites that may try to install malware. It also enhances your privacy by blocking trackers that monitor your browsing habits and collect personal data. A reliable open-source ad blocker, such as uBlock Origin, helps safeguard your data and prevents it from being shared without your consent.

Sharing personal details online comes with risks, such as identity theft and scams. Always be cautious about what you share and review your privacy settings on social media. This helps prevent unauthorised access to your personal data.

Under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), EU residents have rights regarding their personal data, including the right to have it deleted. For more information, visit the Dutch Data Protection Authority (Autoriteit Persoonsgegevens) website.