Digital and Data Security
Choose passphrases over passwords—long phrases are harder to brute force.
If a paper map is critical, memorize it fully, use it rarely.
Avoid leaving metadata—dates, times—on written notes if not necessary.
Transpose letters in key place names—only you know the correction code.
Store digital files on encrypted USB drives, carry them on your person rather than leaving them behind.
If writing sensitive info in a diary, use a cipher for critical pages only.
Remember that any digital signal might be intercepted—limit crucial transmissions.
Teach allies a simple sign to indicate “I’ve been compromised” if forced to talk in code.
Use natural number sequences (Fibonacci, for instance) as a key to shift letters in ciphers.
Take advantage of commonly available newspapers—underline letters to form coded messages.
If forced to share info, give partial truths mixed with harmless lies to buy time.
Never store all keys (passwords) in one place—distribute fragments.
Consider using knots in a string as a code for numbers or directions.
If printing anything, smudge or slightly alter letters to reduce perfect clarity.
Learn mental algorithms for encryption—so even without tools, you can encode messages.
Data Security and Codes
Replace sensitive words with generic terms—“Aunt” for ally, “picnic” for rendezvous.
Rotate code words monthly so intercepted messages become stale.
Practice a mental cipher—assign each letter a symbol in memory.
Write crucial notes on water-soluble paper—dunk it in water to erase quickly if needed.
Divide important info into multiple notes—losing one part reveals nothing.
Use acrostics or acronyms to encode directions—easier to remember than random letters.
If forced to leave a note for an ally, hide it under a common rock or inside a broken fence post.
If you must keep a digital file, choose a strong passphrase from a memorable poem line.
Avoid storing all notes in one place—spread them in different safe spots.
Pretend ignorance if questioned—act as if you know less than you do.
Digital Data Safeguards
Encryption Tools (If Accessible): If you have a working device, use offline encryption software to password-protect files. Keep keys or passphrases in your head, not written down.
Minimal Digital Footprint: Avoid broadcasting sensitive details via radios, phones, or any network that could be intercepted. The best digital security often means using digital communication sparingly.
Regularly Change Access Keys: If multiple people must access a device or file, rotate passwords or keys. If someone is captured or turns traitor, changing keys locks them out.
If you must store digital maps or notes, break them into separate encrypted files. Without all the pieces and keys, adversaries get only partial, useless data.
Balancing Accessibility and Security
Ease of Use vs. Complexity: Extremely intricate codes or encrypted files might be hard for you to manage under stress. Find a balance that’s secure yet usable.
Train Allies in Data Discipline: If working in a group, ensure everyone understands data handling protocols. A single careless member can compromise entire systems.
Plan for Emergencies: If you must flee suddenly, can you erase or hide data quickly? Keep a mental checklist for destroying or hiding crucial info in a hurry.
Store only what’s essential. The fewer unnecessary details you write down or save, the smaller your vulnerability footprint.
Evaluate a measure before adopting it
Write the problem a security measure addresses and the evidence that the problem exists. Consider who benefits, who is inconvenienced, and effects on accessibility, privacy, or emergency access. Prefer ordinary maintenance and clear procedures where they solve the problem.
Test lawfully without creating hazards or staging a threatening encounter. Ask an authorized person to follow access instructions; for an alert, confirm who receives it and what response is expected. Record false alarms, confusion, and unintended consequences. Revise measures creating more difficulty than they prevent. Protect dignity as well as property and information, and give affected people a way to question arrangements that are not working.