What do you do if your digital assets and data privacy as a journalist are at risk?

1 Assess Risks

Begin by evaluating the potential risks to your digital assets. Consider the nature of your work, the sensitivity of your data, and the likelihood of being targeted. Recognize that risks can vary; from cyberattacks aimed at stealing information to surveillance efforts that compromise source confidentiality. By identifying the specific threats you face, you can tailor your security measures to be more effective.

2 Secure Devices

Ensure that all devices you use for journalism—laptops, smartphones, tablets—are secure. Install reputable antivirus software, use strong passwords, and enable two-factor authentication wherever possible. Regularly update your operating systems and applications to patch security vulnerabilities. Encrypting your hard drives and using virtual private networks (VPNs) can provide an additional layer of security, especially when working on public Wi-Fi networks.

3 Data Encryption

Encrypting your data is a vital step in protecting it from unauthorized access. Use encryption tools to secure your files, emails, and communications. This means that even if someone were to gain access to your digital assets, they would not be able to read or use the information without the encryption key. Remember to keep your keys secure and to use end-to-end encryption for messaging apps to ensure only you and your recipient can read your conversations.

4 Manage Access

Be judicious about who has access to your digital assets. Limit access strictly to individuals who need it for their work. When collaborating with others, use secure platforms that allow you to control permissions and revoke access as necessary. Regularly review who has access to your data and adjust permissions accordingly. This minimizes the risk of internal leaks or accidental exposure of sensitive information.

5 Continuous Learning

Stay informed about the latest trends in digital security and data privacy. The digital landscape is constantly evolving, with new threats emerging regularly. Subscribe to security blogs, attend workshops, and engage with the cybersecurity community to keep your knowledge up to date. Understanding the current digital threats will enable you to adapt your security practices and better protect your assets.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?