🔒 Physical Security

🛠️ What is it?#

Physical security refers to measures that protect your devices, data, and personal information from physical theft, tampering, or unauthorized access. Whether you're working at a coffee shop, traveling, or safeguarding your home office, physical security is an essential layer of protection that complements digital defenses.

🚨 Why is this important?#

A stolen or tampered device can:

• Expose sensitive information, photos, or financial details.
• Grant attackers access to your accounts and data.
• Be used to impersonate you or exploit your digital identity.

Strong physical security measures protect against these risks by ensuring that only you can access your devices and data in real-world scenarios.

🛡️ What can I do?#

🟢 Start Here (The Basics)#

1. Secure Your Devices in Public

   • Use cable locks for laptops and desktop computers in shared spaces.
   • Always keep smaller devices like phones, USB drives, or tablets on your person or in sight.

2. Use Strong Passwords or PINs

   • Protect every device with a strong PIN, password, or biometric authentication.
   • Avoid using easily guessed PINs like “1234” or “0000.”

3. Lock Devices When Not in Use

   • Always lock your screen or log out of accounts when stepping away from your device, even briefly.
   • Enable automatic lock timers to protect your device in case you forget.

4. Protect Devices While Traveling

   • Use padded or shockproof cases to prevent damage during transit.
   • Avoid leaving devices in cars or hotel rooms unattended.
   • For international travel, consider using a clean device free of sensitive data.

5. Track and Secure Devices

   • Enable “Find My Device” features for your phone, tablet, or laptop.
   • Configure remote wipe options to erase data if a device is lost or stolen.

🔵 Want Extra Protection? (Leveling Up)#

1. Secure Your Home Office

   • Store sensitive hardware and documents in lockable cabinets.
   • Install monitored security systems with motion detectors and cameras to safeguard your workspace.

2. Use Privacy Screens

   • Attach privacy filters to laptops or phones when working in public spaces to prevent "shoulder surfing."

3. Invest in Anti-Theft Accessories

   • Equip laptops with Kensington locks or similar cable locks.
   • Use GPS-enabled trackers like Tile or AirTag for high-value items.

4. Faraday Bags for Sensitive Devices

   • Store devices like phones, laptops, or key fobs in Faraday bags to block wireless tracking or unauthorized access.

5. Keep Firmware Updated

   • Regularly check for firmware updates for devices like routers, smart locks, and webcams.
   • Updated firmware fixes security vulnerabilities that hackers may exploit.

📚 Handy Tools and Resources#

• Device Tracking:

  • Apple’s Find My, Google Find My Device

• Anti-Theft Accessories:

  • Kensington Laptop Locks, Tile Trackers, AirTags

• Privacy Accessories:

  • Privacy screens, webcam covers, and RFID-blocking wallets for enhanced security.

✍️ Quick Tips#

• Never leave devices visible in cars, hotels, or public places.
• Regularly check the physical condition of your devices for signs of tampering.
• Be aware of your surroundings when entering sensitive information in public spaces, such as PINs or passwords.

📝 Checklist#

• Set strong passwords or biometric authentication for all devices.
• Enable automatic lock timers and always lock your screen when not in use.
• Use tracking tools to locate lost devices or enable remote wiping.
• Equip laptops and high-value devices with anti-theft tools.
• Install security cameras or alarms in your home office.
• Update firmware for all connected devices regularly.
• Use privacy screens when working in public.

📖 Sources#

• CISA – Secure Our World
• NSA – Best Practices for Securing Home Networks
• Stay Safe Online – Physical Safety Tips
• Techlicious – How to Secure Your Home Office