Privacy steps we can all take:

✅ Do regular digital spring cleaning. Review your apps, messages, files, and photos. Be especially ruthless with sensitive content — if you don’t need it, don’t keep it.

✅ Keep your operating system up to date. Regular updates make your device harder to compromise. Those persistent update notifications can make a real difference to your security.

✅ Enable strong encryption and passwords. Use long, unique passcodes on all devices (alphanumeric is best). This is your first line of defense.

✅ Use secure messaging apps. Platforms like Signal offer end-to-end encryption. Standard texts offer almost no protection.

✅ Use browsers instead of dedicated apps. Access email or social platforms through browsers and log out after use. This creates less persistent data.

✅ Consider using online aliases. Avoid using your real name and personal details where possible. It’s a small shift that adds a layer of protection.

Additional steps when traveling internationally:

✅ Back up and minimize data. Save your data to encrypted cloud storage. Travel only with what you need.

✅ Temporarily disable biometric unlock. Turn off fingerprint and facial recognition before travel.

✅ Power off devices before crossing. Powered-off devices have additional encryption protection in many cases.