personal-security-checklist/5_Privacy_and-Security_Gadgets.md
2020-02-15 20:04:36 +00:00

7.5 KiB

Item Description
USB Data Blocker
Data Blocker
There are many exploits that allow an attacker to infect your device with malware and/ or steal data, when you plug it in to what appears to be a USB power outlet. If you are charging your phone while travelling, a USB data blocker will prevent anything other than power from getting to your device, by removing the connection between the 2 data wires. The PortaPower brand, also comes with a fast charging chip, since without the data connection your device would otherwise charge at minimum speed
Microphone Blocker
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A microphone blocker is a device that prohibits audio hacking, in the form of a hardware accessory for a smartphones, laptops etc. It functions as a dummy mic jack, so the device thinks it has a microphone plugged in, and hence disables the internal one
Faraday Pouch
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Faraday Shield is an enclosure that blocks electromagnetic fields. It is useful to keep any device which could be hacked through sending or receiving signals in such a case, such as car keys, or a smart phone
RFID Blocking Cards
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If you are concerned about card skimming, you can use an RFID blocking sleeve to protect your contactless payment and identity cards.
RFID-enabled credit cards and passports wirelessly transmit the necessary personal information to a RFID reader within a few inches to complete a transaction. This is subject to hacking since the transmission protocol is not encrypted. However there are proportionately very few crimes RFID-skimmer reported, and most credit cards have a low contactless limit
Web Cam Covers
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Web cam covers are quite self-exoplanetary, they physically conceal the lenses on your laptop or phone camera, to prevent a malicious actor (hacker, government, corporation etc) from watching you through the camera. It may sound paranoid, but unfortunately it happens, and it is a relatively simply process for someone to gain remote access to a webcam. Even Mark Zuckerberg covers his webcam! Of course you could just use some tape, rather than buying a cover
Port Blockers
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There are many attacks that involve an attacker inserting a USB device (such as a BadUSB/ Rubber Ducky/ Malduino) to an open USB port. Adding a port blocker doesn't render you safe from this, since the attacker could take the time to try and remove it, but it could protect you for an opportunistic attack
Privacy Filter
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Privacy filters are polarized sheets of plastic, that when placed over a computer screen prevent screen visibility from any angle other than straight on. They make it harder for anyone to look over your shoulder and see your data confidential
YubiKey
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The YubiKey is a small hardware device used to secure access on mobile devices, computers, and servers to all of your online accounts. It allows for second-factor authentication, hence protecting anyone other than you from logging in. It is said to be more convenient and more secure than using a mobile authenticator, but there are reasons for and against
Encrypted Kingston Data Traveler
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Good value, easy-to-use with no installation required. Built-in hardware encryption and high password protection. Also optionally allows for automatic cloud backup option to protect against data loss (which doesn't say much about their faith in this USB device, but jokes aside-) this is a very affordable and well rated little device
IornKey - Durable Encrypted USB
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Claiming to provide "uncompromising data security", IornKey has strong encryption combined with a very durable USB drive, to prevent against data loss. It is certified for enterprise usage, so if you are storing other peoples personal data- this is the drive for you
Hardware Encrypted USB 3.0 Drive
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OS & Platform independent, with 100% hardware encryption, so it works perfectly with all operating systems. USB 3.0 with Read/Write Speeds of 116/43 MBps. GDPR complient and FIPS 140-2 Level 3, NLNCSA DEP-V & NATO Restricted Level Certified with real time military grade AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption
Hardware Encrypted External Hard Drive
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Similar to the iStorage hardware encrypted USB 3.1 drive, this external hard drive has high capacity and strong hardware encryption. Data is encrypted with FIPS PUB 197 Validated Encryption Algorithm, and against a 7 - 15 digit alpha-numeric pin, with erasing capabilities for multiple failed login attempts
Fingbox - Home Network Monitoring
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Fing Box is an optional companion to the Fing App. It provides network monitoring and security capabilities, to protect your home/ work network. As well as the functionality of the app, the FingBox allows you to block intruders and notify you about unknown devices as well as analyse your network for vulnerabilities, such as open ports. You can also see which devises are near your home at what time (even if they're not connected to your WiFi), and improve network speed with scheduled analysis and bandwidth allocation. Best to try out the Fing app alone, before buying the FindBox, but both are great products for netowrk monitoring and security
Bootable Drive Eraser
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Easy-to-use bootable USB will completely erase your hard drive with military grade destruction, making it near-impossible for any files or personal data to be recovered. This should be done before you sell, or dispose of any hard drive. Of course there are various .ISOs you can download and flash to a USB yourself if you do not want to spend money, but this USB supports all devices and is quick and easy to use, with excellent results
Mobile Privacy Screen
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Similar to the laptop/ monitor privacy filter, this screen protector will prevent anyone from seeing what is on your screen when reading from an angle
Faraday Pouch
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Larger version of the faraday key and phone pouch, you can put your laptop, tablet and other larger devices in this to block all incoming and outgoing signals
ArmourCard - Active RFID Jamming
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Unlike the RFID blocking credit-card wallets, the Armour Card uses active RFID micro-jamming to confuse and block any near-by readers. It is powered with a 24-month battery, and activates as soon as an RFID reader is within range, sending out void signals to protect all your credit cards, passports and devices