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CYBER DEFENSE CHECKLIST

Choose one personal account and one device to review. Use official provider settings and documentation. For work-managed devices, follow your organization’s policy and consult the administrator. This sheet helps organize the review; it does not certify that an account or device is secure.

[ ] Identify the important accounts.
    Start with the email, device, and service accounts you most depend on. Record official sign-in locations, not passwords.

[ ] Find the real security settings.
    Open the known website or application directly. Do not begin a review through a link in an unexpected message.

[ ] Review password arrangements.
    Use strong, unique credentials and understand your chosen storage and recovery method. Keep secrets out of a shared checklist.

[ ] Consider additional authentication.
    Check the methods the provider supports. Plan how to recover before removing or replacing an existing method.

[ ] Check recovery contacts.
    Confirm that the recovery address and telephone number are still appropriate. Follow the provider’s instructions for protected recovery materials.

[ ] Review routine updates.
    Check the operating system, browser, and important applications. Read vendor notices about support and do not alter managed equipment without permission.

[ ] Agree on message verification.
    Use a known channel to verify unexpected requests. Never share a one-time sign-in code just because a message asks for it.

[ ] Record one next step.
    Note the task and date, not the secret. Choose a manageable follow-up rather than deliberately locking yourself out or testing an unfamiliar system.

REVISIT THE ARRANGEMENT
For a next review, choose one remaining account and read its recovery instructions. Do not try to prove a system is safe by experimenting with unauthorized access. A suspected compromise needs the provider’s incident guidance and appropriate support, not just another routine checklist.

SOURCE AND CONTEXT
Federal Trade Commission
https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/protect-your-personal-information-hackers-and-scammers
These are editorial planning prompts, not an official form or professional assessment.

Read the full guide: https://defensepodcast.com/blog/cyber-defense-starter-checklist/
General education only. Use relevant local emergency services for immediate danger.