Physical Security, Don't Overlook it!
Credit where credit is due: a recent post by @fyrstikken mentioned this topic, and it really brought it to the forefront of my mind & covered a few of the dangers that a lack of physical security can bring.
source: https://www.xkcd.com/538/, licensed under Creative Commons 2.5
As somebody working on my IT Degree I understand the need for a secure PC and/or network and the havoc that an insecure one can cause (or more specifically the havoc that can be caused by a malicious individual that breaks into one).
However, it seems all to often that while digital security is really focused on; physical security isn’t, and a chain is only as strong as it’s weakest link.
Weak Links
Some basic potential gaps in your physical security
Surveillance
You could have the best encryption in the world, but if you type the password out and there’s a hidden camera in the room then it’s not all that secure.
Staying Safe Be sure you know who’s watching when you’re doing anything important, especially if you are doing anything that would reveal encryption keys or a private key.
Persuasion
Have you ever been talked into something you regretted? It could have been a person, or maybe it was a company/wallet that convinced you to enter your private key(s). Or perhaps it was a repairman that seemed trustworthy, but started looking through your papers the second you turned your head.
Staying Safe Be careful who/what you trust with your money (or access to your money).
The “5$ Wrench Attack”
This one is probably the hardest to defend against, but also the most obvious when it’s happening. You may have heard about a recent ETH robbery similar to this or a Canadian exchange that got hit.
Somebody breaks into your house or holds you hostage and demands you give them your money. Your encryption is worthless because you’ll be forced to supply the password.
Staying Safe This one’s a hard one, although it’s important to be ready to defend yourself. Don’t carry large sums of money on you, and consider self-defense training and/or a weapon for your home.
Natural Disasters, Fires, and the like
It doesn’t matter how secure your paper wallet or hard drive is if it’s destroyed.
Staying Safe Backup your stuff and keep a copy in another location. Try a bank deposit box, a friend’s house, a barn, or cloud storage (remember to have it encrypted, or you’re just trading one vulnerability for another).
Conclusion
I hope you found this post useful and that you will continue and/or start to take physical security as seriously as the crypto community takes digital security.
I'm @Nathan047. I mainly post news and opinions regarding Technology and Cryptos. If that sort of thing interests you then consider following me.
Also, an upvote or resteem wouldn't hurt.
Thanks for reading!