Digital security checklist for journalists in exile

Use the following checklist to help better protect yourself, your family, and your sources. This checklist is designed to accompany the digital safety guide for journalists in exile.

• I am aware of the digital risks that I face

• I have turned on two-factor authentication for my accounts

• I have the backup codes for each account

• I know how to create a secure password 

• I am using different secure passwords for each account 

• I have a way to store and use my passwords safely 

• I am aware of the steps I need to take to protect myself against phishing

• I have carried out a search of my online data and have taken steps to remove any personal information that I do not want in the public domain

• I know the best and most secure way for me to communicate with others back in my country of origin

• I have spoken with my sources and others about the importance of deleting conversations and other sources of information from their phones in case they are arrested

• I know what personal data is available online regarding my web domain

• I have backed up the content of my website or I have created a mirror of the site

• My site is protected from DDoS attacks

If you need assistance, journalists should contact CPJ via emergencies@cpj.org.