Stealth in the Computer Age
Stealth in the Electronic Age
By The Sensei
NB: This article was first published in early 2008
Today I have spent much of my time chained to the computer. Truth is, I'm not a huge fan of computers. I'm not a huge fan of advanced technology in general—when the shit hits the fan, you never know what equipment you'll be able to depend on. I prefer to keep it simple. An individual highly trained in the Ten Skills, fortified with some basic, useful, high-quality kit is in a much better position to survive a catastrophe than an out-of-shape techno-geek loaded down with gadgets.
But the reality is that computers are useful tools in the modern world. More and more of us are using them for work, communication, and fun. If this is true for you, remember that The Urban Warrior must pass over into every area of your life.
But the reality is that computers are useful tools in the modern world. More and more of us are using them for work, communication, and fun. If this is true for you, remember that The Urban Warrior must pass over into every area of your life.
One of the Six Deadly Laws is: Become a Ghost. You are a smaller target, in all things, if you are invisible. This is true when you're on the computer, too. All manner of people have become victims of identity theft and all kinds of more sinister stalking and scams because they practically broadcast all their personal details over the internet.
But it's not just your own contribution—through personal websites blogs, forums and social networking sites—that might make you vulnerable. Your enemies can steal your personal details without any permission whatsoever, by methods such as hacking, phishing, spyware and other forms of unauthorized access. These threats tend to go hand-in-hand with other security risks such as viruses, spam, Trojan horses, 'net worms and data loss.
For this reason, if a big chunk of your life is spent at the computer, do everything you can to protect yourself from these risks. You'll find more advanced tips on the noble art of techno-stealth in The Urban Warrior's Bible, but always follow these basic rules:
1. Use safe passwords and pin numbers when dealing with technology—codes or concepts known only to you and unguessable by anyone else who knows you.
2. Be aware of the sites you regularly use, and protect your personal details assiduously.
3. Finally, invest in some decent security software. Many computer junkies don't bother with this, because it costs a few bucks—but how many of them would think nothing of shelling out the same money for a game they'd use a few times and get bored with?
Regarding this last rule, my personal choice in this area is BitDefender Total Security 2008. It's a complete package of protection against viruses, hackers, spyware, and all the basic cyber-threats you might encounter.
I have no vested interest in endorsing this product; I just use it, and rate it as good. This is true for every product or piece of equipment I present to my students and visitors to my site. Norton Internet Security 2008 is another good product, and a little cheaper. Always shop around.