Why Cybersecurity Feels So Hard (and Why It Doesn’t Have to Be)

Right around the time Microsoft made it so you could accidentally brick your computer, a new idea took hold: let the experts handle it. The message was clear, nerds (as in, Revenge of the) knew what to do, and the rest of us were supposed to just follow instructions. No one asked for your input.

Here’s the thing, though: no one knows all the ways systems can break or the threats out there.

Cybersecurity as a field proves this. No matter how advanced your defenses are, you’re always one clever hacker away from trouble. And from that truth, we’ve seen a lot of what’s called FUD: fear, uncertainty, and doubt. It’s used to scare people into doing what they’re told.

But it doesn’t have to be that way.

Security is everywhere.

You already know how to stay safe in the real world. You lock your car. You lock your home. You check the locks before bed. You set up Neighborhood Watch. You install cameras.

Staying safe online is the same idea.

All it takes is a few good habits, like the ones you already use to stay safe every day, and keeping them going.

Your data is yours.

Giving away your data is the same as giving away your power. Big tech has encouraged us to do this, because your data is how they make their money.

We’re up against a culture of disempowerment, where tech feels too complicated, fear drives our actions, and we hand over our data without really understanding what it’s being used for.

The way we push back is by taking control: making sure you have as much say over your data (and how it’s used) as possible.

Let’s keep perspective.

Nothing is perfectly secure.
Not banks.
Not the government.
Not you.

Security is a process, not a destination. Every time a clever person figures out a new hack, the community figures out a new way to block it. It’s like a demented hokey-pokey.

The goal isn’t perfection. It’s about keeping your digital footprint small, sticking to good habits, and paying attention when things change, so you can respond when you need to.

Let’s take it one step at a time. Together.

Join us for tea!

CybersecuriTea is a free, plain-English guide to digital safety, designed for families, friends, and the folks you love. Subscribe today and get weekly tips to help keep your digital life secure.

Or, if you’d like to support our work and keep the kettle warm for everyone:

Issue # 1