Web3er Travel Safety Manual: a16z Security Lead's 6-Step Checklist

Original Author: a16z crypto

Original Compilation: Chopper, Foresight News

With the recent increase in crypto industry conferences and travel needs, Carl Agnelli, Security Lead at a16z crypto and former US Secret Service agent, has specially compiled a practical guide to personal safety for every Web3 professional on the go.

Step 1: Develop the Right Security Mindset

• Always be clear about what constitutes a "normal state" and remain alert to any abnormal behavior.
• Distance equals safety. Rather than confronting, maintain distance: if you notice someone acting suspiciously, leave immediately or change locations.
• Trust your intuition when something feels wrong.
• Take time to think through "what if..." scenarios.
• Develop small security habits now to avoid panic later.

Step 2: Stay Focused in Public

• Maintain a relaxed but alert state; don't be overly tense, just be aware of your surroundings.
• Keep your head up while walking or traveling, leave one ear free from headphones, and avoid being completely immersed in your phone.
• Vary your daily routines irregularly, such as your commute method, gym time, and where you buy coffee and lunch.
• Avoid discussing sensitive itineraries loudly in public areas or ride-sharing vehicles.

Step 3: While Outings (Day or Night)

• Walk with purpose; avoid appearing lost or hesitant.
• When drinking or out late at night, never walk home alone; share your itinerary and location with someone you trust.
• Carry a flashlight or pepper spray, and have it ready in hand when walking alone at night.
• Never discuss crypto asset holdings with strangers or in public.
• Agree on a meeting point with friends or colleagues in case you get separated.
• Do not post your real-time location.

Step 4: Make Travel and Hotel Stays Safer

• Maintain a "low-profile travel" approach; blend in with your surroundings and avoid showing off wealth.
• Do not post travel plans in advance or disclose your current location.
• Make it a habit: upon checking into a hotel, first familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and stairwell locations.
• Keep shoes and a few essentials within easy reach to create a simple emergency kit.
• Be aware of any anomalies in your room; trust your instincts.
• Use the hotel safe and place something you'll need in the morning (like one shoe) inside so you don't forget your valuables.

Step 5: Additional Precautions for High-Risk Roles

• Those in the crypto industry can set up a decoy wallet with transaction history as a contingency measure if coerced.
• Avoid wearing company-branded clothing in public.
• Reduce your digital footprint: consider using data removal services and opt out of public property databases.
• Upgrade home security with cameras or motion-sensor lights, especially near entry points.
• Avoid concentrating all assets or identity information in a single account or device; practice分散 management.
• Practice noticing exits and cover in public spaces until it becomes an instinctive reaction.
• Use a P.O. box or office address instead of your home address; when possible, purchase property under an LLC name rather than personally.

Step 6: Maintain Security Habits

• Maintain a low public profile.
• Do not publicly share family photos.
• Regularly check home security: sensors, cameras, locks, lights.
• Conduct a quick "scenario drill" monthly to stay alert.
• Regularly update digital security settings, including decoy wallets.