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.
