# Byte Sized Security Show Notes
## Episode Title:
3 Immediate Actions to Protect Your Privacy Today
## Episode Summary:
In this episode of Byte Sized Security, host Marc David outlines three practical, actionable steps to enhance your privacy protection immediately. With data breaches nearly doubling in 2024 and companies like AT&T and Ticketmaster experiencing massive exposures, these privacy protection measures aren't just theoretical—they're essential defenses against real threats.
## Key Discussion Points:
* The alarming state of data breaches in 2024: 10,626 confirmed breaches, nearly double from previous year
* Major breaches highlighted: AT&T (73M records), Ticketmaster (560M users), National Public Data (2.9B records)
* The average breach costs $4.88 million, or $165 per stolen record
* **Step 1**: Enable two-factor authentication everywhere
* 2FA stops 99.9% of automated attacks
* Use authentication apps instead of SMS
* Save backup codes in a safe place
* **Step 2**: Audit your privacy settings
* Detailed walkthrough for Facebook, Instagram, Twitter/X, and LinkedIn
* Phone settings review for both iOS and Android
* Revoking unnecessary app permissions
* **Step 3**: Protect your connection and digital footprint
* Using a VPN to encrypt connections and mask browsing
* Reviewing and cleaning your digital footprint
* Opting out of data broker sites
* Deleting old, unused accounts
* The importance of ongoing privacy maintenance
## Tools and Resources Mentioned:
* **Authentication Apps:**
* [Google Authenticator](https://googleauthenticator.net/)
* [Authy](https://authy.com/)
* **Recommended VPN Services:**
* [NordVPN](https://nordvpn.com/)
* [ExpressVPN](https://www.expressvpn.com/)
* [Surfshark](https://surfshark.com/)
* **Data Broker Removal Services:**
* [DeleteMe](https://joindeleteme.com/)
* [Privacy Bee](https://privacybee.com/)
* [Optery](https://optery.com/)
* **Data Broker Sites to Opt Out From:**
* [Whitepages](https://www.whitepages.com/)
* [PeopleFinder](https://www.peoplefinder.com/)
* [Spokeo](https://www.spokeo.com/)
