How Secure Do I Need to Be? | Cyber Self-Defense Insights from Riding Hood Solutions
- Wes Copelin
- Mar 2
- 2 min read
We all know cybersecurity is important—but how much security is enough? Do you need a military-grade firewall, or is a strong password good enough? The truth is, your security needs depend on your specific situation—and for most people, the goal isn’t to be invincible. It’s to be a harder target than the next person.
The “Wolf in the Woods” Rule of Cybersecurity
There’s an old joke about two hikers who stumble upon a wolf. One starts lacing up his running shoes, and the other says, "You can’t outrun a wolf!" The first hiker replies, "I don’t have to outrun the wolf—I just have to outrun you."
Cybersecurity works the same way. Most cybercriminals aren’t targeting you specifically. They’re looking for the easiest prey—people using weak passwords, ignoring security updates, or clicking on phishing emails without a second thought. If you can make yourself less vulnerable than the average person, you significantly reduce your risk.
So, what level of security do you really need?
Your Security Should Match Your Risk
The Everyday Internet User (95% of People)If you’re an average person checking emails, shopping online, and using social media, your main concern is avoiding opportunistic attacks—things like phishing emails, password breaches, and malware.
Your Best Security Moves:
Use strong, unique passwords (and a password manager).
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) everywhere.
Keep your devices and software updated.
Learn to recognize phishing and scam tactics.
Be mindful of what you share online.
Goal: Be more secure than the average internet user.
The High-Risk User (Business Owners, Influencers, Activists, Journalists, etc.)If your work or online presence makes you a more attractive target (e.g., handling sensitive data, managing financial accounts, or having a large public profile), your security needs to step up a level.
Your Best Security Moves:
Everything from the “Everyday User” list.
Use encrypted messaging and email.
Monitor your digital footprint and reduce exposure.
Implement additional authentication (like hardware security keys).
Goal: Make targeted attacks significantly harder.
The High-Value Target (Executives, Government Officials, Cybersecurity Professionals, etc.)If you’re handling highly sensitive information or you’re in a role that attracts deliberate attacks, you need a comprehensive cybersecurity plan.
Your Best Security Moves:
Everything from the previous categories.
Regular security audits and penetration testing.
Dedicated secure devices for sensitive work.
Air-gapped backups and advanced encryption.
Threat modeling to anticipate potential attack vectors.
Goal: Make breaching your security so difficult that attackers move on.
Where Do You Fit In?
The good news is that most people don’t need to be cybersecurity experts—they just need to be cautious, informed, and a little bit ahead of the average person.
That’s exactly why I created Cyber Self-Defense 101—to give everyday people the tools to protect themselves without needing a computer science degree. Whether you’re a parent, a small business owner, or just someone who wants to keep their personal data safe, this course will teach you how to outsmart cybercriminals and make yourself a harder target.
Ready to Level Up Your Security? Check out Cyber Self-Defense 101 today!
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