The Digital Vault
To-Do Privacy | Issue #001
Hey there,
Let’s play a quick game of "Would You Rather."
Would you rather have a giant, unbreakable steel door on your house that everyone can see through like glass? Or would you rather have a house that is completely invisible to the world, but has no locks on the doors?
If you picked the steel door, you’ve got Security. If you picked the invisible house, you’ve got Privacy.
In 2025, most of us are walking around with a mix of both—or worse, neither. Today, we’re breaking down why these two aren't the same thing and why your "To-Do" list needs to include a bit of both to keep you safe.
The "Normal Person" Breakdown
We often use these words interchangeably, but in the tech world, they do very different jobs.
1. Security is the "Lock" 🔐
Security is about protection. It’s the wall, the password, and the encryption. It ensures that hackers and "bad guys" can’t get into your accounts.
The Goal: Keep the intruders out.
The 2026 Reality: If you have a 20-character password but no privacy, the "bad guys" might not get in, but the "legitimate companies" are still watching everything you do.
2. Privacy is the "Curtain" 🫣
Privacy is about control. It’s about who gets to see what you’re doing, even if they aren't "hacking" you. It’s the right to search for a new job, a medical condition, or a goofy gift without a data broker selling that info to an insurance company or an advertiser.
The Goal: Keep your business your business.
The 2026 Reality: You can have the most secure account in the world, but if the app you’re using sells your location data to 50 other companies, your privacy is gone.
Visualizing the Difference
Think of it like this:
Security: Using FaceID to unlock your phone. (Prevents a thief from reading your texts).
Privacy: Turning off "App Tracking" so Facebook doesn't know you just visited a pharmacy. Prevents a company from building a profile on you.
Why 2026 is Different
We’ve entered the age of "Aggressive AI." Companies aren't just looking for your credit card number anymore; they are looking for your habits. They want to know when you’re tired, what you’re worried about, and where you’re going tomorrow.
Security protects your money. Privacy protects your personhood.
Your Weekly To-Do
You don't need to be a tech genius to balance these two. Here is your 2-step mission for the week:
For Security: Check your primary email on HaveIBeenPwned. If it’s been in a leak, change that password and turn on 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication).
For Privacy: Open your phone settings, go to "Privacy & Security," and click "Tracking." Turn off "Allow Apps to Request to Track." Watch how many "invisible" eyes you just closed.
Join the Conversation
Which one worries you more: a hacker stealing your password or a company tracking your every move? Reply to this email and let me know—I read every single one!
Stay safe and private,