STARTER RESILIENCE KIT
by Sheryl Clyde
"The prudent see danger and take refuge." — Proverbs 27:12
Digital Self-Defense: 4 Easy Steps
Do these four actions on your phone or computer.
Step A: Clean Up Your Web Browser
What to do: Delete any browser add-ons or "extensions" you don't actively use.
Why: Extra add-ons can collect data from your searches, microphone, or camera.
Action: Turn off built-in "AI Assistants" inside your browser's settings menu.
Step B: Turn On 2-Factor Protection
What to do: Download a free authenticator app like Aegis (for Android) or Raivo (for iPhone).
Why: If someone steals your password, they still cannot open your account without the secret code on your phone screen.
Step C: Switch to Safe Texting
What to do: Download Signal (free) for sensitive group or individual chats.
Why: Regular text messages (SMS) and emails are completely unencrypted. Signal locks your messages so only you and the receiver can read them.
Step D: Check App Permissions
What to do:
iPhone: Open Settings → Privacy & Security.
Android: Open Settings → Privacy → Permission Manager.
Why: Turn off Camera, Microphone, and Location access for any app that does not strictly need it.
Your "Important Papers" Folder
Gather these items and make two full copies:
What to Include:
Photo ID: Copy of driver's license, state ID, or passport.
Vital Records: Birth, marriage, or custody papers.
Benefits Letters: Your latest SSA, SNAP, VA, or pension statements.
Medical Sheet: List of current medications, dosages, and doctor contacts.
Contact List: One page of phone numbers for family, your lawyer, and your church.
How to Store Them:
Paper Copy: Seal in a Ziploc bag inside a fire-safe box or locked drawer.
Digital Copy: Save scanned PDFs to a password-protected USB thumb drive for your go-bag.
Pocket Handout Card
(Cut along the line, print on small cards, and pass out to neighbors or small groups)
=====================================================
QUICK SAFETY CHECKLIST
=====================================================
Delete unused browser extensions & disable AI panels.
Turn on 2-Factor code protection on online accounts.
Download Signal for secure private texting.
Turn off unused phone camera & location permissions.
Put paper copies of your ID, meds, & benefits in a safe spot.
Need help setting this up?
Call / Text: ___________________________
=====================================================
A Word of Encouragement
"My life has been one near-miss miracle after another—yet Jesus kept coming, catching me at the cliff’s edge every time. The same God who rescued me is ready to steady you. Practical readiness plus steadfast faith equals resilience no power can steal."
— Sheryl Clyde / Thunderbird
Next Steps
Run a 15-minute demo after service to show people how to check phone permissions.
Host a document scanning night with a laptop and portable scanner.
Pair up prayer partners so everyone has a direct check-in contact.