In a recent Nature article, Michael Brooks shares advice from scholars about how scientists looking to protect themselves from online hate. The author argues that as political divisions grow, today’s researchers face rising risks of digital harassment and data breaches. Brooks shares tips around proactive measures that scientist can take to enhance cybersecurity, such as seeking institutional support, removing personal information from the internet, and using password managers and VPNs. The author also advises encrypting communications with secure apps and backing up data across multiple sites. Ultimately, Brooks emphasizes that safeguarding personal and research data is an essential skill for scientists navigating today’s polarized digital landscape.
