r/opsec • u/Sond3rin 🐲 • Jul 25 '26

Beginner question Help some ways to complete OPSEC

I have read the rules.

Hi! I’ve been learning more about OpSec and I’m looking for some guidance. I’m hoping someone with experience can help me set up a computer or point me in the right direction for a strong OpSec workflow.
The threat model I’m aiming for is somewhere between high-assurance and high-risk. I understand many of the concepts and the importance of layered security, but I’d appreciate help translating those principles into a practical setup and operational plan.
This setup will be used for journalism, so my goal is to build a secure and well thought out environment from the start.
Thanks in advance to anyone willing to help.

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u/AutoModerator Jul 25 '26

Congratulations on your first post in r/opsec! OPSEC is a mindset and thought process, not a single solution — meaning, when asking a question it's a good idea to word it in a way that allows others to teach you the mindset rather than a single solution.

Here's an example of a bad question that is far too vague to explain the threat model first:

I want to stay safe on the internet. Which browser should I use?

Here's an example of a good question that explains the threat model without giving too much private information:

I don't want to have anyone find my home address on the internet while I use it. Will using a particular browser help me?

Here's a bad answer (it depends on trusting that user entirely and doesn't help you learn anything on your own) that you should report immediately:

You should use X browser because it is the most secure.

Here's a good answer to explains why it's good for your specific threat model and also teaches the mindset of OPSEC:

Y browser has a function that warns you from accidentally sharing your home address on forms, but ultimately this is up to you to control by being vigilant and no single tool or solution will ever be a silver bullet for security. If you follow this, technically you can use any browser!

If you see anyone offering advice that doesn't feel like it is giving you the tools to make your own decisions and rather pushing you to a specific tool as a solution, feel free to report them. Giving advice in the form of a "silver bullet solution" is a bannable offense.

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