a16z Security Director's Personal Safety Checklist

Writing by: a16z crypto

Translation: Chopper, Foresight News

Recently, the encryption industry has seen intensive conferences and increased travel demands. a16z crypto security chief and former U.S. Secret Service agent Carl Agnelli has compiled a practical personal safety guide, dedicated to every Web3 professional on the go.

Step 1: Establish Correct Security Awareness

Always clarify what is “normal,” and stay alert to any abnormal behavior.

Distance is safety. Instead of confronting, maintain distance: if you notice suspicious behavior, leave immediately or change locations.

When something feels off, trust your instincts.

Take a moment to consider scenarios like “What if… I should do?”

Develop small safety habits now to avoid chaos after an incident.

Step 2: Stay Focused in Public Places

Maintain a relaxed but alert state, without overreacting; just pay attention to your surroundings.

Lift your head and observe when walking or traveling, leave one ear free without headphones, and avoid being fully immersed in your phone.

Change your routine routes periodically, such as your commute, workout times, coffee, and lunch spots.

Do not discuss sensitive plans loudly in public areas or ride-shares.

Step 3: During Outings (Day or Night)

Walk with a clear purpose, avoid appearing confused or hesitant.

When drinking or going out late at night, do not walk home alone; share your route and location with trusted people.

Carry a flashlight or pepper spray, and hold it in hand when walking alone at night.

Never discuss crypto holdings with strangers or in public.

Arrange a meeting point with friends or colleagues to prevent getting separated.

Do not post real-time location updates.

Step 4: Make Travel and Hotel Stays Safer

Maintain “low-profile travel,” blend into the environment, and avoid flaunting wealth.

Do not post travel plans in advance or publicly share your current location.

Get into the habit: upon checking into a hotel, familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and stairwells.

Place shoes and essential items within easy reach to create a simple emergency kit.

Pay attention to any unusual things in your room; trust your instincts.

Use the hotel safe, and store some items you’ll need in the morning (like a shoe), so you won’t forget your valuables.

Step 5: Extra Precautions for High-Risk Positions

Crypto industry workers can set up a bait wallet with transaction records as a response tool if coerced.

Avoid wearing clothing with company logos in public.

Reduce digital traces: consider using data wiping services, and opt out of public asset databases.

Upgrade home security: install cameras or motion-activated lights, especially near entrances.

Avoid consolidating all assets or identity info into a single account or device; manage them separately.

Practice noticing exits and cover points in public places, making it an instinct.

Use a P.O. box or office address instead of your home address; if possible, buy property under an LLC name rather than personally.

Step 6: Maintain Security Habits

Keep a low-profile public image.

Do not publicly share family photos.

Regularly check home security: sensors, cameras, door locks, lights.

Conduct a quick “scenario rehearsal” monthly to stay alert.

Regularly update digital security settings, including bait wallets.