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Module 1: Next-Gen Identity Management
Overview
This module focuses on modern authentication methods and digital identity protection. Students will learn to move beyond traditional passwords to more secure authentication mechanisms and protect their online identities from compromise.
Learning Duration
[To be determined]
Prerequisites
- Basic computer and internet usage skills
- Email account and smartphone access
- No prior cybersecurity knowledge required
Topics
1.1 Beyond Passwords: The Transition to Passkeys (FIDO2)
Key Concepts:
- FIDO2 and WebAuthn standards
- Passkey technology
- Passwordless authentication
- Device-based authentication
Content Areas:
- Why passwords are vulnerable
- How passkeys work
- Setting up passkeys on iPhone/iPad
- Setting up passkeys on Android devices
- Setting up passkeys on Windows/Mac
- Managing passkeys across devices
- Website and service compatibility
[Detailed content to be added]
1.2 Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Best Practices
Key Concepts:
- Authentication factors (something you know, have, are)
- MFA methods comparison
- Security vs. convenience tradeoffs
- Recovery strategies
Content Areas:
- Types of MFA: SMS, authenticator apps, hardware keys
- Security comparison of MFA methods
- Setting up authenticator apps (Google Authenticator, Authy, Microsoft Authenticator)
- Using hardware security keys (YubiKey, Titan Key)
- Backup codes and recovery methods
- MFA for critical accounts (email, banking, social media)
[Detailed content to be added]
1.3 Managing Digital Footprints & Shadow Profiles
Key Concepts:
- Digital footprint types (active vs. passive)
- Data broker ecosystem
- Shadow profiles
- Online reputation management
Content Areas:
- Assessing your digital footprint
- Understanding shadow profiles
- Data broker removal services
- Google yourself: monitoring your online presence
- Managing old accounts and unused services
- Right to deletion under privacy laws
[Detailed content to be added]
1.4 Secure Password Managers & Recovery Strategies
Key Concepts:
- Password manager security
- Master password best practices
- Secure credential storage
- Emergency access
Content Areas:
- Choosing a password manager (1Password, Bitwarden, Dashlane)
- Creating a strong master password or passphrase
- Storing and organizing passwords
- Sharing passwords securely with family
- Emergency access and legacy planning
- Password manager backup strategies
- Migrating from browser-saved passwords
[Detailed content to be added]
Practical Exercises
Exercise 1: Set Up Passkeys
Objective: Enable passkeys on at least 3 major services Duration: [To be added] Steps: [To be added]
Exercise 2: Implement MFA
Objective: Enable MFA on all critical accounts Duration: [To be added] Checklist:
- Email accounts
- Banking and financial services
- Social media accounts
- Work/professional accounts
- Cloud storage services
Exercise 3: Digital Footprint Audit
Objective: Assess and reduce your digital footprint Duration: [To be added] Steps: [To be added]
Exercise 4: Password Manager Setup
Objective: Install and configure a password manager Duration: [To be added] Steps: [To be added]
Quick Reference Guides
Passkey Setup Guide
- [iOS/iPad OS setup]
- [Android setup]
- [Windows setup]
- [macOS setup]
MFA Setup Links
- [Gmail MFA]
- [Facebook MFA]
- [Banking MFA guides]
- [To be added]
Assessment
Knowledge Check
- What are the three factors of authentication?
- Why are passkeys more secure than passwords?
- What is a shadow profile?
- When should you use a hardware security key?
Practical Assessment
Title: Secure Your Digital Identity Tasks:
- Set up passkeys on 3+ services
- Enable MFA on all critical accounts
- Complete digital footprint audit
- Configure password manager [Detailed rubric to be added]
Resources
Recommended Password Managers
- 1Password
- Bitwarden (open source)
- Dashlane
- LastPass
Hardware Security Keys
- YubiKey
- Google Titan
- Thetis FIDO2
Tools & Services
- Have I Been Pwned (breach checking)
- DeleteMe (data broker removal)
- Privacy.com (virtual cards)
Further Reading
- [FIDO Alliance documentation]
- [Password manager comparison guides]
- [Privacy tool reviews]
Last Updated: 2026-01-07