Modern technology and the internet are supposed to be a useful tool that enables us to learn, share, connect and speak our minds freely. In reality, however, this cyberspace that all of us inhabit in one form or another does not feel safe or even private to many of us. Entrenched business models, overreaching governments and a lack of general knowledge or disinterest among the broad mass of internet users have created an atmosphere of insecurity, surveillance, censorship and cyber criminality.

Everyone can (and frankly should) learn the basics of digital self defense in order to protect his/her sensitive data, privacy and free speech.

We want to help with that. Whatever your background is, just come by and bring along your device(s) and concerns.

Whether you are a technical person or not, there is something to learn, discuss or teach for everyone. The less you know the more you can learn and for us there is no such thing as a stupid question. In order to avoid stupid and/or unhelpful answers, however, we will stick to a simple code of conduct:

1. The basic questions are the most important ones. If you feel uncomfortable asking a question or don't understand the answer it is our fault and you should let us know.

2. We want to empower you to protect yourself. So we work together and give advice, but the only person who touches your device or keyboard is you.

3. We do not tolerate any form of hostile, condescending or exclusive behaviour and will act accordingly. Everyone is welcome, regardless of origin, gender, appearance, opinion, belief or ability. Just be nice and helpful to each other.

There is a multitude of ways to improve your privacy and security online. We want to focus on the most effective ones and keep it simple at the same time. Apart from a few central topics we want to involve you in the discussion about things you need and want to learn. In each session we will concentrate on a single topic area and try to offer something useful for every level of prior knowledge - from zero to expert. When we're done every participant will know a new trick, be comfortable using a new tool and/or have new insights that help to make informed decisions about their online lifes.

This time around we will have a look at passwords, logins and authentication. We'll discuss best practices and depending on your interests may help you to set up and use password managers, 2-factor-authentication or even nerdier stuff.

This will be a recurring event and over time we want to cover a variety of topic areas and build a community of informed and responsible individuals around the idea that the internet can be a safe and enjoyable place for everyone.

All content of the event can be provided in German and English. The venue is a barrier free non smoking area. Unfortunately, the toilets are not accessible with wheelchairs. Alle Inhalte der Veranstaltung können auf Deutsch und Englisch vermittelt werden. Der Veranstaltungsort ist eine barrierefreie Nichtraucherzone. Leider sind die Toiletten nicht mit Rollstühlen zugänglich.

This meetup is hosted by Alexander Schwager in cooperation with ThoughtWorks and a few facilitators, loosely associated with the CCC in Hamburg.

Doors open at 6:30 for drinks and mingling The session will start at 7pm.