# Best Practices

Follow these guidelines to maximize your privacy and security on KayakNet.

## For All Users

### 1. Keep Software Updated

Always run the latest version:

```bash
./kayakd --auto-update
```

Updates include security patches and improvements.

### 2. Protect Your Identity Key

Your `identity.key` is your identity. If compromised, an attacker can impersonate you.

**Do:**

* Back up to encrypted storage
* Use strong device encryption
* Delete if identity is burned

**Don't:**

* Share with anyone
* Store in cloud unencrypted
* Use same identity for sensitive and non-sensitive activity

### 3. Use Strong Device Security

KayakNet can't protect you if your device is compromised:

* Full disk encryption
* Strong passwords/biometrics
* Keep OS and apps updated
* Don't install untrusted software

### 4. Separate Identities

Use different nodes/identities for:

* Personal vs sensitive activity
* Different personas
* Testing vs production

### 5. Be Careful What You Share

Even with encryption:

* Don't share real names, photos, locations
* Assume messages may be saved by recipients
* Be vague about identifying details

## For Chat Users

### Private Rooms

For sensitive discussions:

1. Create a private room
2. Only share name with trusted participants
3. Use unique room names (not guessable)

### Verifying Contacts

Before sensitive conversation:

1. Verify Node ID through separate channel
2. Use code words or shared secrets
3. Be suspicious of identity claims

### Message Hygiene

* Enable auto-delete for sensitive chats
* Clear history when done
* Don't quote sensitive messages

## For Marketplace Users

### For Buyers

1. **Check seller reputation** - Read reviews
2. **Start small** - Test with small orders first
3. **Use escrow** - Never pay outside escrow
4. **Verify addresses** - Double-check crypto addresses
5. **Document everything** - Save order details

### For Sellers

1. **Secure crypto wallets** - Hardware wallet recommended
2. **Accurate listings** - Prevent disputes
3. **Ship securely** - Don't reveal return address
4. **Good communication** - Respond to buyers
5. **Separate business wallet** - Don't mix with personal

### Escrow Safety

* Never release funds before confirming receipt
* Open disputes promptly if issues arise
* Provide evidence in disputes
* Don't accept payment outside system

## For High-Security Users

### Additional Layers

Consider adding:

* VPN (before KayakNet)
* Tor (as transport)
* Dedicated hardware
* Air-gapped devices

### Operational Security

* Use public WiFi (carefully)
* Vary your patterns
* Assume you're being watched
* Have plausible deniability

### Compartmentalization

* Different devices for different activities
* Don't cross-contaminate identities
* Separate digital footprints

## For Node Operators

### Secure Your Server

If running a public node:

* Minimal installed software
* Regular security updates
* Firewall configuration
* No unnecessary services

### Logging Policy

* Disable all logging
* Don't retain connection metadata
* Secure any necessary logs

### Physical Security

* Encrypted drives
* Secure facility
* Protection from seizure

## Common Mistakes

### Don't

❌ Use same identity across networks ❌ Connect to KayakNet without encryption ❌ Trust unverified contacts ❌ Store sensitive data unencrypted ❌ Use weak passwords ❌ Ignore software updates ❌ Share personal information ❌ Use KayakNet on compromised devices

### Do

✅ Keep software updated ✅ Use strong device security ✅ Verify contacts ✅ Separate identities ✅ Back up keys securely ✅ Use private rooms for sensitive chats ✅ Always use escrow ✅ Report security issues responsibly

## If Compromised

### Signs of Compromise

* Unexpected messages from your identity
* Account settings changed
* Unknown transactions
* Peers report strange behavior

### Recovery Steps

1. **Stop using compromised identity**
2. **Generate new identity** (delete `identity.key`)
3. **Notify trusted contacts** through other channels
4. **Review device security**
5. **Consider hardware replacement**

## Reporting Security Issues

Found a vulnerability?

1. **Don't disclose publicly**
2. Email: <security@kayaknet.io>
3. Include detailed reproduction steps
4. Allow 90 days for fix
5. Coordinate disclosure

We appreciate responsible disclosure!


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