by TheGuard

Hail, traveler! Listen well, for these are troubled times, and danger lurks not just on the roads of Skyrim, but in the messages and missives you receive. Guard yourself against the unseen perils of the digital realm, as you would from an arrow to the knee. Follow these wise words and keep your online self safe from harm.

“Stay Alert, Keep Safe”

Just as a true Nord stays vigilant in the wilderness, you must be wary of messages bearing unknown links. Whether it be a courier delivering a suspicious email, a messenger hawk bringing a text, or even a whisper through a social network, be on your guard. Cyber bandits often disguise their traps well, using links that lead to ambushes of malware, phishing schemes, and other digital nasties.

“What is it? Dragons?”

Nay, traveler, it’s not dragons but phishing attempts you must be wary of. These foul schemes seek to steal your secrets—passwords, credit card numbers, and other precious data. If a message claims to be urgent, promising riches or threats, take heed. Verify the source before you even think of clicking. Hover over the link without clicking to see where it truly leads, and ask yourself, “Would a true friend or reputable company send such a message?”

“A Guard’s Life is Full of Hard Choices”

Be disciplined, as a guard in Whiterun, and resist the temptation to click. Even if a message appears to come from a friend or trusted ally, be cautious. Accounts can be compromised, and enemies can disguise themselves well. If in doubt, confirm with the sender through another means of communication. Better to be safe than to fall into a trap.

“I Used to Be an Adventurer Like You…”

Until I clicked on a link that led to my ruin. Avoid the same fate by equipping yourself with the best defenses. Keep your devices fortified with up-to-date antivirus software and ensure your operating systems are as strong as a Nord’s shield. Employ the use of spam filters and firewalls to guard your digital gate.

“Check the Links with a Trusted Source”

Before you click on any link, seek the counsel of a trusted sage like VirusTotal or other link-checking services. These wise tools can inspect links for any hidden dangers. To use them, simply copy the suspicious link and paste it into the search bar on VirusTotal or Google Safe Browsing. These sites will scan the link and inform you if it is safe or if it harbors any threats.

“No Lollygagging!”

Time is of the essence when dealing with suspicious links. Do not delay in deleting dubious messages, and report them if possible. Your vigilance helps keep the realm safer for all.

“Protect Yourself Right”

Finally, remember that a true Nord relies on their instincts. Trust your gut—if something feels off about a message or link, it probably is. And always remember, you are your own best guard. Stand tall, stay sharp, and keep your wits about you.

May these words serve you well, traveler. Protect yourself as you would your kin, and may you never fall victim to the perils of unknown links. Safe travels, and may the Divines watch over your path.

The Guard