a16z Security Lead’s Personal Safety Checklist

By: a16z crypto

Translated by: Chopper, Foresight News

With the recent surge in crypto conferences and increased travel demands, Carl Agnelli—Head of Security at a16z crypto and former U.S. Secret Service agent—has compiled this practical personal safety guide for every Web3 professional on the move.

Step One: Cultivate the Right Security Mindset

• Always define what “normal” looks like—and stay alert to anything unusual.
• Distance equals safety. Rather than confronting a threat, create space: leave immediately or change locations upon spotting suspicious behavior.
• Trust your gut when something feels off.
• Spend time thinking through “what if…” scenarios.
• Build small security habits now—so you won’t panic later.

Step Two: Stay Focused in Public Spaces

• Stay relaxed but aware—not tense, just observant of your surroundings.
• Keep your head up while walking or commuting; leave one ear free of headphones, and avoid being fully absorbed in your phone.
• Vary your routine periodically—e.g., commute methods, workout times, coffee or lunch spots.
• Never discuss sensitive travel plans out loud in public areas or ride-hailing vehicles.

Step Three: Safety While Traveling (Day or Night)

• Walk with purpose—avoid appearing lost or hesitant.
• Never walk home alone after drinking or late at night; share your location and itinerary with someone you trust.
• Carry a flashlight or pepper spray—and hold it ready before walking alone at night.
• Never disclose your crypto holdings to strangers—or discuss them openly in public.
• Pre-arrange a meeting point with friends or colleagues in case you get separated.
• Never post real-time location updates.

Step Four: Safer Travel and Hotel Stays

• Practice “low-profile travel”: blend in and avoid drawing attention to wealth.
• Don’t announce travel plans in advance or reveal your current location publicly.
• Make it a habit: upon checking into any hotel, first locate emergency exits and stairwells.
• Keep shoes and a few essentials within easy reach—creating a simple emergency kit.
• Notice anything unusual in your room—and trust your instincts.
• Use the hotel safe—and place something you’ll need in the morning inside (e.g., one shoe), so you won’t forget valuables when checking out.

Step Five: Additional Precautions for High-Risk Roles

• Crypto professionals can set up a decoy wallet with transaction history to use as a countermeasure if coerced.
• Avoid wearing clothing with company logos in public.
• Minimize digital footprints: consider using data removal services and opt out of public property databases.
• Upgrade home security—install cameras or motion-sensor lights, especially near entry/exit points.
• Avoid consolidating all assets or identity information into a single account or device—practice distributed management.
• Practice observing exits and cover in public spaces until it becomes second nature.
• Use a P.O. box or office address instead of your home address; where possible, purchase real estate under an LLC rather than in your personal name.

Step Six: Maintain Consistent Security Habits

• Maintain a low-profile public presence.
• Avoid publicly sharing photos of family members.
• Regularly inspect home security systems: sensors, cameras, door locks, lighting.
• Conduct a quick “what-if” drill once per month to stay sharp.
• Periodically update digital security settings—including decoy wallets.