Living in a world of cyber technologies, online privacy has already become a privilege. Though initially created as a common space for virtual communication and sharing some pieces of data, today, the Internet has evolved into a highly sophisticated system that crept into nearly any sphere of our life, both public and personal. And even if you are a regular home user and don't own any strategic, tactical or important information, you can still get under surveillance. Hence, today, the issue of online privacy is as acute as never before. So, let's look into this problem in more detail and try to figure out some simple yet, effective protection methods.
Privacy Attacks: a Myth or Real Threat
For commercial organizations and financial institutions, not to mention any strategic objects, all sorts of digital attacks have long become an everyday reality . Both big corporations and smaller companies invest a lot in information protection to safeguard their business. Yet, now, even if you are a regular guy with a couple of accounts in popular social media networks, you are already at risk. Who gives a hoot for you, you wonder?
The very first who has access to all your online actions is your Internet service provider. And even if you are not fussed about that fact, you can't deny it, and you shouldn't neglect it. Next, you'll be surprised to know how many commercial entities might be interested in your personal data, from common scammers and financial fraudsters to legal businesses who want to find out more about you to sell you their products and services.
We all got used that to get access to their services, many web-sites require access to your personal data and use cookies, and we willingly and readily provide this access since we can hardly imagine our daily life without those services. Meanwhile, floating around the Internet (though claimed to be securely protected), those data can be used by malicious invaders and hackers for their fraudulent schemes. Finally, when it comes to digital privacy, our own governments should not be overlooked as well. The Snowden case disclosures are real and they revealed that a global surveillance system exists and constantly monitors your online activity. The proverbial "Big Brother is watching you" is not fiction anymore.
What Can I Do to Protect Myself?
Instead of ignoring digital attack threats, it's better to accept them and undertake some measures to prevent your informational privacy breach and continue visiting your favorite sites with more peace of mind.
Filter the personal info you provide on social media
First and foremost, restrain from oversharing information on social. You don't have to mention your address or zip code, your date and place of birth, and other personal data. And the more so, you are not obliged to fill in those "About me" sections that seem pretty innocent and nothing special at a glance. Yet, that info might further be used by financial criminals in the wrong way. Likewise, never use your pet's name, date birth or your mother's maiden name as a password or a control question while registering an account, pick for that purpose anything that has no direct connection to your personal identity and won't be misused.
Surf the web anonymously
Most popular browsers (such as Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari, Opera) keep your temporary Internet files, cookies, and browsing history by default. Thus, you should either delete those data manually or, what is easier and better at the end, surf the web in a private mode. All mentioned browsers also provide that option, which is called an Incognito mode, Private Browsing, etc. and can be intuitively found in the main browser settings. When activated, this mode will prevent any other users from tracking your browsing history and all your browsing data will be deleted once you close the window.
Though convenient and functional, the private mode is not 100% safe. To achieve the highest level of online anonymity, it's better to use a VPN services. Great guides and reviews can be found on the VPNpro website. A virtual network service hides your real IP address by masking it behind some kind of public internet connection. This protection measure is especially helpful and efficient if you often use free WiFi in public places.
One more way to shield your online activities is to download an ad-blocking software that will keep those pesky pop-up advertisements at bay. Not only are they annoying and can distract your attention but also they are meant to collect your browsing info to send you targeted ads afterward.
Create strong passwords
A long and intricate password is one of the best ways to protect your accounts from hackers and online frauds. Yet, let's be honest, most of us apply the same password to several, if not to all, accounts. On the one hand, it is close to impossible to remember dozens of passwords but on the other hand, using the same combination drastically decreases its security. Hence, it's preferable to use strong passwords and create a different password for each account. Meanwhile, one of the password manager apps will help you generate random secure passwords and store them safely.
Go to safe links
Can you swear you always check the safety of websites you visit? And do you actually know how to check that safety? If the answer to both questions is "no," chances are high your PC or laptop is often exposed to digital attacks. The good news is that you are not alone and it's mostly tech people who really know what it's all about. However, to protect your sensitive info, always check that a website you visit has HTTPS in its address. All non-HTTPS sites might have some malicious software that will gain access to your personal info.
Pick reliable antivirus software
Though all the above-described measures really work and greatly enhance your online privacy protection, quality antivirus software should in no way be neglected. Viruses and malware contain built-in corruptive and harmful codes that can damage both your privacy and your PC hardware. You can't avoid it but you can set up a solid defense by using and regularly updating good antivirus software.
Bottom Line
Nowadays, staying safe online is like staying safe in your household. Just like you keep your entrance door closed, mind to take care of your digital privacy. A well-thought combo of suggested measures will help you feel safe when connected to the Worldwide Web.
