Online privacy is the level of online security available for personal and financial data. Currently, there are numerous cases of data breaches due to the growth of technology. The internet isn’t a secure place to be because systems can be compromised. Hackers are using high-end tools to access confidential information without your authorization. Therefore, online privacy is essential for protecting your identity. Below are ways to improve your online privacy:
Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Strong passwords are essential because they deter hackers, thus reducing the risk of identity theft. Create a complex password for all your devices and electronic accounts. The more complex the passcode, the more safe your information will be. Hackers use brute-force attacks to guess your password. This is a trial-and-error method for determining the possible combination of your passcode. In addition, you should use two-factor authentication in your personal accounts.
Browse Online With a Secure VPN
VPN establishes a safe connection between you and the internet. A VPN connection prevents data breaches by encrypting a virtual tunnel. This makes your geographical location and IP address invisible to other users. It plays a significant role in protecting your information from external attackers. In addition, the best VPN connection should prevent interference, snooping, and censorship. VPN can be vital if you are forced to utilize public Wi-Fi.
Data Encryption
You might think your computer data, emails, texts, and other vital details are safe. But you could be wrong. Encrypting your computer’s data is an important step to protecting your information. A password protects your logins, but cybercriminals can access your data from the hard disk. Therefore, before you resale or dispose of devices, reset them to factory settings. Also, ensure you wipe out the data.
Use a Proxy Server
A proxy server is a system that provides a gateway between users and the internet. It helps protect your confidential information from cyber attackers. The best proxy server should provide a valuable layer of data security. You can set it as a firewall or web filter. Apart from data security, there are other benefits of proxy servers:
– Balance internet traffic to reduce the risk of crashes
– Save bandwidth
There are two broad types of proxy servers: forward proxies and reverse proxies. A good example of a proxy server is the Twitch proxy because it hides your IP address from Twitch to mask your identity. The best Twitch proxies will provide an extra layer of online privacy and security.
Disable ad and Data Tracking
Most firms collect your personal data for marketing purposes. There are various ways of disabling ads and data trackers. For instance, if an app asks you to share data or accept cookies, decline. Also, if you’re using an iPhone, ensure you disable cross-app tracking. Data tracking is among the leading causes of cyber attacks.
Don’t Ignore Software Updates
It’s important for your operating system to install the latest updates automatically. Most hackers take advantage of existing vulnerabilities of an app. Therefore, it’s hard for cyber criminals to compromise an app with new features. App developers work hard to outsmart attackers by enhancing security features. In addition, you can download antivirus software to protect your device against malware.
Check Social Privacy Settings
Most people use social media accounts to run businesses. These platforms have a lot of information pertaining to your business entity and personal details. If cybercriminals can access your personal or business data, you’ll be in big trouble. Therefore, you should change your social network account privacy settings. Ensure you often change your passwords.
Review Permissions for Mobile Apps
Most mobile apps prompt you to give a couple of permissions to access device storage, camera, contacts, etc. Some apps can’t function if you decline these permissions, while others can work. In most cases, apps use your information for marketing purposes. On the contrary, some unsafe apps can lead to data breaches. Therefore, it’s a good idea to download apps from trusted sources: app store and play store.
Conclusion
There are various ways to protect your online privacy: use a VPN, encrypt data, review mobile app permissions, update apps, and use proxy servers. In addition, limiting what you share online is important.
