It is true that we are more online in today’s age than we have ever been before. Social media platforms, online shopping, and even searching the internet for a good place to eat are everyday occurrences. In this internet age, it is essential that we learn more about how to find and keep our privacy online.
The first and most basic tip about finding privacy online is to share as little personal information as possible. It is common practice for people to post about themselves on social media, and the information might seem inconsequential. But in reality, hackers or people wishing to find information about you can do it easily. This includes companies who can personalize their advertisements to you based on your online activity.
Personal information should never be given out online if you wish to maintain your privacy in all areas. This may seem obvious, but you would be surprised how many people freely give out information on their social media accounts and then are surprised when their privacy is breached.
Consider using a VPN
A virtual private network (also known as a VPN) is an excellent way to render your online activities completely anonymous. A VPN works by creating a totally private network from an otherwise public internet connection. Your IP address will be completely covered, and all online activities from your IP address will not be traced.
Using a VPN when you are on public WiFi is good practice. Public WiFi includes a library, a café, or a restaurant. It is easier for hackers and internet providers to see your personal information when you use public WiFi, so a VPN will protect you and keep your data anonymous.
Use a private search engine
True online privacy is hard to come by when you are using a typical search engine. The Deep Searches private search engine does not keep track of cookies or use javascript, so the terms you search and the sites you visit are truly unrecorded. This keeps your online activity private, even more so than simply using incognito mode.
A private search engine is the best choice to keep your online activity from being seen, and they are free and easy to use.
Get good antivirus software
Viruses and software with malicious intent are sadly all over the internet, and they can seriously corrupt your computer and the data within it. Antivirus software protects your computer from being remotely taken over by hackers or vicious code that aim to view or release your personal information. This also includes updating your antivirus software, as installations frequently come about in response to new hacking attempts. You should not only find quality antivirus software, but maintain it as well!
Don’t click unknown links or advertisements
Finally, you can protect your online privacy by only clicking links and advertisements that you are familiar with. Malware or hacking initiatives can hide inside mundane-appearing advertisements and links, and when you click them, access to your data and personal information can be given to hackers. Much in the same way that antivirus software protects your computer, exercising caution with your online clicks protects your privacy and essentials from hackers.
As you can see with these tips, online privacy is difficult to maintain. It must be an effort that comes from all sides. Luckily, being careful about what you share online and what links you click as well as using a private search engine is an excellent place to start! With these tips, you can maintain your online privacy.
