Tips to Improve Your Internet Privacy

You will be surprised to know how visible you are on the internet as marketers and shady people with dubious intentions track your online activities. There are ways however by which you can protect your data and improve your online privacy. Here are some ways to go about it:

Protect your email ID and phone number

Sharing this personal information on online stores, social networks or internet services earns you hundreds of spam emails and nuisance telemarketing calls. Consider creating a separate email account for social networking or online shopping sites so you don’t compromise your private data.

Privacy Settings

Did you know social networking sites store hoards of information about you along with the photos you put up? And all this information is visible to millions of people by default. You should maintain strong privacy settings on all your social media accounts so complete strangers can’t access the information you put out for your friends.

End-to-end Encryption

Use messaging apps that offer end-to-end encryption so that even the messaging service provider can’t view your conversations. Whatsapp is one such app. Note that providers like Google Allo, Facebook Messenger and Telegram only provide ‘encryption in transit’ which means that your conversations are still available on the server’s storage.

Evade Trackers

While surfing the net, your browser discloses your frequently used surfing history. Online marketers use this information to target you with matching ads. You will need to use appropriate software to protect your online history.

Private Wi-Fi Networks

Though it’s always tempting to use free public Wi-Fi networks, you stand the risk of exposing your private information such as credit card details, passwords, and login data to potential hackers. Consider using a VPN or antiviral software to protect your information.

Secure Passwords

Weak passwords are as good as giving them away to passersby. You need to create strong passwords with at least 12 characters comprising symbols, numbers and upper and lower case alphabets.

Permission to Apps and Extensions

Be vigilant when mobile apps and browser extensions ask for permission to access your contact list, camera, microphone or geo-location. While some are genuine, most just want your information for nefarious reasons!

Hope these tips will help you stay safe online!