These days, the notion of securing your privacy from the online community has become a challenging task. Sites all over the place spy on what you do, hackers try to nab your data, and governments keep tabs on you all the time. However, there are some tactics you could deploy or methods that could help you do so.
This manual is about the means of protection of your personal information on the web. We will discuss the usage of such tools as VPN to hide your activity on the internet, encrypted applications to secretly communicate, and two-factor authentication to provide extra security to your accounts.
All these along with topics such as having strong passwords and updating your computer software will be covered in this workshop. Furthermore, we will discuss how to differentiate between real and fake websites and how to be careful while using the internet.
Through these strategies and skills, you will not only know how to protect yourself online but also prevent the access of your private data by outsiders. And there are a lot of them. Hence, learn more about the online privacy tips you will apply. Let's get started!
Virtual Private Network (VPN)
One of the major key points to learn how to keep your online privacy intact is VPN. A VPN encrypts your internet connection, directing all your online activity through a secure server that reaches your destination before it reaches its final destination. This encryption of yours keeps out hackers, internet service providers, and government agencies away from prying on your online activities. You will have learned how to safeguard your privacy online if you are careful and ensure you select the right provider for a VPN.
Select a VPN that puts privacy first, has a zero-log policy enforced, and provides robust encryption protocols like OpenVPN or IKEv2. You can look into server locations, speed, and customer support when selecting the VPN provider. Some VPNs also have extras such as split tunneling (that selects the traffic going through the VPN) and kill switch (the internet is cut off when the VPN
Browse Privately
People spend a lot of time online now thanks to technology and devices that give you instant access to the internet. Some time is spent browsing and this is how hackers target their victims. You can go into private browsing mode or learn how to make safari private and go into safari incognito mode. You can find some tips here https://moonlock.com/private-browsing-safari that will help you do this. But keep in mind that having access to a VPN provider can save you a lot of this hassle.
Private browsing modes prevent your browser from storing your browsing history, cookies, and other data locally on your device. While private browsing modes can enhance privacy, they do not make you completely anonymous online. Your internet service provider (ISP) and the websites you visit can still track your activity. For stronger privacy protection, consider using a VPN in conjunction with private browsing modes.
Encrypted Messaging Apps
Additionally, it is not simply a VPN that keeps you safe, conversations need to be private as well. Encrypted messaging apps such as WhatsApp, and Signal, use end-to-end encryption, meaning only you and the recipient can read the messages. There are some apps for the same purpose you can use. Cryptocurrency Signal holds a reputation for its strong encryption and privacy-oriented options. It is open source; therefore, its code can be reviewed by security professionals.
WhatsApp also uses end-to-end encryption by default mode for all messages, calls, and media within the app. Although Telegram encrypts “Secret Chats” using an end-to-end encryption method, it doesn’t encrypt ordinary chats as a rule. Features like these shouldn't be the only criteria for selecting a messaging app, so evaluate each app to choose the one that fits your needs.
Two-factor authentication (2FA)
You might have noticed that more and more apps and websites are introducing two-factor authentication. 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring you to provide a second form of verification (e.g., a temporary code sent to your phone) in addition to your password.
Authenticator apps generate time-based one-time passwords (TOTPs) that are more secure than SMS-based codes, which can be intercepted by attackers. Consider using hardware-based 2FA devices like YubiKey for even stronger protection against account takeover.
Strong, Unique Passwords
If the internet is your everyday thing, then without a doubt you should have some accounts on a number of those websites and apps. Registering helps in tracking any order or data from a simple platform. However, given the number of applications and websites involved, you are required to set up a separate username and password for each one. It is easy to assume that hackers will never access your personal data, but they often try a variety of unconventional methods to get at it. It is advised to use powerful and unique passwords instead of common ones, but you need to remember their combinations. Do not worry, I would advise you to use the password manager.
Password managers are a good option to reduce the risk of complete exposure of passwords in a single hack. Some famous password managers like LastPass, Bitwarden, and 1Password include autofill and secure password-sharing features too. Make sure you have a strong master password to guard your password manager and if you also turn on the multi-factor authentication it will be even more secure.
Regularly Update Software and Apps
Companies frequently roll out software updates that are aimed at fixing the security holes found by software engineers or in some cases, researchers. Enable the feature of automatic update whenever possible to guarantee that your operation system, browser, and apps are always updated. Consider using software with known vulnerabilities because attackers can exploit old systems with these vulnerabilities to gain access to your system.
Review App Permissions
Most software is asking for foolish permissions that can be a hazard to your own privacy and security. Occasionally review the permissions you have granted to apps on your devices and cancel the permissions with a purpose not related to app operation. Take into account permission management tools on the Android (News - Alert) platform which can be used to effectively control all application permissions.
Be Cautious with Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi networks are usually insecure and open for snooping by attackers. So, you should avoid accessing sensitive data (for instance, online banking or email) and not log in while connected to public Wi-Fi networks. Try to use a VPN when using public Wi-Fi as it is an option that encrypts your internet traffic and consequently protects your data from malicious interception.
Final Thoughts
Privacy on the internet is as essential as oxygen. Here, we have given a few simple ways to achieve it such as using VPNs and strong passwords. However, be computer-wise, pay attention to online scams, and always make sure your applications are up to date. By implementing this principle, you can protect yourself and not let your private information leak out. But don't stop there, keep questing and be safe on your way!
