In an age where technology seeps into every corner of our lives, privacy has become both a precious asset and an elusive target. With companies tracking your every click and cyber threats looming, how can you shield your personal data? Well, don’t panic just yet. There are steps—simple ones—that you can take right now to boost your tech privacy. Ready to dive in? Here are seven practical ways to take control of your online privacy and security.
Step 1: Adjust Device Privacy Settings
Many devices—whether smartphones, tablets, or laptops—come with default settings that share more information than most people realize. So, why not change them? Open the settings on your device, and you might be surprised at the number of options for privacy control.
- Location Tracking: Does your phone know where you are at all times? Most likely. To prevent this, go to your location settings and disable tracking for any unnecessary apps. According to a Pew Research Center study, about 81% of Americans feel they have little control over their data once it’s collected by companies. It’s time to reclaim some of that control.
- Ad Tracking: Many devices allow you to limit ad tracking. Although this won’t eliminate ads, it will stop companies from tracking you as you browse. Look for “Ad Preferences” under your device’s privacy settings and switch it off.
Step 2: Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Passwords are the keys to your online kingdom. Yet, according to NordPass, the most common password in 2022 was still “123456.” Hardly hacker-proof, right? To better protect yourself, start by creating passwords that are long, complex, and unique to each account.
- Password Managers: For those who find it difficult to remember dozens of passwords, a password manager can generate and store them securely. These tools create randomized, complex passwords that even seasoned hackers find challenging.
- Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): An extra layer of protection can go a long way. Enable 2FA on your accounts whenever possible. With 2FA, even if someone cracks your password, they’ll need a second piece of information—like a code sent to your phone—to access your account.
Step 3: VPN: Your Shield on Public Networks
A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, which means any data you send or receive gets scrambled, making it unreadable to anyone who might be snooping. Even if a hacker intercepts your data, they’ll be left with nothing but a jumbled mess they can’t decipher.
iPhone users have a similar feature called Apple Private Relay, which is often called a VPN. In fact, real VPN apps with this feature have many differences. You can clearly see the difference with the VeePN privacy comparison at this link. There are more differences than similarities. If you have a choice, a VPN would be the preferred option.
Step 4: Install Reliable Security Software
Just like a guard dog watches over your home, security software acts as a first line of defense for your device. Invest in a reputable antivirus or anti-malware program to protect against threats that may slip through the cracks.
- Real-time Scanning: Choose software that offers real-time scanning capabilities. This feature helps to detect and neutralize threats before they can harm your device or steal your data.
- Firewall Protection: Ensure the firewall on your device is enabled. A firewall monitors incoming and outgoing network traffic, blocking unauthorized access to your private information.
Step 5: Be Mindful of Public Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi at coffee shops, airports, and hotels? Convenient, sure. Secure? Not so much. Public Wi-Fi networks can be hotspots for cybercriminals looking to intercept your data.
- VPN: A VPN can protect your data by encrypting your internet traffic. Moreover, even a free VPN extension can provide data encryption and connection via a VPN server. Statistics show that nearly 70% of adults worldwide are unaware of how VPNs can protect them. Don’t be part of that statistic—consider a VPN for safer browsing.
- Mobile Hotspot: If you’re hesitant about using public Wi-Fi, consider creating a mobile hotspot from your phone instead. Yes, it might eat up some data, but it’s far more secure.
Step 6: Control Your Social Media Presence
Social media platforms are notorious for collecting data. If you’re sharing too much, you’re giving away information that could be used to target you. Start by reassessing your privacy settings on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
- Limit What You Share: Do you need to share your exact location in real-time? Probably not. Disable location-sharing features and avoid posting personal details that could expose you to identity theft.
- Privacy Settings: Take some time to review and adjust your privacy settings. Ensure that only friends or people you trust can see your posts and personal information.
Step 7: Understand App Permissions
Every time you download an app, it asks for certain permissions—camera access, location, contacts. Before hitting “Allow,” ask yourself if the app really needs that access.
- Permission Manager: Many devices have a Permission Manager tool. This lets you view and adjust the permissions for each app. For instance, does a flashlight app really need access to your contacts? Probably not.
- Regular Checks: Even if you adjusted permissions when you downloaded the app, it’s worth revisiting them regularly. Apps update and sometimes change their permission requirements without you realizing it.
Wrapping It Up
Privacy doesn’t come automatically—it’s something you must actively pursue. By following these seven easy steps, you can start building a more secure, private relationship with your technology. While you may not be able to eliminate all risks, small adjustments can make a big difference. So, are you ready to reclaim your digital privacy? Remember, it’s never too late to start taking tech privacy seriously.