Online security and privacy issues have become the primary concern in recent years. Many questions have been raised concerning the security of one’s information in the age of technology. So many tech giants like Facebook, Google, Twitter, etc., have been called out for not adhering to laws and regulations concerning data privacy.
Today half of the population has access to the internet. The majority of the business and transactions are turning virtual. We cannot deny that it made our life much easier, but at what cost? Are our data and privacy being compromised?
What are the main issues that concern online security and privacy?
It is inevitable to face security threats when you are an online user. Your data privacy becomes vulnerable to unknown online threats. Here are some of the issues regarding online security and privacy:
- Snooping
You are prone to privacy and security once you are online. There are multiple trackers used for different purposes. These trackers track your online transactions and record your search history. Doing this will give them an idea about your interest and who you are.
These methods are applied mainly for advertising purposes that allow advertisers to present ads per your interest and taste. However, all these tracking activities may fall into the hands of cybercriminals, increasing the online risk.
- Mishandling of information
Most of the services like e-banking or e-business portals require your personal information to continue the service. During the process, the sites primarily store cookies and your details. Often, the details are not encrypted that allows easy access to anyone. The whole process puts your details in a vulnerable state where a hacker can do anything with your data.
Online security threats are inevitable. Therefore, to prevent all these unknown threats, there are some methods you can apply to protect your privacy. Here are some of the tools and techniques that are simple and easy to follow:
- Installing privacy monitor
We all can accept the fact that most of us avoid reading the website or app privacy policies. It is lengthy and arduous. Without reading the entire policies, we just clicked on the “I agree” button. But what we are not aware of is that it allows companies to have the upper hand over our data privacy.
Therefore, to prevent this problem, you can install a privacy monitor. It will help you see the data privacy scores rated by lawyers who have read the entire privacy policy.
- Check your website security breach
Are you curious to know if your email or password is compromised? Well, there is a website that allows you to see if there is any breach of privacy. You can visit the site “haveibeenpwned.com” that will give you instant results. If there is a breach of privacy, you can change the password.
- Switching to private search engines
Search engines help you find various types of information on the internet. However, unknown to you, multiple data you have searched are taken from your IP address linked to your device. Hence, switching to private search engines is more favorable.
Is there an alternative to Google? There are various search engines like DuckDuckGO, Startpage, Searx that offer more privacy and security. They don’t store your data, block advertising trackers, etc. So, if you want more secure and private browsing, these are better alternatives.
- Securing your email
Email clients like Gmail, Outlook, Mail, etc., organizes and sends your mail messages. These free mail services are popular and used constantly. The email clients don’t encrypt your data, nor do they provide privacy. Hence, allowing your email account vulnerable to various online threats.
However, some alternatives can protect your email. You can use ProtonMail that encrypts your mail automatically. Unlike other mail services, they will not ask for your data. Because of its encryption-based, your emails are safe and protected.
- Virtual Private Network (VPN)
A VPN helps encrypt your search data, secure your online identity, and don’t disclose your IP address. It is essential when you are using public Wi-Fi as it helps you to browse anonymously. It is also advisable to use paid VPN as they are more reliable. Both CNET and PC Magazine highly recommend NordVPN. Some other high scoring VPNs are ProtonVPN and Private Internet Access VPN.…