Our data indeed is one of the most valuable assets we need to protect. Despite changes that have made data collection better or even worse, there are no signs to indicate that the threat of privacy invasion will ever disappear.
There’s certainly a risk of the collected data being exploited, with your browsing data falling into the hands of malicious agencies.
True, data collection techniques and methods have improved over time. However, concerns about user privacy still exist. There’s relief around the corner, though. Specific tools boost your privacy without you having to compromise on user experience.
To protect your data, you should focus on what you use the most. For example, you should zero in your efforts on protecting your privacy on WhatsApp if that’s what you use the most. There’s no point going for a decentralized messenger that none of your friends or family uses. Read on as we discuss some easy-to-try options that need no special effort.
More private web browsers
Your PC browser is your window to the internet. It is where you perform everything, right from your banking activities to accessing social media. You have fewer things to be tense about when you choose a browser with good security and robust privacy features. Opt for a browser that has multiple features for protecting privacy. For instance, Mozilla Firefox has made way for users to block browser fingerprinting. Of course, any browser can be of service if you change the default settings.
Private search engines
Everything you search for on the internet reveals a lot about who you are and your work. This data is invaluable, and malicious entities can use it to trap you in a scam. It is where privacy-friendly search engines come into the picture.
There are search engines that let you surf the net without keeping any records of the browsing history you leave behind. There are privacy-friendly search engines that resemble Google closely in their search results. Hence, surfing the net with these search engines should deliver your desired results. One downside is that such browsers will not adjust results according to your previous searches.
A secure instant messaging application
Private messengers are the answer if you want no one to gain access to your conversations except the recipient, be it the government or the app itself. Opt for messengers that come with a lot of valuable and effective safety and privacy features.
It goes without saying that the messenger you zero in on supports end-to-end encryption. So, choose encrypted messaging apps for the best results. Some messengers don’t even ask for your phone number though they may be paid services. Some of these messenger services offer separate versions for work that come with enhanced privacy and security features.
A more private operating system
Your unique requirements may not allow you to opt for Linux instead of Windows. That said, there are still options that offer far better privacy. Some operating systems keep note of your choices and make it a point to update their security features regularly to keep pace with emerging threats to privacy and security.
A secure OS protects you from network intrusion, malware, buffer overload, and denial of service attacks. Acquiring a secure operating system, therefore, merits immediate attention. Luckily, Windows 11 is said to bring multiple features aimed at improving privacy and security.
A password manager
If it’s easy for an attacker to access your online accounts, all your privacy measures go down the drain. That’s why it’s essential to have strong passwords that are hard to guess.
Therefore, you need a password manager. It’s handy having a password manager as it’ll save all your passwords, ensuring their security while you won’t need to worry about remembering them. Password managers also encrypt your data, making it tougher for malicious elements to access your sensitive data like your credit card and Social Security numbers.
Virtual Private Network (VPN)
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) does a great job of providing overall security and privacy to your internet connection. A VPN hides your online identity by encrypting traffic and concealing your IP address. It limits various tracking practices and can make a huge difference regarding your anonymity. When you use a VPN for PC, your data travels through an encrypted tunnel, ensuring no third party can decipher it. Some modern VPNs also block malicious emails and flag all suspicious websites.
Conclusion
Threats to our online privacy and security are rising with each passing day. They are evolving continuously; therefore, we should be particular about taking all measures we can to boost our privacy and security online. The tools we have suggested are all tried and tested, proving their mettle in protecting online user privacy. It’s best to stay on guard and protect yourself to stay a step ahead.
