Online Privacy: Why It Matters
Identity theft isn't a victimless crime. Every year 20,000 people fall
victim.
Charles Joseph
Internet Privacy Advocate ⋅ 2 min read
Have you ever considered the treasure trove of information you're leaving behind while surfing the internet? From sharing photos of your latest vacation to shopping for a pair of sneakers, your seemingly innocent online activities could be more revealing than you might think.
The internet, in all its glory, can sometimes act as a double-edged sword. Yes, it offers an unlimited universe of information, connection, and convenience at our fingertips. Yet, it also has the potential to expose your most intimate details to a world of unseen spectators unless properly guarded. This is where online privacy comes into play.
Why should you worry about online privacy? Well, here are a few important reasons - financial fraud, identity theft, harassment, and discrimination. Your online privacy is as critical as your privacy in the physical world, and the principles that apply to your personal life apply equally in the digital world.
In today's world, maintaining online privacy means protecting your personal information, your digital footprint, and your online identity. This information isn't just about your name, address, or social security number, but extends to the websites you visit, the products you buy, the posts you like or share, and even the time you spend online.
More than ever, understanding the significance of online privacy, how it can be compromised, and what measures can be taken to strengthen it's crucial. In the realm of cybersecurity, knowledge is power, and awareness is your first line of defense.
I aim to help you realize that you can reclaim control over your digital self with a few conscious steps, promoting a safer and more secure online experience.
We've established why online privacy is a concern for anyone and everyone using the internet. But what happens when that privacy is compromised? Let's shed some light on this.
First, the exposure of personal information can make you a prime target for identity theft. Unscrupulous individuals, armed with your personal data, could pose as you to carry out a host of illegal activities, from opening credit cards in your name to filing fraudulent tax returns. Such instances can cause not just financial distress but can also have long-lasting effects on your personal and professional reputation.
For a clearer understanding, take a look at the following identity theft chart that provides numbers on victims and their financial losses. It goes without saying that you wouldn't want to become a part of these statistics if it were preventable.
| Year | Number of Victims | Total Aggregate Loss | Median Loss |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 791,790 | $4.2 billion | $1,100 |
| 2021 | 847,376 | $6.9 billion | $1,400 |
| 2022 | 800,944 | $10.3 billion | $1,500 |
Source(s): FTC, Experian, NortonLifeLock
Secondly, the online data trail you leave can be a goldmine for marketers. While not inherently malicious, targeted advertising based on your personal preferences can feel intrusive.
Lastly, the lack of online privacy can lead to unauthorized surveillance. Anyone with the right tools and motivations can monitor your online activities, whether it's a cyberstalker, a nosy employer, or even a government entity.
Protecting your online privacy might seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be. Here are 5 best practices.
Sounds simple, right? But in the age of social media oversharing, it's a golden rule often overlooked. Limit the personal information you put out there. Remember, once it's online, it’s on the internet forever.
A robust password serves as a secure barricade for your online accounts. Make them complex, mix things up with symbols and numbers, and definitely don’t use the same password for all your accounts.
You can make it easy by using a password manager. The following are the most popular ones and are available as both a desktop application (e.g., Windows, macOS) or via your mobile device.
| Software | City and Country | Price Range (Year) |
|---|---|---|
| 1Password | Toronto, Canada | $2.99/month |
| Bitwarden | Santa Barbara, California, U.S. | Free |
Those pesky update notifications on your devices are more important than you think. They often contain security patches that fix vulnerabilities, making it harder for hackers to exploit your system.
Use comprehensive security software to defend against malware, phishing attacks, and other online threats.
| Software | City and Country | Price Range (Year) |
|---|---|---|
| Norton 360 Standard | Tempe, AZ, U.S. | $39.99/1st year for 3 devices |
| McAfee LiveSafe | San Jose, CA, U.S. |
$39.99/1st year for unlimited devices |
| Software | City and Country | Price Range (Year) |
| Norton 360 Standard for Mac | Tempe, AZ, U.S. | $39.99/1st year for 3 devices |
| McAfee for Mac | San Jose, CA, U.S. | $29.99/1st year for 1 device |
If you intend to purchase security software, e.g., antivirus, endpoint protection, endpoint detection and response, I'd strongly encourage you to avoid programs created in countries that censor speech. My personal viewpoint is that if a country is unwilling to guarantee the basic, fundamental rights of its citizens, its government wouldn't think twice about violating yours.
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can shield your online activities from prying eyes by encrypting your data and hiding your location.
Online privacy is fundamental to your security in the digital world. It’s about ensuring you control your personal information. By being proactive and implementing the strategies discussed here, you can navigate the internet more safely and with greater peace of mind.
1. What is Do Not Track (DNT)?
Do Not Track (DNT) is a feature you can activate in your web browser settings that sends a request to websites, asking them not to track your online activities. Keep in mind that compliance with this request is voluntary, so not all websites honor it.
2. How does private browsing or incognito mode help with online privacy?
Private browsing, also known as incognito mode, prevents your browser from storing your browsing history, cookies, or form data. It doesn't make you anonymous online as your Internet Service Provider (ISP) or the websites you visit can still track your activities.
Note that "incognito mode" is a term coined by Google Chrome. Other browsers refer to it as "private browsering" or "private mode."
3. What is two-factor authentication (2FA), and why should I use it?
Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts by requiring two types of identification before granting access. This often combines something you know (like a password) with something you have (like a verification code sent to your phone), making it harder for unauthorized users to access your accounts.
4. What are cookies, and why should I care about them?
Cookies are small files that websites store on your device to remember information about you, such as your login details or shopping cart items. While they can make your web experience more seamless, they can also be used by advertisers to track your browsing behavior across different websites.
5. Is it safe to use public Wi-Fi?
Public Wi-Fi networks often lack sufficient security measures, making it easier for cybercriminals to intercept your data. If you must use public Wi-Fi, it's best to use a VPN to encrypt your data and protect your online activities.
6. Can my smartphone compromise my online privacy?
Yes, smartphones can pose a risk to your online privacy. They often have access to sensitive information like your location, contacts, and photos. Therefore, it's important to regularly update your smartphone's software, only download apps from trusted sources, and check app permissions before installing.