How to Protect Your Digital Privacy

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The internet is an integral part of our lives, with adults in the UK spending an average of 4 hours and 20 minutes online every day. However, every click, like, and share now leaves a digital footprint. It’s important to take precautions to stop your personal information from falling into the wrong hands.

Thankfully, protecting your privacy doesn’t require you to be a tech wizard. Take these practical steps to enjoy the benefits of connectivity while safeguarding your data.

Recognise Common Threats

It helps to know what you’re up against. Cybercriminals use various tactics to steal valuable information:

  • Phishing uses messages that appear legitimate but aim to trick you into revealing data like passwords or banking details. This is the most common cyberattack, according to the UK government’s Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2024. You should scrutinise senders and links before taking any action.
  • Malware is malicious software that can infect your devices to access your information. Stick to downloading software from trusted sources and keep your antivirus program up to date.

Practice Smart Internet Habits

Besides recognising scams, there are several common-sense practices for safe browsing. Start with setting strong passwords for each of your accounts. A password manager can help you generate and store robust logins.

Most accounts allow two-factor authentication (2FA) for an extra layer of protection. This feature asks you for a second form of verification in addition to your password, such as a code sent to your phone or email.

Check the legitimacy of websites before entering personal details, too. Look for secure HTTPS connections, and be wary of services that want to collect lots of details about you.

Secure Your Connection Anywhere

Even with these habits, your data can still be vulnerable when it travels across the internet. Public Wi-Fi networks, in particular, can be goldmines for hackers. That’s where a virtual private network (VPN) comes in.

Understanding VPN’s meaning is simple: it’s a tool that encrypts your traffic by routing it through a secure server, making it almost impossible to spy on. Choose a trusted provider, install their app on your devices, and activate it whenever you head to the web.

Take Control of Your Privacy Settings

Many websites and digital services collect your data. You can limit this to only what’s necessary by tweaking your settings.

Adjust your browser to block third-party cookies and disable location tracking unless needed. Pay attention to the permissions you give to mobile apps, too. You can restrict them to what’s essential for them to function. Finally, review your profile settings on social media platforms and be mindful of oversharing.

Keep Your Finger on the Pulse

Following these tips can significantly reduce your risk online. However, security is an ongoing process, and new threats are constantly emerging. Stay informed and review your practices often to close any gaps.