The internet is a wonderful resource to gain access to a myriad of information. There are hundreds of millions of active websites on nearly every topic under the sun. No matter what you want to research, learn about or see, the internet has you covered.
However, all of this access and convenience comes with a price, and in many cases, that is your privacy. With many companies, platforms, and websites collecting and potentially sharing your data, it is common to feel a little uneasy about the whole thing.
Thankfully, there are a few ways that you can still get the most out of the internet without putting your privacy or security at risk. Without any further ado, let’s look at some of the best ways to protect your privacy when browsing the internet.
Use a VPN
One of the best ways to make sure you are browsing the internet securely is by using a VPN (virtual private network). A VPN essentially uses a public connection to make a private network that allows for anonymity during internet browsing. It will change your IP and protect all of your browsing habits and activity from anybody.
There are several VPN providers with millions of users from all over the world. With so many providers, finding the right one isn’t always easy. Be sure to check out reviews and guides (like this SurfShark review) to learn more about your available options. After some research, you should be able to find one that works for your needs and is also in your price range.
Utilize Strong Passwords
Another way to ensure your internet usage is private and secure is to use strong passwords. While some people or companies might want to simply know how you browse and what you are searching for, others may actually want your private information. Many of our accounts (from online shopping platforms to social media sites) will include a lot of personal information like our name, address, email address, and other critical details.
In order to protect these accounts from potential hackers or data thieves, make sure your password is strong. It should be long, made up of letters, numbers and symbols and not be easy to guess or predict.
You should also have multiple passwords for the different accounts that you use. By using a strong password and making sure to change it up every few months to a year, you are making it incredibly hard for anyone to access any of your accounts.
Also, going forward, be careful where you post your personal information, as you never know who may eventually come across it. Private information should be kept private, especially online.
Review Your Permissions
Whether you are browsing the internet on your smartphone or the computer, you should look to review your permissions. Many apps and browser extensions will want you to give them access to things like your camera, photos, location, or microphone. Sure, some actually need these types of permissions to operate, but others want the information to sell to the marketers.
It is a good idea to look into the permissions you have given when it comes to the apps you download and the extensions you use. If you notice you are giving permissions you’re not comfortable with, it’s a good idea to either turn them off, or delete the app/extension entirely. In addition to reviewing your permissions and knowing what is being collected or tracked, be sure to only download extensions and apps that you actually need.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the tips in this article will be able to help you maintain your online privacy and browse safely and securely.
