In today’s technology-driven world, safeguarding your personal data is extremely important. Here are five steps that will help you limit the collection, sharing, and utilization of your personal data online:
1. Be cautious of oversharing. Having social media accounts with an excessive amount of your personal data makes identity theft easier. Information such as your high school, place of birth, or mother’s maiden name can assist criminals in changing your online banking passwords. Choose more challenging security questions and be careful about what you post online. You can also adjust the privacy settings of your profiles on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and others.
2. Use incognito mode or a private web browser. Using incognito mode can prevent search history, temporary internet files, and cookies from being saved. Another option is to use anonymous search engines such as StartPage or DuckDuckGo.
3. Limit app access to your personal data. When an account or app requests access to your personal data, consider whether the benefits outweigh the risks. Be cautious if the requested information is not essential for the service provided. Does the app truly need your social security number or location? Can you provide just the zip code?
4. You have the right to refuse cookies. Cookies allow websites to keep you logged in, track browsing activity, and target advertisements based on your interests. If you don’t want this, choose to continue browsing without accepting cookies or only accept those necessary for the site to function. Periodically clear cookies using the privacy and security settings of your web browser. Instructions are provided by Apple, Safari, Firefox, Google, and Microsoft.
5. Customize your privacy settings. Personalize the privacy and security settings for your apps and websites, limiting the sharing of information and determining who it is shared with. The National Cybersecurity Association has a helpful page called “Manage Your Privacy Settings” that includes links to dozens of popular services.
Secure your personal data online by being aware and taking appropriate precautions. Learn more about protecting your data at defendyourdata.wvu.edu.
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The source of the article is from the blog maestropasta.cz