Your browsing is not as private as you think

Are you being watched right now? YES. While it is unlikely that someone is watching you through your computer’s camera right now, it is true that many parties are keeping tabs on every step you make online. People frequently make jokes about making a secret agreement to have a friend wipe their online history in the event of a tragic death. However, many others are already keeping an eye on your browsing.

Data Security

Who Can See What You are Doing Online?

There are quite a few eyes on your browsing activity.

WHO CAN SEE YOU WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Internet service providers (ISP)
  • CAN see websites you visit, your social media, who you email
  • CAN potentially view details regarding your health and finances
  • ISPs save your data for up to a year (or longer), depending on local legislation
Your (Wi-Fi) network’s administrator
  • CAN see the websites you visit, social media you use, videos you watch
  • CAN’T see what you fill in exactly on secured forms on HTTPS sites
  • Your school/employer usually falls into this category
Operating systems
  • CAN see websites you visit, social media, videos you watch
  • CAN see your location (when activated)
Websites
  • CAN see your online behavior on some websites
  • Tracking is done via cookies
  • CAN personalize ads and adjust them to fit your online behavior
Search engines
  • CAN see your search history
  • CAN see your search results
  • Google: has data from all platforms you use your Google account on
Apps
  • CAN see your location, account info, email address
  • Different for every app based on the permissions you give them
  • Tip: Pay particular attention to an app’s privacy statement
Governments
  • CAN ask your Internet Service Provider to hand over your browsing data
  • Track online behavior to fight (cyber) crime
  • Tend to limit online freedom and privacy in some way
Hackers
  • CAN possibly see your browser history, login data, financial details, etc.
  • Depends on the kind of attack

How can you protect your privacy?

The best way to browse without being seen is to hide your IP address with a Virtual Private Network, known as a VPN connection. A VPN encrypts your data and gives you a proxy IP address that can’t be traced back to you.

Your browsing behaviors and interests are valuable data that can be used to improve services and personalize ads, but it can also be used against you. It’s up to you to guard your privacy with the right knowledge and tools. While nothing is perfectly secure, you can make it difficult for people who are trying to get your private information.

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