First, what is digital privacy?

Defining the concept of “privacy” is far from an easy task, given the numerous interpretations that can be associated with the word. However, in the digital context, online privacy can be understood as the ability of a person to control the exposure and availability of personal information about themselves or even a stranger through websites and social networks.

Why should we care about online privacy?

It’s simple. Only by controlling what we share can we prevent data from ending up in places where it doesn’t belong, and this usually happens through improper exposure of sensitive personal data. Considering that we live in a digital age where being connected is increasingly seen as a matter of necessity, it is imperative to pay attention to online security. Only then is it possible to enjoy, without fear, all the incredible resources that the internet offers.

Whether for telecommuting, online shopping, education platforms or leisure, we use the internet constantly through the most diverse networks and social platforms. Now, the big problem with online privacy starts right here: we often access networks that are not protected and this can lead to very unpleasant situations.

Therefore, several tips can (and should!) be adopted to maintain the integrity of your data while avoiding possible online attacks.

Tips to ensure your online protection:

  1. Use an antivirus on your electronic devices – A good antivirus is fast at detecting viruses and virtual threats. This is the only way to protect and keep all your information safe. In the process of choosing the ideal antivirus, it is necessary to take into account that it should be able to create a security barrier for your devices in all aspects, i.e. against system, data, web and network threats.
  2. Centre your navigation on already recognized sites and platforms – Before accessing a site or online platform that you do not know, it is important to seek information about its reputation. Through a quick search, it is possible to find reviews from other users and thus check how reliable that company is, how it works and if what the platform says matches reality.
  3. Use secure passwords – Avoid using passwords that contain sensitive data such as birthdays, names of relatives, and names of pets, among others. It is also advisable to change passwords periodically, particularly email and social network passwords – your password can be cracked in various ways: through keyloggers, security holes in online services, attacks on servers and so on. Keep in mind that the more complex the password, the more secure it is.
  4. Use two-factor authentication – Ensure secure login and use of platforms with two-step verification whenever possible. The first form of authentication, in general, is your password. The second can be anything, depending on the service. Most commonly, it is an SMS or a code that is sent to an email. Two-factor authentication is not a foolproof method, it is an excellent barrier to prevent unwanted intrusion into your online accounts.
  5. Watch out for emails – Often emails are corrupted and fake emails end up falling into your inbox. It is very common for them to be about subjects such as jobs, money, and tracking orders. Do not click on links or attachments sent by unknown email addresses.
  6. Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks – Lured by the possibility of accessing online services away from home and for free, many users end up connecting to open Wi-Fi networks. However, such an action hides a risk: criminals can create fake public networks to steal user data. From the login, hackers can track all websites visited and even steal passwords and other personal information provided.

Social Media – Care to be taken

When making posts on social networks avoid:

  • Disclose information about the places you go – where possible restrict location information to your friends only.
  • Disclose information that may reveal your financial situation – avoid disclosing material assets that you have in your possession or that are in the possession of your family.
  • Disclose pictures of relatives or friends without their permission.
  • Among others.

Whenever possible take advantage of the privacy policies of each social network – take the time to configure what data your contacts can access. Here are the privacy policies of some of the most widely used social networks in the world:

It is the responsibility of each of us to manage and secure your online reputation.

All data and information posted or completed on any digital platform require the utmost attention. Do not share sensitive information and confirm that the platforms you use are secure.