Stop Leaking Your Personal Data Online - Stop Sharing Your Secrets with Big Tech and the Government
Introduction
Personal data is increasingly commodified by big tech companies and government entities, often without the user's knowledge or consent. Many daily online activities leave a trail of sensitive data that can be collected, tracked, and used. Reclaiming digital privacy requires adopting tools and habits that reduce data exposure, prevent tracking, and anonymize online activity.
These are some basic-level suggestions on things you can do to protect yourself.
Understanding How Data is Collected Online
The Reality of Data Collection
Companies and governments collect user data through browsers, social media, mobile apps, internet service providers (ISPs), and even smart devices. This data is used for profiling, targeted advertising, and surveillance.
Data Trails Left by Everyday Activities
Simple actions like searching on Google, logging into social media, shopping online, or using GPS navigation contribute to a comprehensive digital profile that is difficult to control once it's in the hands of data collectors.
Principles of Online Privacy and Anonymity
Minimizing Digital Footprints
The key to privacy is minimizing one's digital footprint by reducing the amount of personal information shared online. Privacy-focused tools, mindful data-sharing practices, and alternative communication channels are essential.
Balancing Convenience with Privacy
Recognize the trade-offs between convenience and privacy. While some privacy tools require changing daily habits, the benefits outweigh the learning curve and inconveniences.
Tools and Tactics for Anonymizing Online Activity
Secure Browsing Practices
Use secure browsers like Brave or Firefox with privacy settings enabled. Add browser extensions like uBlock Origin or Privacy Badger to block ads, cookies, and tracking scripts.
Set Search Engines to Private Options
Switch to private search engines like DuckDuckGo, which don’t track searches or create user profiles. This simple change reduces data collection during daily searches.
Managing Social Media and Online Accounts
Audit and Reduce Social Media Usage
Review social media privacy settings, limit public sharing, and delete old or unused accounts. Use social media mindfully and reduce overall usage.
Alias Accounts and Emails for Non-Essential Signups
Use alias emails (temporary email addresses or pseudonyms) for non-critical signups to limit data linked to the real identity.
Practical Device Privacy Settings
Control App Permissions on Smartphones
Smartphone apps often ask for unnecessary permissions. Periodically review app settings and turn off permissions like location, camera, and microphone access when not needed.
Disable Tracking Features and Ad Personalization
Disable tracking and personalized ads on iOS and Android devices to reduce the data collected for advertising purposes.
Simple Steps for Better Password Security
Adopt a Password Manager
Use a password manager like Bitwarden or 1Password to create and store strong, unique passwords for all online accounts. This reduces the risk of account breaches and ensures secure access.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Enable 2FA for important accounts (e.g., email, bank accounts, social media) to add an extra layer of security, reducing the risk of unauthorized access, BUT only do this on a phone or computer that is already known as yours. 2FA will link the device with your account, and to other devices that have logged in with that account.
Reduce Data Leaks in Everyday Internet Use
Regularly Clear Browsing Data and Cookies
Regularly clear browsing data, cookies, and cache to reduce tracking. Automate this process on browsers for convenience.
Unsubscribe from Unnecessary Newsletters and Alerts
Unsubscribe from newsletters and promotional emails that are no longer needed. This reduces email clutter and exposure to marketing tracking.
Practice Safe Online Shopping and Payments
Use Privacy-Focused Payment Methods
When shopping online, use privacy-oriented payment options like PayPal or virtual credit cards to prevent merchants from storing actual card details.
Shop Only on Secure Websites
Ensure that sites use HTTPS, avoid using debit cards online, and stick to reputable vendors to keep both data and money secure.
Balance Privacy with Convenience
Find a Balance that Works for You
Not everyone can go completely off-grid. Find privacy steps that suit your lifestyle without sacrificing too much convenience. Small changes can make a big impact.
Conclusion: Small Steps Lead to Big Changes
Reducing a digital footprint is a gradual process. Making small, realistic changes—like adjusting privacy settings, using strong passwords, and limiting data sharing—can significantly enhance privacy and reduce the risks of data exposure.