We are certainly living in unprecedented times. A second great economic depression, a global pandemic on a massive scale, and plenty of uncertainty – if one thing’s for certain, it is that 2021 is going to be even more challenging.
In a time where global, instantaneous communications are the norm, our data has become a commodity all on its own. Data brokers trade contact information, personal details, and social media information of millions of individuals on a daily basis.
It is because of this, that we need to take steps to keep ourselves protected and anonymous at all times. Data collected by these brokers is used to color our preferences, control the news that we receive, or even scam us.
While technology has brought all of this about, it is also possible for us to make use of these advancements to protect ourselves. From cryptocurrency to encrypted messaging apps, we now have the freedom to keep our data private and anonymous.
Let’s find out how:
1. Keep your social media activities social
There is no doubt that social media has made it possible for us to stay connected to one another on a much greater level than has ever been seen. However, social media has also unfortunately conditioned us to share our personal information on a much greater degree than ever before.
Going on a holiday with your significant other? There’s Instagram and Snapchat for all of that.
Bought the latest iPhone or just gotten a new car? Splash it all over Instagram.
Unhappy with recent political developments? Hey, why not talk about it all over Facebook or share the latest news on Whatsapp.
Besides the copious sharing of personal information, there’s also the fact that all of the aforementioned services are absolutely free.
With so much data available at the drop of a hat, it is frighteningly easy for just about anyone to gain access to highly personal information. And that includes hackers, scammers, and even stalkers.
This is why it’s especially important that social media be used for strictly social purposes only. Avoid inflammatory comments related to work, politics, or religion at all costs. After all, there have been plenty of examples where people have lost their jobs over a social media post.
You’ll never know who will be watching you on social media and what they can do with what they see.
2. Consider making the switch to cryptocurrency
Online shopping and cashless payment solutions have revolutionized the way we think about transactions. Thanks to sites such as Amazon and Lazada, you can buy just about anything you want with just a few mouse clicks.
However, handing over your personal payment information over the internet may not exactly be the most prudent cause of action. Hackers and scammers are all too eager to make use of your credit card information for their own nefarious purposes.
Fortunately, you can always consider making the switch to cryptocurrency to keep protecting your privacy. Cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin offer a degree of anonymity that occludes the identity of the sender and recipient of payments.
Altcoins such as Dash (DASH) or Monero (XMR) offer true anonymity thanks to the utilization of cryptography technology for a higher level of security. With plenty of eWallets and crypto exchanges to choose from, cryptocurrency payments are becoming easier than ever.
3. Use a secure messaging app
From sending text messages to a loved one or discussing work with the boss, messaging apps have become an integral part of our life. Unfortunately, our overdependence on these apps has exposed us to a number of security vulnerabilities.
The weak data encryption employed by these apps has made it exceptionally easy for hackers to gain access to our most private conversations.
Secure messaging apps such as Telegram and Signal have come about in response to the need for added encryption. Featuring a rare endorsement from Edward Snowden, Signal is one of the most popular secure messaging applications on the market.
Keeping your messages encrypted ensures that your conversations remain private and out of the hands of any scoundrels looking to steal your information.
Imagine if someone stole your data while you are betting on NBA odds in BetAmerica? You want to feel comfortable while browsing online through your favorite websites.
Data privacy should be everyone’s responsibility and is especially important in today’s day and age. By taking the appropriate steps, you can stay private and anonymous.
