Some argue that anonymity forms the very foundation the internet stands on, creating a world where free speech is unchallenged. However, with entities like big businesses and governments snooping on our online activities, your privacy can hardly be taken for granted.
Corporate giants like Amazon, Facebook, and Google gather a huge amount of consumer data to create individual profiles for targeted advertising.
Being anonymous online is of immense help to whistleblowers, a fact underlined by many privacy experts. That said, irrespective of what you are doing online, you should never feel apologetic about looking to be anonymous online.
Can you take complete control of your online privacy? It is possible to a certain degree. As long as you go online, you will give away certain details. However, there are ways to minimize tracking and enjoy more privacy and a safer experience.
Go For an Encrypted Messaging App
It’s wise to use a messaging app like Signal instead of your phone’s standard text messaging service. Signal offers end-to-end encryption in all its communications on its open-source protocol. Such encryption ensures that no one, not even Signal, can see your messages or calls. What’s more, Signal carries no ads or trackers either. If Signal does not seem like your cup of tea, you can also consider other options for more private communications.
Choose Encrypted Storage
Another aspect of being hooked to the world of Google is how we prefer to store all our files, photos, and documents, many of them sensitive, on Google Drive. This certainly isn’t a good choice when it comes to privacy. There are cloud storage platforms that offer the security of end-to-end encryption.
Consider Alternatives to Google
Google is one of the providers hungry for your data. It learns everything you search online, which may include information very personal to you. We, therefore, suggest that instead of using Google, opt for search engines like DuckDuckGo.
These don’t scoop up your personal information. They also do not share them with advertisers to create targeted ad campaigns. Instead, the service uses the information on what you search to create ads after all your search data is made anonymous. Similarly, IP addresses are hidden as well.
Choose a Secure Operating System
Your operating system forms the very foundation the edifice of your online anonymity stands on. Your data may still be logged if you use an operating system offered by a major tech company even after you use secure email servers, browsers, search engines, and other similar tools designed to protect your privacy.
Install a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
You can also get a Virtual Private Network to enhance your online privacy. A VPN encrypts all the data that travels between your device and the internet. Again, it also hides your IP address so that your location cannot be tracked so easily. Moreover, your browsing becomes much more private as all internet traffic gets encrypted.
Conclusion
While the internet came into being as a platform where one could search for information without any restraints or fear of repercussions, the reality is very different. Take the time to protect your digital identity today.