Internet privacy is one of the biggest challenges in this new electronic age. It’s not just that someone can find out everything you’ve ever done or said, but that once that information is out there, it’s incredibly hard to get back. Whether it’s your contact details, social media updates or web browsing history, digital footprints are a goldmine for cybercriminals and can be used to steal your identity, stalk you online or spam your friends and family.
Even when people don’t realise it, their personal data is being shared with a variety of companies and organisations. This includes the websites they visit, social media platforms they use and search engines they rely on. The sheer volume of information that’s available online is a huge temptation for marketers, who use it to create targeted advertisements. And it’s the reason why personalised marketing is such a success, but also why many users of the internet feel their privacy is under threat.
Unfortunately, the majority of countries lack clear laws around data protection and many Internet services overshare their customer’s private information. It’s an issue that affects everyone but is particularly important for those in marginalised communities, who are more likely to be subjected to data profiling and surveillance. The good news is that you can take steps to improve your online security and keep your personal information as private as possible. Read on to learn more about why internet privacy matters and how you can protect your digital footprint.