Keeping your online communications private

In an era dominated by digital interactions, protecting your privacy has become a top priority for many. Whether it’s casual chats or more sensitive transactions, securing your online activity is crucial. However, many people remain unaware of the intricacies of online privacy, leaving them vulnerable to threats.

In this article, I explore why online privacy matters and what it actually means to be protected in today’s digital landscape. With increased awareness and the ability to recognize the threats that exist, it’s easier to take actionable steps to shield your online presence.

Growing importance of online privacy

As technology continues to advance, the risks associated with your digital presence also grow. With more of our lives taking place online, personal data has become a valuable commodity. From remote work and financial transactions to health monitoring and beyond, taking precautions to protect your online identity is no longer a question.

While corporations use our data to target ads and analyze trends, hackers employ sophisticated cyber threats to target the wealth of information known as personal data. In 2024 alone, the New York Times estimated between 20 and 25 major ransomware attacks daily.

When your data is available for misuse, it acts as an invitation for malicious intent. You can expect identity theft, fraud, targeted surveillance, and everything in between, regardless of whether you’re a casual user or a high-profile individual. Amazon now tracks a mind-boggling one billion cyber threats per day. With more breaches, leaks, and attacks making the headlines, the importance of keeping your data safe in a connected world is clear.

Decoding online privacy: what it is and isn’t

Online privacy can sound abstract and is often misunderstood. Many people mistakenly assume that being private online is about securing passwords or keeping emails under control. While these steps are crucial, digital privacy goes beyond simply keeping personal details in check or avoiding the occasional scam.

True privacy starts from understanding how data flows online, the digital traces we leave behind, and who has access to it. Practically speaking, online privacy encompasses a broad range of utilities and tools, such as virtual private networks, password managers, data encryption software, and beyond. These practices are specifically designed to protect your personal data in the online world.

Main threats to your digital privacy

Online privacy is under constant attack, with risks that come in many forms. What you’re up against are silent threats creeping up on your data, and more often than not, they come unnoticed. In this section, I’m breaking down the different categories of dangers, from invasive data tracking to cybercrime, and how each poses a risk to your digital privacy.

• Data collection and tracking. Companies track your behavior across websites, apps, and devices for advertising and marketing purposes. Often, this data is collected without clear consent, enabling companies to build detailed profiles of your likes, preferences, and psychological biases. This can then be sold to third parties, resulting in targeted ad bombardment, playing on your habits, behaviors, and even weaknesses.
• Hacking and cyberattacks. Cybercriminals target individuals and organizations to steal personal data, including login credentials, financial details, and personal communication. Phishing attacks, malware, and ransomware are all common cybersecurity threats that can compromise your online security. If it happens, the consequences are not always easy to fix. More than that, it can affect your life offline in a very tangible way. Some severe cases include heavy financial loss, private information exposure, and even further exploitation like blackmail.
• Unsafe public Wi-Fi. Using public Wi-Fi networks exposes personal privacy to risks like data interception. These networks are often not encrypted, making it easier for cybercriminals to intercept your sensitive data, such as passwords, financial information, and private communications. Hackers can set up "Man-in-the-Middle" attacks, when they secretly monitor or even alter the data transmitted between a device and the network. Using a reliable VPN can help protect against such attacks, but regardless, it’s essential to be extra cautious when handling sensitive data on public Wi-Fi.
• Social engineering. Hackers often rely on manipulating individuals to disclose sensitive information. The manipulation can be done through deceptive phone calls, fake links, or manipulative social media tactics. Social engineering often involves a pretext designed to act urgently and on emotion. For example, you may receive a phone call from a so-called authority, prompting you to transfer funds urgently. The given reason may be to save your relative from a legal problem or a health accident, which can make you emotional and, therefore, vulnerable to quick decisions.
• Surveillance and government monitoring.Governments and intelligence agencies may engage in the surveillance of online activities. Whether it’s for national security purposes or broader control over the internet's usage, this can involve monitoring communications, tracking movements, or accessing private data through legal or illegal means. Sometimes, such surveillance is justified to prevent a crime or gather incriminating evidence about an actual offender. On the other hand, there is a thin line that can be taken advantage of and manipulated in favor of other interests. Regardless, the reality is that you can almost never tell you’re being watched while online.

Ways to keep your online communications private

Taking control of your privacy is easier than you might think, but it requires a proactive approach. Here, I’ll discuss practical steps you can take to protect your data – whether it’s using strong passwords, encrypting messages, or browsing anonymously. Learn how to implement these strategies and enhance your online security.

1. Be vigilant

First and foremost, be mindful of the personal information you share on the internet, especially on social media platforms and online accounts. Review your privacy settings and opt for stricter controls on who can access your data. That said, even the most vigilant users who look after their digital privacy get an occasional phishing link or a scam. Since such attempts are always there, it’s important to look at any unrecognized communications critically before acting.

2. Protect your devices with strong passwords and two-factor authentication

A strong, unique password for each separate account coupled with two-factor authentication (2FA) is well-known for enhancing digital protection. Passwords are harder to crack when they include a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters. You can also use a password manager to securely store and generate complex passwords, avoiding reusing them across accounts. Enabling 2FA adds another layer of defense by requiring identity verification through a text, an authentication app, or a hardware token. If you can, avoid SMS for 2FA on sensitive accounts, as they’re more vulnerable to attacks.

3. Use secure messaging apps

Many communication platforms offer end-to-end encryption, ensuring only the intended recipient can read your messages. Messaging apps like WhatsApp, Signal, or Telegram and secure email providers will give you strong encryption. With your messages encrypted, you can have the peace of mind that no one sees your private communication apart from the person it’s meant for.

4. Encrypt your internet traffic with a VPN

Utilize tools like VPN (virtual private network) to hide your IP address and encrypt your internet connection. By routing your internet traffic through a secure server, a VPN masks your online identity, making it difficult for third parties (hackers, advertisers, or even your internet service provider) to track your activity or monitor your data. VPNs also let you bypass geo-restrictions to access content from anywhere and enhance privacy when using public Wi-Fi, as they protect sensitive information from being intercepted.

The best VPN services will have strong encryption, no-logs policies to properly maintain your privacy, and additional security features to further enhance your online protection. With so many VPNs available, it can be hard to identify the truly reliable ones. Below, I share my choices of tried and tested VPNs that I use and rely on daily.

• NordVPN is a top-rated VPN service known for its strict no-logs policy, powerful security features, and user-friendly interface. It offers robust AES-256 encryption and a large network of servers across the globe, ensuring fast and secure connections. NordVPN also includes features like Double VPN for added privacy, CyberSec feature for blocking ads and malware, and an automatic kill switch for uninterrupted protection. Compared to other VPNs, NordVPN has become my number-one pick. I find it the overall best for all the great things I’m looking for in a VPN: excellent performance, reliability, and commitment to user privacy.
  

• Surfshark is another highly rated VPN known for its security functions and ease of use. It’s also an affordable option, considering it’s packed with useful features. It offers strong encryption, a no-logs policy, and the ability to connect unlimited devices simultaneously with just one subscription. Surfshark includes features like CleanWeb to block ads and malware and a kill switch as a safety net. It also incorporates multi-hop, which routes your connection through multiple servers for extra privacy. With high-speed performance, reliable security, and a competitive price, Surfshark is easily one of the top VPNs out there, offering incredible value for money.

• Proton VPN is another premium VPN service known for its strong emphasis on privacy and security. Backed by the creators of Proton Mail, it’s a respectable VPN with a no-logs policy, strong AES-256 encryption, and a kill switch. Proton VPN’s Secure Core feature routes your traffic through privacy-friendly countries for extra protection. It employs DNS leak protection and has Tor over VPN for anonymous browsing. With its transparent approach, clear commitment to privacy, and top-tier performance, Proton VPN is one of the best picks for those prioritizing security, anonymity, and friendly price tags.

5. Regularly check for software updates

Keeping your operating systems, browsers, and apps updated means benefitting from the latest security patches. These updates often fix vulnerabilities that attract unauthorized access to personal data or devices. Regular updates help protect you from new threats, as cybercriminals constantly target systems with known weaknesses. Additionally, updates often improve privacy features to better safeguard your private information. Enabling automatic updates is a simple and effective way to stay protected without needing to do anything manually.

More privacy tools for secure online activity

Privacy-focused browsers

Browsers that prioritize privacy and anonymity block trackers and ads, preventing or at least limiting data collection. For example, Brave browser blocks ads and trackers by default, while Firefox Focus automatically erases browsing history and trackers after each session. Tor browser ensures maximum privacy by routing traffic through multiple encrypted layers to hide users' IP addresses. Other browsers like LibreWolf and DuckDuckGo, emphasize privacy with secure browsing and private search features, addressing growing concerns over online tracking and data security.

Password managers

A password manager is a security tool that helps you store and organize your passwords so you don't have to remember or manually enter them for each of your accounts. It uses strong encryption to protect your sensitive data and often includes features like password generation, autofill, and cross-device syncing. This makes it easier to maintain complex and unique passwords for each of your many online sign-ins. Here are some popular choices you can’t go wrong with when choosing a reliable password manager:

• NordPass is a trusted password manager that securely stores your passwords and sensitive information, making online security effortless
• 1Password is highly praised for its robust security, user-friendly design, and advanced features like Travel Mode and secure storage for sensitive data
• Bitwarden is an open-source, highly affordable password manager that offers end-to-end encryption and a transparent, secure platform
• LastPass is known for its ease of use, secure encryption, and comprehensive features, including a password generator, secure vault, and cross-device syncing
• Keeper is popular for its reliable performance, offering powerful security features like AES-256 encryption, breach monitoring, and protected file storage

Data encryption tools

Data encryption tools are software systems that protect sensitive data by converting it into unreadable code, ensuring that only authorized users can access or decrypt it. Here are some of the most recognized and popular tools:

• BitLocker is a built-in Windows encryption tool that protects data by encrypting entire drives
• FileVault is a macOS built-in disk tool that encrypts all data on the drive
• Cryptomator is a tool specifically designed for encrypting files stored in cloud storage services like Dropbox and Google Drive
• VeraCrypt is a powerful open-source disk encryption software used to create encrypted volumes or full disk encryption
• AxCrypt is a user-friendly encryption tool for individual files or folders, offering AES-128/256 encryption

Privacy tools for social media

• Privacy Badger is a browser extension from the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) that automatically blocks tracking cookies and scripts on social media sites for more privacy
• Ghostery is a privacy-focused browser extension that blocks trackers and ads on social media sites, improving privacy and page load speeds
• ClearURLs is a browser extension that removes tracking parameters from URLs, ensuring that links shared on social media don't accidentally expose user activity to third parties
• Jumbo Privacy is an app that helps users manage privacy settings across multiple platforms, including Facebook, X, and Instagram, giving more control over what’s shared and who sees it
• Ecosia is a privacy-focused search engine that doesn’t track or create a profile of its users, offering a more private alternative to search engines linked to social media platforms

Online privacy: the legal side

Laws designed to protect your privacy are evolving, but do they go far enough? The legal landscape surrounding online privacy is complex and varies by country. Luckily, there have been significant strides in legislation aimed at protecting online privacy. Key privacy regulations now impact both businesses and consumers in the digital space.

GDPR and CCPA

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) are privacy laws designed to protect personal data. GDPR is enforced across the European Union and mandates organizations to obtain explicit consent from users before processing their data. It gives users rights like access, rectification, and deletion of personal data.

Similarly, the CCPA applies to California residents, giving users the right to know what personal information is being collected. Individuals can request its deletion and opt out of data sales. Both laws bind businesses to strict compliance standards, ensuring transparency and accountability. This empowers users to have more control over their data, fostering greater privacy and trust.

User rights under privacy laws

Privacy regulations like the GDPR and CCPA enhance user control by granting rights to access, correct, delete, and limit the use of personal data. These regulations demand greater transparency from companies, requiring them to disclose data practices and obtain user consent. As a result, this is transforming digital privacy standards and changing the culture of the digital landscape. This cultivation encourages prioritizing data protection and giving individuals more power over their personal information.

Key takeaways

The digital world can be overwhelming, but being vigilant and taking steps to protect your privacy is essential. From understanding the risks of using privacy tools and being aware of legal protections, making sure your online communications stay private is crucial. As you navigate through today’s digital landscape, secure your passwords, encrypt your data, and consider using a reliable VPN to shield your online presence.

FAQ

How can I keep my online communications private?

To keep your online communications private, use encrypted messaging apps (like Signal or WhatsApp), enable two-factor authentication, and avoid using public Wi-Fi. You can also use strong and unique passwords and regularly update your software and security settings. For advanced privacy, consider using a VPN to hide your internet traffic and even your physical location at the time of use.

Why is online privacy important for businesses?

Online privacy is important for businesses because it protects sensitive data, such as customer information, trade secrets, and financial details. Ensured privacy builds trust with customers, prevents data leaks, and follows regulation compliance like CCPA and GDPR. It also minimizes the risk of financial and reputational damage, as well as legal consequences from mishandling personal data.

How does encryption protect my online communications?

Encryption protects your online communications by converting your messages into unreadable text that can only be decrypted by someone with the correct key. This ensures that even if the data is intercepted by hackers or unauthorized persons, they cannot access or see the content, keeping your communications private and secure.

What are the risks of using public Wi-Fi for private communication?

The risks of using public Wi-Fi for private communication include data interception, where hackers can fetch your messages, passwords, or personal information. Public networks often lack adequate security, making it easy for attackers to perform Man-in-the-Middle attacks or infect your device with malware. It's safest to avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities or use a VPN for added protection.

How can I report a data breach?

To report a data breach, contact the organization that experienced or allowed the data breach immediately and follow its procedures for reporting. You should also notify relevant authorities, such as data protection agencies, such as the Federal Trade Commission in the US. If you suspect that your data has become vulnerable, immediately change your passwords and report your suspicions to companies you hold your accounts with.