Technology has almost completely converted our world today. Bank statements, receipts, bills, and almost everything else you can name is now online and paperless. While there are a great deal of benefits that come with the influx of technology, there are also dangers associated with the misuse and lack of privacy with your online information. Privacy is a rare commodity now-a-days with interactive websites like social media requesting more and more of your personal information. Most online users are computer literate but not as tech-savy as you would think. It is easy to navigate from your home screen to the internet and execute basic commands on your personal computer, but what about your security software, spyware, firewalls, and your mainframe’s wireless network?
Because we like to give you a helping hand when it comes to complex technological issues, our friends at Tech Land have helped us compile a list of the best ways to govern your personal online information.
Don’t put EVERYTHING in your Social Media Profile
Be advised that the more information you share via social media, the more accessible it is for others to get a hold of it. Yes, there is some information that can link you to others with the same information like your high school buddies for example, but other information like your birthday and where you currently work are easily used against you. If you do, however, want to share this information to only the people you really know, then make your online profile private.
Be Cautious of Sharing your Social Security Number – even the last four digits
Your social security number is one of the most critical factors that determine your identity. Usually your bank, credit bureau, or your employer will ask for all ten digits, but preferably the last four. You should understand what your social security number is: the first three digits are determined by where your parents applied for your SSN. The middle two digits are a group number, which is the number given to everyone in that geographical area at that certain time. This would be a breeze for an identity thief who is skilled in research. So if someone like that acquires the last four digits of your SSN, then can essentially steal your identity.
Turn on Private Browsing
Most companies, especially advertisers want to know what websites you visit the most in order to track your browsing and spending habits. Your internet provider gives you the option to privately surf the web. The best part about private browsing is that after you close the internet window your cookies, internet files, and history are all deleted. If you are serious about your privacy and governing your online information, then you should definitely consider this.
Lie When Setting up Password Security Questions
When you log into a website that contains even the slightest bit of your personal information, you are often asked identity authentication questions like “In what city were you born?,” “What high school did you attend?,” and the list goes on. I know this may sound crazy, but you need to be aware that facts about you and your history are floating around on the internet. If someone really wanted to access this information, it’s just a google search away. I’m not advising you make up some far away land that you know you’ll forget as soon as you create it, but something slightly off from the truth.
Think of GeekTek as your personal hub for all things IT based. Although they are dedicated to servicing all of your technological needs, you must also take the necessary precautions in protecting your online information. Contact us for more information on governing your online information and using the internet to your advantage.
Photo Credit: Vodafone Innovation Park Labs via photopin (license)