We are experiencing a level of connection never seen before and technology is pushing the limits of privacy further every day. Facial recognition software and biometric identification devices are here to stay, but there are far greater intrusions in people’s privacy that we do not notice. Every new mobile app that tries to make our lives easier comes with a privacy issue, and many are only created as an excuse to amass personal data. Government and corporate surveillance is real and increasing, with liberties rapidly depleting.  Protecting your privacy both online and in real life should be a top priority to stay safe.

Understanding the risks

A wide variety of consequences are involved when your privacy has been compromised. Russian private investigators have identified many of these risks through field work, including identity theft, romance and investment scams, blackmail, assault, and even kidnapping and homicide. Victims are often first targeted using the tools the Internet provides, and the options are plenty.  Google Street View is used by thousands of criminals each day to conduct crimes and in the preparation of targeting victims.

Everyone is at risk

It might be possible that your privacy is being compromised without you even realizing it. Anytime you use an unsecured Wi-Fi network, a dating app or a social media network, criminals could be waiting.   If you use the internet, you can be a victim.

How to protect yourself

There are a variety of resources available to stay safe online and offline, but here are some specific ways you can protect your privacy and avoid being a victim.

• If possible, do not use social media of any kind. Focus on the real world, real life and real relationships.  If you can’t do that, be cautious with what you say on social networks and dating websites. Russian romance scammers use all the information their victims share to manipulate and deceive them. Avoid using your full name or revealing your full date of birth. Never reveal your social security number or bank account information. Share as least as possible to stay safe.
• Create strong passwords. Use a variety of passwords and make each one strong by mixing letters, numbers and symbols, as well as capitalization. Remember to change them at least once a year, as databases are routinely hacked.,
• Remote work has created a blurred line between work and home. However, try to keep things separate. Be careful when using video conferencing platforms, especially when your camera is on. Try to keep your workspace separate from the rest of your home, as you never really know who is watching.
• When you work using a public internet connection, avoid financial transactions or checking your bank accounts.
• Never use geo trackers. Most of the available apps are intended to make lives easier, but users do not question the security of using them. Private detectives in Russia say that using a location tracker allows online criminals to know where you are at a given moment and that is not a good idea. On your phone, turn off your location tracking at all times, unless you are using Maps or need directions.
• Use search engines that are serious about your privacy such as DuckDuckGo. This will allow you to surf the web without being monitored and recorded. In addition, update your internet browser settings to delete all cookies every time you close.

Overall, it is important to remember that your privacy can be compromised but there are still ways to protect yourself and loved ones. If you are not doing everything in your power to cover every end, your information becomes vulnerable. Being aware of your weaknesses will ensure you can improve your safety and protect your privacy.

C. Wright
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