How can you improve your personal privacy and security?
How do you keep your private life private? In the age of social media, it can seem almost impossible to hide your personal information. The Data Protection Act 2018, the UK’s incorporation of the EU’s GDPR, covers data protection and privacy. But a few clicks of a mouse or swipes on a smartphone can sometimes still find some of our details.
But it is possible to keep our personal information secure.
Here are some ways you can protect your privacy.
Why is security important?
You must protect your personal data both in real life and online. Scammers can do a lot of damage with some small details about your life. It can be easy for them to work out something like your bank details from your date of birth, where you were born, and your children’s names.
Similarly, you run the risk of potential burglars knowing when you aren’t home if your address gets into the wrong hands, as well as losing money and other personal belongings, this type of security breach could affect your safety.
So, it’s worth thinking about introducing safety measures and reducing the risk of your personal
information going where you don’t want it to go.
Online privacy
Many of us live our lives online. We use the internet for everything from work to socialising with friends. We must be careful about what we share, though.
If you’re on holiday, it’s worth leaving the uploads to social media until you’re home. Similarly, if you’ve just bought an expensive car, it can be better to keep that detail offline. This might not sound fun, but plenty of people look for social media accounts that are easy to access.
Check your social media privacy setting before sharing anything that could alert criminals. Block users you don’t know and check who the audience is for everything you post.
Online security
Take the time to add two-step authentication to your important accounts and update passwords regularly. Also, make sure these passwords aren’t easily located.
By adding security measures, you’re less likely to lose anything or have data stolen if your smartphone or tablet falls into the wrong hands. One security measure that could protect you is using a VPN with Threat protection. This can alert you of any websites that could make your device less secure.
Home privacy
Like online privacy, home privacy is all about not revealing where you are and restricting access to your property.
Some steps you can take to maintain privacy include keeping windows and internal doors closed – especially when you’re not home.
Also, closing curtains will ensure no one can see in – this is important as the darkness arrives earlier in the day during the winter months. Think about adding tall fences to prevent others from seeing into your home too.
Home security
Adding an alarm system to your property or tech that allows you to see who’s at your door can help secure your home. Motion detectors are discreet and will not affect your home's curb appeal.
Alarms and cameras act as deterrents for would-be burglars and provide evidence if anyone tries to get into your property. Not only are they able to help you secure your home and valuables, home security systems can also increase the value of your home and decrease your home insurance premium!
