There are only two kinds of companies: those that have been hacked, and those that will be.
—Robert Mueller, FBI director
Today, sharing personal information on a website feels like a leap of faith. Initially, the internet wasn’t built with security as a priority. It was originally designed as a distributed system, linking multiple networks without centralised structure to enforce security. The system relied on trust among its users and early pioneer David D Clark explained, “It’s not that we didn’t think about security. We knew there were untrustworthy people out there, and we thought we could exclude them.”
However, in today’s vastly interconnected digital world, this trust-based approach is no longer an option. Well, many online services continue to prioritise speed-to-market and cost savings over robust security measures, leaving users’ data vulnerable.
People around the world spend over 7 hours online every day. Whether that’s a good or bad thing is up for debate; but one fact is clear: the number keeps rising. While the internet and digital technologies have transformed our lives for the better, offering convenience, connectivity, and endless possibilities. They also come with their own set of risks.
Welcome to the world where technology and scammers are growing at the same pace.
Keeping all the broader thoughts aside, we know how an individual’s drive links sometimes become public entertainment. It’s almost like a new form of digital gossip.
The second someone rises to fame whether it’s for their talent, a viral moment, or just sheer luck, you can bet there’s a team of people armed with fake accounts and unparalleled enthusiasm ready to dive into their past. Old Facebook posts, random Google drive folders, they’ll dig it all up like digital archaeologists on a mission.
Speaking of knowing too much, let’s not forget about Meta.
Have you ever thought about how much Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp (all owned by Meta) know about you? They know where you are, who you talk to, what you like, and even what you are about to like next. They have got data about every click, every swipe, every comment and they use it to build a profile so detailed that it could predict your next purchase, your next vacation spot or even your next relationship status.
And it’s not just because you are scrolling through Facebook or Instagram. You’ve shared your location, your contacts and even what you had for brunch with social media! (thanks, Instagram stories) also with every new update people can even see what you have liked on Instagram. Nothing is private! You are practically a walking data point, and Meta is using all that to make money!
And then there’s Twitter. You’ve seen the memes, but the reality is Elon Musk didn’t buy Twitter just because he wanted to make it a fun playground for free speech! You know why! Information is power, with over 400 million active users, Twitter is a treasure trove of data.
It’s not just about controlling the narrative, understanding human behaviour and building a data empire! And that’s the kind of information that shapes markets, politics, even your daily decisions.
Stop Being the Perfect Target!
On this world Data Safety Day, Let’s rethink how we handle our data!
1. Don’t save passwords on your browser – Many browsers and apps have the convenient option to store your passwords, but if you lose your device, it gets stolen, or somebody else uses your workstation, they will have full access to any accounts you stored passwords for. To avoid this, you should disable automatic password storing and delete the passwords you’ve saved so far.
2. Stop oversharing online – Ask yourself, “Could this information be used against me?” if yes, then don’t share!
3. Strengthen your security – Use a strong, unique password and enable two factor authentication. It’s a small step that makes a huge difference.
4. Don’t allow every action required – Not everything needs to be allowed in life. The way you don’t allow people to interfere in your interest, don’t allow apps to have all kinds of access. There’s already much!
5. Use back up like a pro – Don’t rely solely on cloud storage for all your files, transfer all the important and sensitive documents to a specific hardware or pen drive. Cloud can crash, but your data doesn’t have to.
6. Avoid using public WiFi – That public and free Wi-Fi in the airport or restaurant doesn’t come without risks.
Most of the public Wi-Fi networks are unsecured. A hacker can easily take control of the network and tap into your connection. They can see what websites you visit, your accounts, and passwords, or install malware on your device to track your activity and steal your data, even when you are no longer using public Wi-Fi.
7. Update all your apps, tools, OS – Every app and tool you use, including your OS, is a piece of software that requires regular updates. These updates don’t just include the new and improved features but also vulnerability patches and security updates.
8. Don’t click on unfamiliar attachments or links – Checking and responding to emails has become a daily routine for many people. Since it’s one of the most popular communication channels, cybercriminals will often use it to get their hands on your data. To do it, they use so-called phishing links. Once you click this link, chances are that your device will get infected with malware.