Internet Privacy

When it comes to privacy and accountability, people always demand the former for themselves and the latter for everyone else. ~ David Brin

Internet privacy is a pressing matter due to the increasing number of peeping toms on the Internet. There are a number of advertisers, a number of stalkers and hackers on the Internet waiting to violate our privacy over the Internet and getting unsolicited access to our protected, undisclosed information. Experts in this field say that Internet Privacy is a non-existent entity but here is an insight into the world of Internet privacy...

Who are the people who can violate my Internet privacy?

Firstly the large community of hackers that exist over the Internet can hack into your accounts and get unsolicited access to your personal information that can not just harm your privacy but can be a cause of social as well as financial concern. The advertisers lurking behind the virtual walls can track your Internet activity to send you customized advertisement offers as well. Many employers can also get access to your Internet activity while you are using your computers at the workplace. In case you are using an Internet café, the owner of the café can keep a tab of your Internet access as well. Your Internet service provider can get complete and detailed information about your internet activities however this is generally not a threat due to the existing legal structure that prohibits them from violating the privacy of their users.

How can the websites violate my privacy?

The websites can tag you with a simple technological element called 'cookie'. Once a website tags you with a cookie which gets saved with them and helps them to remember you the next time you visit the same site. Although most of the websites using these cookies are harmless, the problem starts when websites allow advertisers to have an access to this information that will reveal you entire Internet activity and help the advertisers to target you according to your interests.

Are there any organizations that help generate awareness and suggest ways to promote Internet privacy?

Yes, there exist several organizations that strongly believe in maintaining Internet privacy. Some of the prominent organizations amongst these are American Civil Liberties Union, Electronic Frontier foundation and Electronic Privacy Information Center.

What can I do to safeguard my Internet privacy?

Well as long as you are on the Internet you cannot stop the transmission of information for sure. However one thing that you can certainly do is - avoid browsing websites that are not reliable or seem fishy. Especially if you want to safeguard your privacy in terms of financial and social matters do not risk it by shopping on unreliable websites or signing up suspicious membership forms that require you to fill up your social security numbers, credit card details and other important information. You can also change your privacy settings in Internet options setting of your computer. You can use anti-spyware programs to eliminate spyware items and tracking cookies that threaten your Internet safety. Hence if you cannot stop sending out your information while you are browsing you can certainly choose the websites that you can trust your information with.

In an age where we boast about the benefits of technology and the way the world is getting closer and closer, there is no option but to bear the little disadvantages of this technology.