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Showing posts with label Online Privacy. Show all posts
Privacy
Data Brokers Data collection Data Mining Data Privacy Data Removal data security Online Privacy Privacy

How Data Removal Services Protect Your Online Privacy from Brokers

 

Data removal services play a crucial role in safeguarding online privacy by helping individuals remove their personal information from data brokers and people-finding websites. Every time users browse the internet, enter personal details on websites, or use search engines, they leave behind a digital footprint. This data is often collected by aggregators and sold to third parties, including marketing firms, advertisers, and even organizations with malicious intent. With data collection becoming a billion-dollar industry, the need for effective data removal services has never been more urgent. 

Many people are unaware of how much information is available about them online. A simple Google search may reveal social media profiles, public records, and forum posts, but this is just the surface. Data brokers go even further, gathering information from browsing history, purchase records, loyalty programs, and public documents such as birth and marriage certificates. This data is then packaged and sold to interested buyers, creating a detailed digital profile of individuals without their explicit consent. 

Data removal services work by identifying where a person’s data is stored, sending removal requests to brokers, and ensuring that information is deleted from their records. These services automate the process, saving users the time and effort required to manually request data removal from hundreds of sources. Some of the most well-known data removal services include Incogni, Aura, Kanary, and DeleteMe. While each service may have a slightly different approach, they generally follow a similar process. Users provide their personal details, such as name, email, and address, to the data removal service. 

The service then scans databases of data brokers and people-finder sites to locate where personal information is being stored. Automated removal requests are sent to these brokers, requesting the deletion of personal data. While some brokers comply with these requests quickly, others may take longer or resist removal efforts. A reliable data removal service provides transparency about the process and expected timelines, ensuring users understand how their information is being handled. Data brokers profit immensely from selling personal data, with the industry estimated to be worth over $400 billion. 

Major players like Experian, Equifax, and Acxiom collect a wide range of information, including addresses, birth dates, family status, hobbies, occupations, and even social security numbers. People-finding services, such as BeenVerified and Truthfinder, operate similarly by aggregating publicly available data and making it easily accessible for a fee. Unfortunately, this information can also fall into the hands of bad actors who use it for identity theft, fraud, or online stalking. 

For individuals concerned about privacy, data removal services offer a proactive way to reclaim control over personal information. Journalists, victims of stalking or abuse, and professionals in sensitive industries particularly benefit from these services. However, in an age where data collection is a persistent and lucrative business, staying vigilant and using trusted privacy tools is essential for maintaining online anonymity.
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Online Privacy
Cyber Security Dark Web Deep Web Financial Scam Online Privacy

Understanding Dark Web Data Risks and Protecting Your Information

 

Are cybercriminals trafficking your private data on the Dark Web? This article provides a comprehensive overview of how data transfers on the Dark Web can impact your privacy and security.

The Dark Web is often portrayed as a mysterious, inaccessible corner of the internet. However, the internet is far more expansive than what most users access daily. The surface web, commonly known as the World Wide Web, represents only about 10% of the internet. The remaining portion primarily consists of the Deep Web, which contains content not indexed by standard search engines due to privacy and security measures.

The Dark Web vs. the Deep Web

Many people unknowingly access the Deep Web every day. This includes password-protected sites like email accounts, social media platforms, banking systems, corporate intranets, and databases for medical and legal records. These platforms are secured to protect sensitive information and are distinct from the Dark Web.

The Dark Web is a specialized segment of the Deep Web. It operates on encrypted networks known as "darknets," accessible only through specific software such as Tor. These networks use multi-layered encryption to conceal users' identities and locations, enabling anonymous communication and data sharing. This anonymity, combined with the untraceability of cryptocurrencies, fosters an environment conducive to illegal activities, including financial fraud and other cybercrimes.

Dark web scanners can help you determine if your credentials are compromised. Services like Keeper's free dark web scan allow users to input their email addresses. The tool then searches a database of billions of compromised login credentials for any matches, alerting users if their data has been exposed.

Steps to Protect Your Data from Dark Web Exposure

Digital identity protection tools offer more than just breach notifications. These tools provide actionable security prompts, such as "change your password" or "enable two-factor authentication." Following these steps can significantly reduce the risk of account takeovers and prevent cybercriminals from creating fraudulent accounts using your personal information.

However, completely removing your data from the Dark Web is not feasible. While laws like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) grant "the right to be forgotten" on the Deep Web and surface web, enforcing this on the Dark Web remains challenging.

Enhancing Your Cybersecurity Measures

To safeguard against Dark Web threats, consider the following measures:

  • Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Avoid reusing passwords across multiple platforms.
  • Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Adds an extra layer of security to your accounts.
  • Regularly Monitor Accounts: Frequently check for suspicious activities in your financial and personal accounts.
  • Stay Informed: Keep up with cybersecurity best practices and emerging threats.

By taking proactive steps, you can mitigate the risks associated with data exposure on the Dark Web and better protect your digital identity.

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Social Media
Account security Cyber Security Cyber Security and Privacy Data Privacy Digital Footprint Online Privacy Social Media

Practical Tips to Avoid Oversharing and Protect Your Online Privacy

 

In today’s digital age, the line between public and private life often blurs. Social media enables us to share moments, connect, and express ourselves. However, oversharing online—whether through impulsive posts or lax privacy settings—can pose serious risks to your security, privacy, and relationships. 

Oversharing involves sharing excessive personal information, such as travel plans, daily routines, or even seemingly harmless details like pet names or childhood memories. Cybercriminals can exploit this information to answer security questions, track your movements, or even plan crimes like burglary. 

Additionally, posts assumed private can be screenshotted, shared, or retrieved long after deletion, making them a permanent part of your digital footprint. Beyond personal risks, oversharing also contributes to a growing culture of surveillance. Companies collect your data to build profiles for targeted ads, eroding your control over your personal information. 

The first step in safeguarding your online privacy is understanding your audience. Limit your posts to trusted friends or specific groups using privacy tools on social media platforms. Share updates after events rather than in real-time to protect your location. Regularly review and update your account privacy settings, as platforms often change their default configurations. 

Set your profiles to private, accept connection requests only from trusted individuals, and think twice before sharing. Ask yourself if the information is something you would be comfortable sharing with strangers, employers, or cybercriminals. Avoid linking unnecessary accounts, as this creates vulnerabilities if one is compromised. 

Carefully review the permissions you grant to apps or games, and disconnect those you no longer use. For extra security, enable two-factor authentication and use strong, unique passwords for each account. Oversharing isn’t limited to social media posts; apps and devices also collect data. Disable unnecessary location tracking, avoid geotagging posts, and scrub metadata from photos and videos before sharing. Be mindful of background details in images, such as visible addresses or documents. 

Set up alerts to monitor your name or personal details online, and periodically search for yourself to identify potential risks. Children and teens are especially vulnerable to the risks of oversharing. Teach them about privacy settings, the permanence of posts, and safe sharing habits. Simple exercises, like the “Granny Test,” can encourage thoughtful posting. 

Reducing online activity and spending more time offline can help minimize oversharing while fostering stronger in-person connections. By staying vigilant and following these tips, you can enjoy the benefits of social media while keeping your personal information safe.
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Online Privacy
2FA chat records Cyber Breaches Cyber Security data deletion Data Privacy data security Digital Footprint Online Privacy

How to Declutter and Safeguard Your Digital Privacy

 

As digital privacy concerns grow, taking steps to declutter your online footprint can help protect your sensitive information. Whether you’re worried about expanding government surveillance or simply want to clean up old data, there are practical ways to safeguard your digital presence. 

One effective starting point is reviewing and managing old chat histories. Platforms like Signal and WhatsApp, which use end-to-end encryption, store messages only on your device and those of your chat recipients. This encryption ensures governments or hackers need direct access to devices to view messages. However, even this security isn’t foolproof. 

Non-encrypted platforms like Slack, Facebook Messenger, and Google Chat store messages on cloud servers. While these may be encrypted to prevent theft, the platforms themselves hold the decryption keys. This means they can access your data and comply with government requests, no matter how old the messages. Long-forgotten chats can reveal significant details about your life, associations, and beliefs, making it crucial to delete unnecessary data. 

Kenn White, security principal at MongoDB, emphasizes the importance of regular digital cleaning. “Who you were five or ten years ago is likely different from who you are today,” he notes. “It’s worth asking if you need to carry old inside jokes or group chats forward to every new device.” 

Some platforms offer tools to help you manage old messages. For example, Apple’s Messages app allows users to enable auto-deletion. On iOS, navigate to Settings > Apps > Messages, then select “Keep Messages” and choose to retain messages for 30 days, one year, or forever. 

Similarly, Slack automatically deletes data older than a year for free-tier users, while paid plans retain data indefinitely unless administrators set up rolling deletions. However, on workplace platforms, users typically lack control over such policies, highlighting the importance of discretion in professional communications. 

While deleting old messages is a key step, consider extending your cleanup efforts to other areas. Review your social media accounts, clear old posts, and minimize the information shared publicly. Also, download essential data to offline storage if you need long-term access without risking exposure. 

Finally, maintain strong security practices like enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) and regularly updating passwords. These measures can help protect your accounts, even if some data remains online. 

Regularly decluttering your digital footprint not only safeguards your privacy but also reduces the risk of sensitive data being exposed in breaches or exploited by malicious actors. By proactively managing your online presence, you can ensure a more secure and streamlined digital life.
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Open VPN
Anonymity Cyber Security Data Privacy data security Digital Privacy encrypted VPN server Online Privacy Open VPN

The Debate Over Online Anonymity: Safeguarding Free Speech vs. Ensuring Safety

 

Mark Weinstein, an author and privacy expert, recently reignited a long-standing debate about online anonymity, suggesting that social media platforms implement mandatory user ID verification. Weinstein argues that such measures are crucial for tackling misinformation and preventing bad actors from using fake accounts to groom children. While his proposal addresses significant concerns, it has drawn criticism from privacy advocates and cybersecurity experts who highlight the implications for free speech, personal security, and democratic values.  

Yegor Sak, CEO of Windscribe, opposes the idea of removing online anonymity, emphasizing its vital role in protecting democracy and free expression. Drawing from his experience in Belarus, a country known for authoritarian surveillance practices, Sak warns that measures like ID verification could lead democratic nations down a similar path. He explains that anonymity and democracy are not opposing forces but complementary, as anonymity allows individuals to express opinions without fear of persecution. Without it, Sak argues, the potential for dissent and transparency diminishes, endangering democratic values. 

Digital privacy advocate Lauren Hendry Parsons agrees, highlighting how anonymity is a safeguard for those who challenge powerful institutions, including journalists, whistleblowers, and activists. Without this protection, these individuals could face significant personal risks, limiting their ability to hold authorities accountable. Moreover, anonymity enables broader participation in public discourse, as people can freely express opinions without fear of backlash. 

According to Parsons, this is essential for fostering a healthy democracy where diverse perspectives can thrive. While anonymity has clear benefits, the growing prevalence of online harm raises questions about how to balance safety and privacy. Advocates of ID verification argue that such measures could help identify and penalize users engaged in illegal or harmful activities. 

However, experts like Goda Sukackaite, Privacy Counsel at Surfshark, caution that requiring sensitive personal information, such as ID details or social security numbers, poses serious risks. Data breaches are becoming increasingly common, with incidents like the Ticketmaster hack in 2024 exposing the personal information of millions of users. Sukackaite notes that improper data protection can lead to unauthorized access and identity theft, further endangering individuals’ security. 

Adrianus Warmenhoven, a cybersecurity expert at NordVPN, suggests that instead of eliminating anonymity, digital education should be prioritized. Teaching critical thinking skills and encouraging responsible online behavior can empower individuals to navigate the internet safely. Warmenhoven also stresses the role of parents in educating children about online safety, comparing it to teaching basic life skills like looking both ways before crossing the street. 

As discussions about online anonymity gain momentum, the demand for privacy tools like virtual private networks (VPNs) is expected to grow. Recent surveys by NordVPN reveal that more individuals are seeking to regain control over their digital presence, particularly in countries like the U.S. and Canada. However, privacy advocates remain concerned that legislative pushes for ID verification and weakened encryption could result in broader restrictions on privacy-enhancing tools. 

Ultimately, the debate over anonymity reflects a complex tension between protecting individual rights and addressing collective safety. While Weinstein’s proposal aims to tackle urgent issues, critics argue that the risks to privacy and democracy are too significant to ignore. Empowering users through education and robust privacy protections may offer a more sustainable path forward.
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Online Privacy
alternative messaging apps Cyber Security E2EE Google Google Security Tools Google Updates ISP MLS providers Online Privacy

Google Backs Messaging Layer Security for Enhanced Privacy and Interoperability

 

In 2023, Google pledged its support for Messaging Layer Security (MLS), a protocol designed to provide practical interoperability across various messaging services while scaling efficiently to accommodate large groups. This move marks a significant step towards enhancing security and privacy across platforms. Although Google has not officially announced the timeline for adopting MLS, references to the standard have been found in a recent Google Messages build, suggesting that its implementation might be on the horizon. 

To appreciate the significance of MLS, it is essential to understand the basics of end-to-end encryption (E2EE). E2EE ensures secure communication by preventing unauthorized entities, such as hackers and internet service providers (ISPs), from accessing data. In asymmetric or public key encryption, both parties possess a public and a private key. The public key is available to anyone and is used to encrypt messages, while the private key, which is much harder to crack, is used to decrypt them. 

Despite its advantages in providing privacy, security, and data integrity, E2EE has its shortcomings. If security is compromised at either the sender’s or receiver’s end, malicious actors can intercept the public key, allowing them to eavesdrop on conversations or impersonate one of the parties. Additionally, E2EE does not conceal metadata, which can be exploited to gather information about the communication. Messaging Layer Security (MLS) is a standard proposed by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) that offers enhanced security for communication groups, ranging from small to large sizes. 
While popular messaging services typically use E2EE for one-on-one chats, group chats present a unique challenge. MLS addresses this by using sender keys over secure channels to provide forward secrecy, meaning that the theft of a single key does not compromise the rest of the data. The protocol is based on asynchronous ratcheting trees (ART), which enable group members to derive and update shared keys. This tree structure approach ensures forward secrecy, post-compromise security, scalability, and message integrity, even as group sizes increase.  

Google Messages, the default messaging app on most Android phones, currently uses Rich Communication Services (RCS) to offer features like encrypted chats, read receipts, high-resolution media sharing, typing indicators, and emoji reactions. Although the Universal Profile version used by Google Messages does not support E2EE, it uses the Signal Protocol as a workaround for security. Recent APK teardowns of Google Messages have revealed code snippets mentioning MLS, hinting that Google might incorporate this feature in future updates. 

If MLS becomes the default security layer in Google Messages, it will significantly enhance the app’s security and interoperability. Google’s adoption of MLS could set a precedent for other messaging services, promoting better interoperability and security across communication apps. This move might also influence how Apple integrates RCS in iOS. With iOS 18 set to support the RCS Universal Profile 2.4 for messaging without E2EE, Apple may need to consider adopting MLS to stay competitive in offering secure communication. 

As Google prepares to implement MLS, we can expect a push towards standardizing communication protocols. Google Messages already offers features like auto spam detection, photomojis, and cross-device compatibility, making it a robust choice for staying connected. Should MLS be integrated, users can look forward to even more secure and private messaging experiences.
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Technology
Chrome Cookies Google Online Privacy Technology

Third-Party Cookies Stay: Google’s New Plan for Web Browsing Privacy


Google no longer intends to remove support for third-party cookies, which are used by the advertising industry to follow users and target them with ads based on their online activity.

Google’s Plan to Drop Third-Party Cookies in Chrome Crumbles

In a significant shift, Google has decided to abandon its plan to phase out third-party cookies in its Chrome browser. This decision marks a notable change in the tech giant’s approach to user privacy and web tracking, reflecting the complexities and challenges of balancing privacy concerns with the needs of advertisers and regulators.

In a recent post, Anthony Chavez, VP of Google's Privacy Sandbox, revealed that the search and advertising giant has realized that its five-year effort to build a privacy-preserving ad-tech stack requires a lot of work and has implications for online advertisers, some of whom have been vocally opposed. 

“In light of this, we are proposing an updated approach that elevates user choice. Instead of deprecating third-party cookies, we would introduce a new experience in Chrome that lets people make an informed choice that applies across their web browsing,” Anthony said.

For the time being, the Privacy Sandbox, a suite of APIs for online ad delivery and analytics that are intended to preserve privacy, will coexist with third-party cookies in Chrome.

The Initial Plan

Google’s initial plan, announced in early 2020, aimed to eliminate third-party cookies from Chrome by 2022. Third-party cookies, which are used by advertisers to track users across different websites, have been a cornerstone of online advertising. However, they have also raised significant privacy concerns, as they enable extensive tracking of user behavior without explicit consent.

Instead of dropping third-party cookie support in the Chrome browser next year - subject to testing that began in January - Google intends to give Chrome users the option of playing in its Privacy Sandbox or in the adjacent land of data surveillance, where third-party cookies support all manner of information collection.

It remains to be seen whether Chrome's interface for selecting between Privacy Sandbox and standard third-party cookies will be less confusing than the much-criticized "Enhanced ad privacy in Chrome" popup that announced the arrival of Privacy Sandbox APIs in Chrome last year.

Delays and Challenges

Despite the ambitious timeline, Google’s plan faced numerous delays. The company extended the deadline multiple times, citing the need for more time to develop and test alternative technologies. The complexity of replacing third-party cookies with new solutions that could satisfy both privacy advocates and the advertising industry proved to be a significant hurdle.

One of the key challenges was ensuring that the new technologies would not undermine the effectiveness of online advertising. Advertisers rely heavily on third-party cookies to target ads and measure their performance. Any replacement technology needed to provide similar capabilities without compromising user privacy.

Feedback from Stakeholders

Throughout the process, Google received extensive feedback from various stakeholders, including advertisers, publishers, and regulators. Advertisers expressed concerns about the potential impact on their ability to deliver targeted ads, while regulators emphasized the need for robust privacy protections.

In response to this feedback, Google made several adjustments to its plans. The company introduced new proposals, such as Federated Learning of Cohorts (FLoC), which aimed to group users into cohorts based on similar interests rather than tracking individual users. However, these proposals also faced criticism and skepticism from privacy advocates and industry experts.

The Decision to Abandon the Plan

Ultimately, Google decided to abandon its plan to phase out third-party cookies. Instead, the company will introduce a new experience that allows users to make an informed choice about their web browsing privacy. This approach aims to provide users with greater control over their data while still enabling advertisers to deliver relevant ads.

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VPN security
Encryption Online Privacy post-quantum cryptography Quantum computing secure communication Technology VPN security

Ensuring Secure Communication in the Digital Age with VPNs and Post-Quantum Cryptography

 


Cryptography secures online communication, but with reported losses of $534 million due to data breaches in 2023, robust encryption is crucial. Weak encryption invites breaches and man-in-the-middle attacks. Strong VPNs provide robust encryption and secure internet communication paths, essential for online privacy, security, and unrestricted access.

VPNs protect online activities by encrypting internet traffic, masking IP addresses, and bypassing geo-restrictions. They enhance security on unsecured networks like public Wi-Fi and prevent tracking by websites, advertisers, and governments.

Traditional VPNs use encryption algorithms like RSA and ECC, which are vulnerable to quantum computers' advanced capabilities. Quantum computers could break these algorithms quickly, exposing sensitive data.

Emergence of Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC)

As quantum computing advances, new quantum-resistant cryptographic algorithms are needed to ensure data security. Government agencies recommend adopting these algorithms to maintain secure communications in a quantum future.

PQC-VPNs use new cryptographic algorithms resistant to quantum attacks, ensuring long-term data protection. Early adoption helps organizations maintain security, comply with data protection regulations, and gain a competitive edge.

VPNs create secure tunnels for internet traffic, encrypting data before it travels and decrypting it upon arrival, ensuring secure communication.

Businesses must protect sensitive data and maintain regulatory compliance. PQC VPNs future-proof data security against quantum threats, safeguard sensitive information, and demonstrate a commitment to cutting-edge security.

PQC VPNs secure data transmission, partner collaboration, cloud connectivity, IoT communication, remote access, and customer data handling.

Transitioning to PQC involves updating VPN software and infrastructure to support new algorithms. A hybrid approach combining traditional and quantum-resistant encryption ensures a smooth transition. Comprehensive testing and performance optimization are crucial.

Overall, adopting PQC-enabled VPNs is essential for future-proofing enterprise security against quantum threats, ensuring regulatory compliance, and maintaining a competitive edge.
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