In recent years, issues related to data privacy are being much discussed and questioned. This has been growing since the 2016 US presidential election, where it was proven how Facebook used personal data to make targeted electioneering.
Data Privacy: How to Stay Safe in the Digital World
In Brazil, the subject gained new strength with the General Data Protection Law (13,709/2018). The Federal Public Prosecutor’s Office website says the following about the law:
“TheGeneral Data Protection Law(13.709/2018) has as its main objective to protect the fundamental rights of freedom and privacy and the free development of the personality of the natural person. It also focuses on creating a scenario of legal security, with the standardization of regulations and practices to promote the protection of personal data of every citizen who is in Brazil, in accordance with existing international parameters.”
Despite this security, we still had some very tense moments regarding data privacy. After all, in 2021, the country suffered from major data leaks and invasions of various institutions, including the Ministry of Health itself.
That way, we decided to make this text so you know what to do to stay safe in the digital world. So read everything until the end so you don’t take chances!
Here are 5 ways to ensure your data privacy
In the list we prepared, we excluded some of the most basic and well-known forms of protection, such as antivirus, firewall, etc. We prefer to focus on more practical and modern methods. Check out:
1. Use two-factor authentication
Using two-factor authentication is like redoubling the barriers between your data and hackers. Instead of relying only on a password, the system now requires an extra form of verification. For example, a code confirmation by text message on the registered cell phone.
Virtually all email servers already have this functionality. So if you haven’t activated your two-factor authentication yet, please do so as soon as possible.
2. Have a VPN
VPNs are considered as one of the safest ways to protect your data, acting as a virtual shield. Basically, they have the function of replacing your IP address with one of the VPN providers, which blocks hackers from accessing your data.
It is possible to install a VPN through programs and applications. In addition, the variety of devices that accept it is huge, such as computers, smart TVs, and smartphones, among others.
3. Use an app to manage your passwords
Just as two-factor authentication is important, you should also think carefully about the wording used in passwords. First, make sure that each password is different from each other. Second, create combinations of letters, numbers, and symbols that are complex and varied.
While this method is great for ensuring data privacy, it’s pretty hard to remember all those complicated passwords. Therefore, the best recommendation is to use an application that helps you manage and organize passwords on different devices, such as LastPass.
4. Don’t leave updates for later
Do you know when that system or device update message goes up? We know it’s tempting to leave it for later, as updates often take time and end up disrupting our activities. However, don’t take too long to apply them!
Generally, these updates exist to fix system vulnerabilities and security bugs. Therefore, leaving them for later could mean exposing your data to possible invasions and attacks.
5. Be careful with public wi-fi
Who has never taken advantage of public Wi-Fi, right? It can be something really positive, but at the same time this act leaves your device vulnerable to intruders. After all, it is much easier for them to break into a device that has already used shared internet.
Therefore, prefer to use your 4G or a private router to prevent malicious users on public Wi-Fi from compromising your security.
Did you know these methods to ensure your data privacy? Ever had a bad experience with data leakage? Tell everything!