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Seven ways to protect your privacy online |
1) Think twice before filling out online surveys and questionnaires. It’s often a requirement to download free software, or to enter a contest, but these questionnaires can furnish detailed personal information including salary ranges, street addresses and phone numbers.
2) Consider using one of the free Web e-mail services to create a second address. Use that address when you order online or to register a Websites. Try www.hotmail.com, www.yahoo.com or www.loadmail.com.
3) Some free programs can contain tiny tattletale software called spyware. Check out Web sites such as www.spychecker.com and www.lavasoftusa.com to find ways to identify and sometimes remove spyware.
4) Use a firewall program. This is software that monitors and protects you computer from intruders. It can warn you if spyware is sending out information about your browsing habits. Buy Norton Internet Security and any software store or activate the free tools included in Windows XP. For Mac Users, IP NetSentry is considered the best program to block unwanted intruders.
5) If you want to mask your online footprints, use one of the anonymizer Web sites that shield your browsing habits. Two good ones are www.anonymizer.com and www.anonymprom.com/free/nph-surf. Both offer basic free service and more elaborate protection for a fee.
6) If cookies – those tiny text files that can reveal personal information – bother you, learn more at www.junkbusters.com/ht/en/cookies.html. Most often cookies serve legitimate purposes, but they can be misused. This site will tell you how to spot bad cookies and remove them.
7) Your Web browser can be set up to offer more security. Use the help section and type in words such as security and avoid revealing too much personal information. |
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