Say good-bye to your internet privacy – not that you ever really had privacy anyway.
Since the House of Representatives voted to reverse regulations preventing the sale of your web browsing history, your internet provider is free to sell your data without you opt-in permission.
This means you’ll need to take your online privacy into your own hands. Several technical workarounds, namely virtual private networks (VPNs) will return some semblance of control to you, the internet user. But even these solutions are not perfect. When it comes to privacy, while tech can help, it doesn’t take the place of having strong regulations on your side. So it’s time to armor up.
Opt-out
When your service provider (ISP) tries to collect and sell your data; switch providers. Consider wireless where four major carriers are competing for your business. The home broadband providers face so little competition that there may not be incentive to offset the revenue generated by the sale of your info. If your contract prevents leaving, you may be able to opt-out of having your data tracked.
Many security experts recommend that you use what’s called a virtual private network (VPN). In effect, VPNs route all your traffic through their service. Instead of your internet provider having a list of websites you’ve visited, your history will only show that you have connected to one particular server.While VPNs are a front-line defense tool, they have limitations.
Using a VPN, you might not be able to access some websites & services as before. Netflix, for one, attempts to block VPNs to prevent viewers from accessing content that is not licensed in the United States. Others sites block VPN providers that have been used by hackers or criminals to cover their digital footprints.
Tor is free software that hides your location and browsing habits by letting you communicate anonymously on the Internet. It works by routing your traffic through multiple servers around the world. It’s free and, since it is “open source” and not tied to a company, at least partially solves the trust concern. But Tor software can be complex to set-up, and typically slows down your connection speeds.The repeal of the internet privacy laws places the burden of your privacy entirely on you. Your business should remain your business. We can help. Let’s get started ➞