Let’s Discuss Privacy: What Is a Privacy Breach?

There are two terms that internet users frequently encounter – data breach and privacy breach. If they sound alike, that’s because they are very similar. When any unauthorized third party tries to access your personal information without your permission, that is considered a privacy breach.

The initial phase of a privacy breach is a security breach. It refers to breaching a system that protects a computer/device network to access and steal private data, including your credit card and bank account details, social security number, address, name, e-mail, etc.

Data breach and privacy breach refer to almost the same operation – someone is trying to steal your information. However, a privacy breach is precisely that – a breach of your privacy. Since it’s more personal than a data breach, let’s see how it can endanger you.

How PGP Encryption Protects Privacy and Information

The risks of a privacy breach

When we say privacy, we refer to every individual’s right to control how their personal information is used. Since internet users are constantly required to leave their personal data all over the web, this information has become extremely valuable to a wide range of third parties.

That includes computer-app makers, social network platforms, businesses, financial institutions, marketers and advertisers, health care organizations, government agencies, and hackers. Since your information can be pretty valuable to all of them, cybercriminals have found a way to target these organizations to harvest all sorts of data.

While all these institutions don’t present any particular danger to you, cybercriminals can use your data for more vicious activities. Worse yet, they can steal your identity and commit crimes with it that can result in serious problems with the authorities. Even if they might not do it themselves, they could sell data on dark web.

With all this in mind, let’s share some good tips on ensuring your privacy isn’t breached.

Use strong passwords

The first thing you should do is check all your passwords to guarantee that they are secure and strong enough. Then, ensure that each of your online accounts has a different password that is complex enough. The best way to create a strong password is to use a combination of symbols, numbers, and letters. You should also consider using a password manager to make it easier to deal with dozens of different combinations.

Ensure additional protection for your financial accounts

If hackers get their hands on your personal data, it will be easy for them to breach your firewalls and access your online accounts, etc. We recommend regularly checking all your accounts and keeping your security measures up to date to make sure this doesn’t happen.

You can also consider using multiple security solutions to receive alerts via email or SMS each time any unfamiliar activity takes place. Two-factor authentication also helps prevent unauthorized access further.

Keep an eye on your credit reports

Your credit reports can tell you right away if your identity has been stolen or if any third party tried to borrow money or open a new credit card in your name. If you notice any suspicious activity on your reports and bank statements, you should immediately take action.

Check your smartphone security

Since most people are mobile today, modern smartphones contain a lot of personal information that is just there for the taking, and hackers know it. Therefore, if you’re storing lots of personal and private data on your phone, make sure you protect it with a strong password.

You should also frequently check for updates for your operating systems and apps, lock your device when you’re not using it, use a face scan or a fingerprint, and create a strong PIN.

Consider using a top-class security tool

If you have important and vital data stored on your devices, use a top-rated security tool to ensure protection from viruses, malware, ransomware, etc. Also, check for important software updates frequently to ensure your data is as secure as possible.

You should also consider additional security solutions such as a VPN or trusted antivirus software that can ensure protection for all your devices. A trusted VPN provider such as Atlas VPN can guarantee an additional layer of protection when you’re using a public Wi-Fi connection. Thus, your information is always safe from prying eyes.

It can also increase your privacy and anonymity online when you’re browsing the web. More importantly, it can encrypt all your internet traffic and prevent an array of potential threats to your privacy and identity.

Conclusion

While there are countless solutions you can use to protect your privacy online, the best way to make sure your information remains private is to secure your data by any means necessary. Avoid oversharing on social media and consider credit monitoring services and identity theft protection so that you don’t leave anything to chance.