🛑 They Are Watching
“Just because you're paranoid does not mean they aren't after you.”
From giant corporations to small businesses, everyone wants your data. Your browsing habits, purchase history, wishlists, calls and messages are all quietly harvested. If you value your privacy even a little, these tips will help you stay ahead.
🔌 Disable Java and Flash in Your Browser
These plugins are still used in some corners of the web but they are among the most vulnerable to exploits. Flash and Java have historically been two of the biggest security liabilities. Most malware takes advantage of their weaknesses to infiltrate your system.
🎥 Disable Your Camera and Microphone
Gaining access to a computer's webcam is disturbingly easy. Even Mark Zuckerberg tapes over his. While hijacking a microphone is a bit harder, it's still possible. Disabling both protects you from spying and potential blackmail.
🌐 Monitor the Websites You Visit
Many websites communicate with domains you’ve never seen. To visualize this, try the Lightbeam extension. It shows exactly who is tracking you and how your browsing is being monitored across the web.
🤳 Be Cautious on Social Media
Anything you post today could haunt you tomorrow. To avoid identity theft, never share full personal information publicly. Enable two-factor authentication on every platform you use. No matter how strong your password is, it is not enough on its own.
🏧 Be Alert at the ATM
ATM fraud is common and damaging. Small hidden cameras can easily capture your PIN while card skimming takes seconds. Shield your keypad with one hand while entering your code with the other.
🍏 Consider an iPhone
Because Android is open-source and its apps often bypass thorough review, it is more prone to malware. In contrast, iOS has a tighter permission model and sandboxing. Apps must ask for permissions at runtime and cannot access system internals or personal data freely.
💻 Use a Separate Computer for the Internet
This is an extreme measure but very effective. If you want complete isolation, use a dedicated or virtual machine for online activity. It prevents cross-contamination from risky browsing to your main system.
🔐 Secure Sensitive Activities
When handling sensitive tasks like online banking, use a dedicated computer or browser. Never browse casually or click random links with this setup. Even a single click can be enough to infect your system.
🕵️♂️ Use the TOR Network
TOR routes your traffic through multiple encrypted layers, making it very difficult for your ISP or government to trace your activity. Unlike incognito mode, TOR actually hides your identity and location. Just remember that being too stealthy can sometimes attract more attention, so use wisely.
⚠️ Don’t Click Unknown Links
Most viruses enter your system when you click suspicious email or social media links. Always verify the sender’s email address. If it claims to be from “Turkcell” but the email is “[email protected]” you know something is wrong. If you must check the link, open it in a sandbox or virtual machine first.
💵 Use Cash When You Can
Credit card skimming is real. If you hand over your card at a restaurant or store, it only takes a few seconds to copy its data. Use credit cards for large, trusted transactions only. Use cash for everything else.
🔏 Encrypt Everything
Encrypt your entire hard drive if possible. If your computer is ever lost or stolen, no one will be able to access your files. Both Android and iPhone support full device encryption. Just make sure you store the password safely in case you forget it.
🙏 Final Thought
Digital security is not about paranoia. It is about control. Take your privacy seriously before someone else takes it from you. The tools are available. All it takes is awareness and action.