Privacy over the Internet is far too often a subject that goes unnoticed. When you are online, you could be sending vital data to other computer owners and websites that you wouldn’t want to share, even if you aren’t aware of it. By using relevant software and programs, you can keep such information secure.

Almost every website you visit will have some sort of tracking cookie to detail who you are. Any website that requires you to login and register will keep cookies on your machine to identify you and grant you access to certain portions of the website. At the same time the cookies can be used to track other data you don’t want to share. Cookie blocking techniques can be employed by software to stop such tactics.

Websites can tell where you are from, sometimes down to the very city in which you live, through what is called an IP address. The IP address is given to customers of Internet service providers, or your ISP. IP addresses are unique to every connection, so it is not a good idea to share the address with everyone on the Internet. Making your IP address invisible is possible through proper security software suites.

Even connecting to a network not connected to the Internet can prove risky to your situation. A network that is connected and allows others to connect at will should be considered high risk, since others can ping your computer and look for security holes if the proper measures aren’t in place. Security hole scanners are also a good idea for network administrators if you happen to be one.

To help alleviate the burden of Internet users on a slow connection, websites have been storing local data on client computers for a long time now. The data could be image files and basic information, but even that information could be found by others who use your computer and could be sensitive. Clear such files on each closing of the browser to be extra safe on what information is stored about your browsing habits before letting another use the computer.

Stealth port technology exists to act as a buffer between you and would-be attackers. Stealth port technology simply hides ports that are otherwise easily scanned. Hiding ports from a scan will protect your details from being found out, which could lead to a possible attack if you have vulnerabilities in your current machine. Staying up to date on security updates is always good, but stealth port technology is equally so.

In Conclusion

The Internet has a time and place for sharing information, but not all of your information is something that you want to share. Sharing something such as your location, for instance, would be something that you wouldn’t want every stranger to on the Internet to know about.

Learn more about Freeraser and Hotspot Shield.