• Data is a huge market commodity now and the threat of unsolicited data collection from online services is real.
• With security and privacy breaches hitting the news frequently, limiting what data your internet service provider or other online entities can collect is a great way to avoid being a breach victim.

The date and time of internet access, your location when accessing the internet, websites visited, and downloaded content are some of the metrics that your internet provider may monitor and collect. Here are a few things you can do to allow ISPs to collect minimal information about you.

Explore different browsers

Instead of going with popular choices, take time to research about the privacy features of different browsers, including the lesser-known ones. Look for privacy options they provide and how much data they limit from your ISP.

Keep in mind that using a browser’s incognito mode does not prevent ISPs from monitoring your activities online.

Invest in a VPN

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can help block your ISP from tracking your data. However, make sure that you do ample research and read the fine print before investing in a VPN service. Because in the process of protecting yourself from your ISP, you don’t want the VPN provider to collect data about you.

Look beyond the laptop

It isn’t just the laptop that you should be worried about. Remember that any device that uses the internet can be traced. Mobile phone and other wearable devices can often be used to collect much more sensitive information about users than possible through simple web browsing.

Use HTTPS

Although using HTTPS does not ensure complete security, it is still one step ahead of the HTTP. Using HTTPS means that the data you send and receive is encrypted. Avoid browsing through and providing any personal information on websites still using the HTTP protocol.

Block third-party cookies

To avoid cross-site tracking by online services, one can choose to install browser extensions or apps that block third-party cookies and scripts. This prevents malicious services from tracking you through compromised websites and also prevents highly personalized targeting for online advertisements.

The takeaway

It goes without saying that protecting your data is now more important than ever. There are places and times when you can stay in control of your data, and these methods can help you gain more privacy in your online activity. Invest in solutions to protect data from your internet service providers to stay safer online.