Archives - Privacy


Be careful with workplace chat services

Apps like Slack and HipChat are enormously popular in today’s workplaces. However, they log your conversations and may allow supervisors to view information without your knowledge. Use discretion or resort to other communications channels for private matters.

Don’t post your travel plans on social media

Sharing updates about vacations and other trips is one of the most common social media activities, but it’s a risky one. Making this information publicly viewable can be dangerous to your physical security: Someone might plan a robbery based on knowledge of when you won’t be at home.

Read online privacy policies

Privacy policies are the Internet’s equivalents of fine print: They often contain many important details that nonetheless usually go unnoticed. Any time a company notifies you of an update to its policy, be sure to read it, since it might explain how your data is collected and shared with third parties. You can then adjust […]

Limit Facebook’s insight into your Internet activities

Facebook can be a useful platform for keeping in touch with friends and family. However, it collects immense data on its users, even when they leave the site. Consider installing a browser add-on like Facebook Container in Firefox to hide your web browsing details from Facebook and prevent targeted ads and suggestions.

Cover your PC’s webcam when not in use

Most modern laptops and desktops have built-in cameras for video conferencing. Unfortunately, these utilities can be hijacked by malware that continuously spies on you, like the all-seeing telescreens from the novel “1984.” For peace of mind, affix a piece of tape to your webcam when not using it.