A 12-Step Guide to Reclaim Your Privacy in Cyberspace

Your Privacy is Invaluable—Don’t Share it by Default. And It’s Never Too Late to Reclaim It.

Your Privacy in Cyberspace

The other day, while logged into Google Chrome, I browsed Amazon for a few products, carefully comparing prices and reviews, but I didn’t end up making a purchase. Later, as I switched over to Facebook—still logged in on the same Chrome browser—I was surprised to see ads for the exact same products I had looked at on Amazon. I hadn’t searched for them on Facebook or shared anything about my browsing habits. Yet, there they were, following me across platforms.

This is the reality of modern cyberspace, where your personal data is being collected, tracked, and shared—often without you even realising it. But the good news is, it’s not too late to reclaim your privacy.

Big Brother is Watching You?

When sophisticated state agencies are snooping, no one, in theory, is 100% secure. However, using services like iMessage or FaceTime for messaging and Signal or Telegram for text or voice communication is generally regarded as more secure. But in this piece, we’re not focused on high-level surveillance. Instead, we’ll explore general preventive steps that anyone can take to preserve and reclaim their privacy, which is now deemed a Fundamental Right under the Indian Constitution.

Here’s a 12-step guide to help you take back control, whether you are a pro or a novice.

1. Understand How Your Data is Collected

Every time you visit a website, engage on social media, or make a purchase online, data about you is being collected. This includes your name, location, browsing history, and even preferences for things like brands or products. Companies use this data to personalise ads, sell information to third parties, and even manipulate your online experience. The first step in reclaiming your privacy is understanding who is collecting your data and why.

2. Choose Privacy-Oriented Browsers and Tools

Your web browser is one of the main tools that can protect—or compromise—your privacy. While popular browsers like Google Chrome and Apple Safari dominate the market, they don’t necessarily offer robust privacy settings by default. Consider switching to privacy-conscious alternatives like Firefox, Brave, or DuckDuckGo, which block websites from tracking your personal data. Additionally, extensions like Privacy Badger can enhance privacy by preventing companies from tracking your online activities.

3. Leverage Privacy Laws

Several states and countries have enacted privacy laws that give individuals more control over their data. For instance, California’s Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) allows users to opt-out of having their personal data sold or shared. Other states like Colorado and Montana have also adopted similar laws. You can now request websites to delete your data or refrain from sharing it. Using privacy-focused services that automate these requests can ensure companies respect your choices.

4. Strengthen Passwords and Account Security

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect your privacy is to use strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts. A password manager can help create and store complex passwords securely. Additionally, enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible adds an extra layer of protection, making it harder for hackers to gain access to your accounts. This is highly recommended for senior citizens.

5. Be Mindful of Social Media Sharing

Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter (now X) thrive on user data. The more you share, the more valuable you become to advertisers. Be cautious about what you post publicly and adjust your privacy settings to control who sees your information. Minimising the details you share will reduce the data these platforms collect and use for targeted ads, like the ones I encountered after browsing Amazon.

6. Audit Your Digital Footprint

Over time, it’s easy to forget about all the online services and platforms you've interacted with. Regularly auditing your digital footprint can help you regain control. Review your accounts, delete old or inactive ones, and use online tools to track and manage your digital presence. You’ll be surprised how much data is still being held by services you no longer use.

7. Use Encrypted Communication Tools

If you’re concerned about privacy in your communications, consider switching to encrypted messaging apps like Signal or Telegram. These apps offer end-to-end encryption, ensuring that only you and the intended recipient can read your messages. This is especially important for sensitive conversations, as it prevents third parties from intercepting your communications.

8. Keep Software Updated

Outdated software can be a significant security risk. Make sure your operating system, apps, and browser extensions are updated regularly to close any security vulnerabilities that could expose your data. Many software programs offer automatic updates, making it easier to stay protected without having to remember each time.

9. Opt Out of Targeted Ads

Online advertising is one of the primary reasons companies track your data. To minimise targeted ads, you can opt out of ad tracking on platforms like Google, Facebook, and others. In addition, using browser extensions and VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) can block ad trackers and ensure your browsing activities remain private.

10. Stay Informed About Privacy Threats

The landscape of online privacy is constantly evolving, and new threats are emerging every day. Stay informed by following tech news, subscribing to privacy blogs, or using privacy advocacy resources. Being aware of the latest privacy threats and how to counter them is your best defence in the ever-changing digital world.

11. Manage Cookies to Control Your Data

Cookies are small files that websites store on your device to track your online behaviour. Some cookies are necessary for websites to function correctly, such as remembering login details. However, many are used to track your data and share it with advertisers. To control this, regularly clear your cookies and adjust your browser settings to limit tracking. Most browsers now allow you to block third-party cookies, which are used primarily for advertising purposes. Additionally, take the time to customise cookie pop-ups on websites, only accepting essential ones. By managing cookies effectively, you can reduce the amount of data websites collect about you.

12. Don’t Click on Unsolicited Links

Finally, one of the most important pieces of advice: avoid clicking on unsolicited links, especially from unknown sources. Whether received via SMS, email, iMessage, or apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal, these links often prey on your fears or desires. No matter how urgent or enticing they may seem, it’s best to avoid clicking altogether. Just don’t click!

Summing Up: Take Back Control

Reclaiming your privacy in cyberspace is not a one-time task; it requires continuous attention and vigilance. By following these 12 steps, you can better protect your personal data, minimise the amount of information companies collect about you, and take back control over your online presence. With the right combination of tools, privacy-conscious habits, and supportive laws, you can create a safer, more private digital experience—one that hopefully keeps hackers, phishing attempts, and unwanted tracking at bay. Stay proactive, and your digital privacy will remain within your grasp.