With increasing concerns over privacy and security, individuals and organizations are proactively taking steps to protect their data online. Recent trends reveal the rising popularity of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) among Americans, innovative privacy features introduced by WhatsApp, and methods to conceal personal information on platforms like Getcontact. These measures reflect a growing recognition of the need for heightened online privacy and security.
According to CNET, 43% of American adults actively use VPNs, with nearly half of those users doing so primarily to safeguard their online activities and IP addresses. Neal O'Farrell, a cyber security expert with over 40 years of experience, emphasizes the necessity of using VPNs, particularly as people's online habits come under increased scrutiny. "Rather than rolling the dice and hoping no one is watching, it's best not to take the risk," O'Farrell advises.
VPN usage has surged amid recent events, including the brief TikTok ban earlier this year. Many millennials and Gen Z individuals sought to bypass restricted content during this time, leading to 50% of both demographics trying to access blocked sites using VPNs. Moe Long, senior security editor at CNET, notes, "The threat of TikTok being banned sparked increased interest in VPNs as people looked for methods to circumvent restricted access."
Interestingly, 52% of VPN users cite privacy protection as their primary reason for utilizing these services. With most Americans still unfamiliar with VPNs, this percentage is likely to grow as concerns about data tracking and online exposure intensify.
Mobile devices have also seen rising VPN adoption, with 51% of users accessing these networks via smartphones. O'Farrell stresses the significance of securing mobile devices, noting, "We forget we conduct many sensitive transactions on our phones. The threats are everywhere, and if you’re using your phone as your daily tool, you need to protect it.”
Beyond VPNs, messaging app WhatsApp has introduced several privacy features aimed at providing users with greater control over their information. One such feature is end-to-end encryption, ensuring only the sender and recipient can read the content of messages. WhatsApp does not store messages on its servers, thereby reducing the risk of interception by unauthorized parties.
The app also allows users to customize their privacy settings to control who can view information like profile pictures, online status, and last seen timestamps. Users can choose options like "Everyone," "My Contacts," or "My Contacts Except…" to tailor their privacy settings according to their preferences. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for those who wish to limit visibility to work colleagues or strangers.
Another key feature introduced by WhatsApp is the Chat Lock, which provides users with the ability to secure specific conversations using biometric authentication or passwords. This added layer of security ensures sensitive messages are accessible only to the account owner.
On another front, WhatsApp has incorporated two-step verification, requiring users to set up a six-digit PIN as another safeguard against unauthorized access. Activators for this feature can easily be found under the app’s settings, making it user-friendly.
Shifting gears to how individuals can protect their phone numbers, many now prefer using platforms like Getcontact to conceal their information. This practice prevents data misuse and reduces spam or harassment risks from unknown callers. Users can easily hide their numbers through the app or website, ensuring greater control over who sees their contact information.
Google also recently revamped its “Results About You” tool, enabling users to delete outdated or sensitive personal information from search results. This new feature allows for easier management of online presence and prompts Google to update pages containing personal details.
Privacy is increasingly becoming central to online interactions, prompting innovations and strategies from various platforms. Whether through VPNs, enhanced messaging privacy options, or effective data management tools, the message is clear: prioritizing online privacy and security is now more important than ever. People are changing their habits, adopting new technology, and demanding greater control over their information. It's evident we are moving toward a more privacy-conscious digital world, and users should embrace these resources to protect themselves.