Now is an opportune time to take steps to protect your privacy online by decreasing your digital footprint and avoiding data breaches and identity theft. Here are a few helpful steps that will enable you to stay safe online by decreasing the footprint left and protecting yourself against data breaches and identity theft. Implementing these measures doesn’t need to be costly or time-consuming; all it requires is common sense and some simple habits for increased online security.
1. Use Strong Passwords
Passwords are your first line of defence against hackers who could exploit weak passwords to access accounts and steal personal or professional data. Most data breaches occur as attackers gain entry through these weak passwords.
Create passwords that are long, unique, and difficult for others to guess. Do not reuse passwords across multiple sites – credential stuffing scammers could take your password from one site and try it on hundreds more to gain entry to your account! Make sure you use a password manager so you don’t lose track of all your passwords!
2. Encrypt Your Data
Encrypted files make it nearly impossible for hackers to read transmitted and stored information, requiring them to spend years trying to decipher it all before it can be read out by a device or software program.
Encryption can also help protect your online privacy when using public Wi-Fi, so always utilise a VPN and consider switching to secure messaging apps that offer end-to-end encryption so only authorised recipients can view conversations.
3. Use Two-Factor Authentication
Every day, you likely access multiple accounts to access email, post on social media platforms such as Facebook or Instagram, pay bills and manage other aspects of life – which all store a wealth of personal data which leaves you vulnerable to cyber attacks.
Two-factor authentication can provide protection from such attacks. MFA requires two forms of credentials in order to log into an account – such as a password and authenticator app or text message code – which together prevent hackers from accessing it even if one or both credentials become compromised.
4. Keep Your Apps Updated
Software updates are released for a good reason – to fix security flaws in older apps that might expose you to cyberattacks. Make sure your devices remain up-to-date, and use a VPN when accessing sensitive information or signing into important accounts on public Wi-Fi networks.
Proper digital hygiene practices are key to safeguarding privacy in 2025. By following the tips outlined above, you can significantly lower your risk of data breaches and cyberattacks.
5. Change Your Passwords Regularly
Change passwords on a regular basis to protect your online privacy and avoid being compromised by cybercriminals who could access your personal data through methods such as phishing, malware or shoulder surfing at coffee shops or offices or brute force attacks to try and guess your passwords.
Your passwords should be long and complex and include upper- and lowercase letters, numbers and special characters – such as uppercase letters and numbers as well as special characters such as symbols. Avoid personal details like birthdays and pet names, which hackers could easily guess from public databases. If someone compromises your account, promptly update or change your password to prevent further issues.
6. Don’t Click on Phishing Links
Phishing attacks are responsible for numerous data breaches and, in some instances, lead to serious consequences. Therefore, cybersecurity awareness training is absolutely crucial.
Clicking links from emails could unintentionally download malware or direct you to phishing sites. Therefore, it’s crucial that you inspect links carefully by hovering your mouse over them and reviewing their web addresses that appear when hovered over with your mouse pointer. Also consider creating a disposable email address when signing up for apps or services you want to try out for testing purposes.
7. Use a Secure VPN
VPNs have become an indispensable way for many individuals to protect their privacy and security when accessing public Wi-Fi networks. VPNs can also protect against data harvesting, doxing, DDoS attacks, and other forms of cybercrime.
Prioritise online privacy if you share sensitive data like passwords or credit card numbers online. Utilising preventative measures, like VPN use and layering up additional digital security tools, will help safeguard your online security in 2025. For optimal protection, choose a provider with features such as ad blockers and kill switches.
8. Keep Your Devices Updated
Every time you use a website, make online purchases, or connect to public Wi-Fi networks, your personal data leaves behind a trail. If you don’t implement strict digital privacy controls, hackers could easily steal and exploit this data for malicious purposes.
Update your devices, software, and applications regularly to reduce cybercriminal vulnerabilities as well as the risk of data leakage by making sure your devices are encrypted and secure.
9. Turn Off Location Tracking
As your personal data is constantly being tracked and sold online, prioritising privacy should be top of mind. There are easy ways you can protect yourself without needing to become an expert in cybersecurity.
Make sure to regularly review your apps’ location settings and only allow for access when necessary to prevent hackers from creating an accurate map of your movements and targeting you with ads and scams. Also disable autofill on your phone so it cannot be misused to steal your information by hackers or identity thieves.
10. Get Rid of Apps and Browser Extensions You Don’t Use
Most security tools, including authenticators and password managers, come in the form of browser extensions. Unfortunately, malicious extensions may steal browsing data, install malware on computers, and take users directly to phishing websites.
Only download extensions from trusted sources and regularly review their permissions. It’s also advisable to remove apps or extensions you no longer use, as this can reduce your attack surface and enhance online privacy significantly. These simple actions can add up quickly!
