BALTIMORE — With all the data breaches we saw in 2018, it may seem like an impossible task to protect your online information, but a data privacy company says there are ways to minimize your exposure.
Baltimore-based privacy protection company TrackOFF found that 75 percent of the websites you visit collect information about you, such as your web browsing history. Seeing what clothes or items you shop for online may seem harmless, but there are much bigger concerns. Insurance companies and creditors could potentially buy this information from data brokers and use it against you.
“Based on what you look at on the web, a bank might buy information from a data broker that shows them you're an irresponsible shopper and that might impact your ability to obtain credit,” said Chandler Givens, CEO of TrackOFF.
TrackOFF is one service aimed at privacy protection. They mask your device so data brokers aren't able to see that it's you searching for this information. Their service costs around $30 a year.
Some other tips:
- Read the terms of service before sharing your information with websites and apps. Understand what you're giving up before you click agree
- Get a dummy email account that you use only for online shopping
- Don't post birthdays or phone numbers online and be careful about what you share on social media
Copyright 2019 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Sign up for the Headlines Newsletter and receive up to date information.
FAQs
“Based on what you look at on the web, a bank might buy information from a data broker that shows them you're an irresponsible shopper and that might impact your ability to obtain credit,” said Chandler Givens, CEO of TrackOFF. TrackOFF is one service aimed at privacy protection.
Can your search history be used against you? ›
If you are already charged with a crime, your browser data (including your search history) can be subpoenaed by the prosecution. For instance, your internet history can be used against you to establish a motive for a crime or that you had the knowledge to commit a crime – even if you were browsing in “private” mode.
Can the person who pays for internet see my history? ›
That said, a Wi Fi owner can still see your browsing history, meaning it does not deliver the perfect private browsing experience. However, the WiFi owner cannot see what you've done on those websites, indicating there is a use for this.
Is internet browsing history personal data? ›
In addition, some privacy frameworks consider anything that can help determine someone's identity, such as online identifiers or Internet browsing history, to be personal information. Internet technology has made personal data collection more widespread than ever before.
Can your browsing history be tracked? ›
If you've wondered “Can anyone see my search history?”, the answer is yes. The search engine itself, your web browser, your internet service provider (ISP), some advertisers, website owners, app owners, and, in some cases, authorities can see what you search for on Google.
Is it safe to delete search history? ›
If you want to keep your device more private and keep your browser running smoothly, quickly clearing your device's browser history can help. There's no fixed or recommended time for deleting your browsing history, cache, and cookies. It's all relative to your system's storage space and personal preferences.
When you delete your history is it really deleted? ›
Even after clearing your Google history, your browsing activity could still be saved on your computer. If you don't want anyone who has access to your computer snooping on what you've been browsing, clear your browser history, too.
Can anyone see my history after I delete it? ›
Does deleting history really delete it? No, only on the surface. Your internet provider collects and stores this information for a period that depends on data retention laws (often 6 months/1 year). The best way to protect your data is to prevent them from seeing your search history at all.
Can the FBI see my search history? ›
The FBI can look at your search history if it has the opportunity, and it will undoubtedly take advantage of that if you are a person of interest. To protect yourself and your data, you can use Safe Browsing by Clario AntiSpy, which boasts features that help keep you safe online.
Can the government see my deleted search history? ›
Although security clearance background checks can be intensely thorough, the government can't view your emails, Internet browsing history, hard drive data, and other virtual assets without a subpoena or warrant.
In conclusion, it's clear that even after clearing your browsing history, your sensitive data can still be at risk. But there's a straightforward solution to ensure your online activities remain confidential.
Can someone spy on your browsing history? ›
What Incognito Mode doesn't protect. ISPs are still able to track your browsing history and see which websites you visit. The websites you visit can also still track activity with cookies and IP tracking. Network administrators who have access to your device can monitor your web browsing.
Is your search history really private? ›
The terms “private search” and “incognito mode” sound great. But while your history is erased on your device, it's still visible to the outside world. Even when you're in incognito mode, websites, your ISP, and your network can still see your IP address and browsing history.
Can my parents actually see my search history? ›
Parents/guardians: Parents or legal guardians may monitor their children's browsing history using parental control software or monitoring tools. Authorities: Law enforcement agencies or government entities may legally track browsing history by obtaining warrants for access to internet service provider records.
Is My search history Secure? ›
The short answer is: yes. Regular internet users won't see your internet history, but several other parties can, and you shouldn't take your online privacy lightly.
