Are your devices spying on you? The answer is yes. Your devices are full of your personal information and, oftentimes, your user data is bought and sold by third parties. In reality, your data is a goldmine of information about you and your habits. The rate at which we produce data is shocking too. According to Edge Delta’s research, the average person produces 1.7 MB per second or 6,120 MB per hour of data. Every time you share something on Instagram or stream something on Netflix, you are creating data. Beyond that, your devices have the ability to track you physically. With that in mind, here are some of the biggest threats to your privacy and how you can protect yourself.
1. Location Tracking
One of the most obvious ways your devices are spying on you is by sharing your location. Some location services make sense. Google Maps needs to know your location to give you accurate directions or your Pizza Hut app might need your location to confirm delivery or carry out. However, it seems like just about every app wants permission to access your location these days. Oftentimes, it isn’t needed and could potentially put your safety at risk. Make sure to read the fine print when agreeing to location services. You can also shut off permissions in your settings.
2. Installed Application Methods
Your Android may be snooping on you without your knowledge. Many developers use installed application methods or IAMs to see the data stored by other apps on your phone. Researchers explain that more than 50% of apps in the Google Play Store use IAMs. IAMs are usually used for debugging purposes and can be useful, but this information can also provide developers with intimate details about your life. For iPhone users, the same is true but in general, Apple has stricter privacy control policies than Android.
3. Website Cookies
Many of us are aware that our browsing history is tracked by stored cookies. When you visit a new website, you may have seen a pop-up asking you to accept that your cookies are being used. If you accept, your data and activity on that site are stored and can be accessed by the website operator. Cookies are most often used for targeted advertising. They also allow for your login information, shopping carts, and searches to be stored. You can always opt out of cookies when you visit a new site to keep your data safe.
4. Microphone and Camera Access
While your camera and microphone aren’t actively spying on you, they can be hacked. A red flag is if your camera light turns on when you’re not using it. Hackers can record you or listen in without your knowledge. The best way to protect yourself is to cover your camera when not in use, keep your anti-virus software up-to-date, and manage permissions to your camera with caution. One of the most notable cases of hacking involved Ring doorbells. The FTC settled a lawsuit this year with Ring “over charges the company allowed employees and contractors to access consumers’ private videos and failed to implement security protections, enabling hackers to take control of consumers’ accounts, cameras, and videos.”
5. Physical Security
Your devices have the keys to all your information. If you lose your smartwatch or cell phone, anyone could have access to sensitive details like passwords, schedules, and more serious info. It may sound like common sense, but using a lock screen password, face ID, or Touch ID on your devices could save you from trouble in the future. If you do lose your phone, you can use Find My Device if you have an Android. Find My iPhone is available for Apple users. You should also report your phone as stolen if it goes missing. This way, you can be proactive about protecting your information.
Your Devices Are Spying on You But You Can Take Control
In a world where privacy is never guaranteed, it’s important to protect yourself. Your devices are spying on you. Ultimately, the more data you share, the more vulnerable you will be. While it may seem impossible to keep a low profile, you can limit the amount of data you share. Just be sure to manage permissions, use strong passwords, limit cookies and data sharing, and always read privacy agreements.
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Teri Monroe started her career in communications working for local government and nonprofits. Today, she is a freelance finance and lifestyle writer and small business owner. In her spare time, she loves golfing with her husband, taking her dog Milo on long walks, and playing pickleball with friends.
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