How to Avoid Online Identity Theft Automatic translate

The internet has become a part of our daily lives. We pay bills, shop, store photos, and communicate via instant messaging. But along with convenience comes risks — criminals are increasingly stealing personal data: passwords, banking information, documents, and correspondence. Losing your privacy online is easier than you think, so it’s important to know how to protect yourself.

What is considered personal data?

Many people think that personal data only includes a passport or card number. In fact, this definition encompasses much more information:

• name, telephone number and address;
• email and social media accounts;
• photographs and correspondence;
• history of purchases and search queries;
• device data, IP address and location.

Even without a direct hack, attackers can gather enough information about you to impersonate you or gain access to your accounts.

How data is usually stolen

1. Phishing. The most common method. You receive an email, message, or link that mimics a familiar website (bank, store, email). When you enter your username and password , your data falls into the hands of scammers.
2. Fake websites. Copies of popular resources with similar addresses, where you transfer data without noticing the substitution.
3. Weak passwords. Simple combinations like "123456" are easily guessed, or leaked from other sites can reveal your logins.
4. Open Wi-Fi networks. In cafes, subways, or airports, hackers can intercept unencrypted data.
5. Malware. Viruses that get onto a device through attachments, downloads, or ads and transmit information to attackers.

Simple ways to protect your data

1. Use unique and strong passwords. Use
   different combinations for different websites . Include primary letters, numbers, and symbols. It’s best to store passwords in password managers rather than in your phone’s notes.
2. Enable two-factor authentication.
   Even if someone learns your password, they won’t be able to log in to your account without an additional code (such as from an SMS or app).
3. Be careful with links and emails.
   Check the website address before entering any information. Official companies never ask for account details or passwords in emails.
4. Check your address bar.
   Real websites use the secure HTTPS protocol. If you see "http" without the "s," you shouldn’t enter any personal information.
5. Don’t connect to suspicious networks.
   It’s better to use mobile data. And when using public Wi-Fi, avoid entering passwords and payment information.
6. Keep your software and devices updated.
   Updates patch vulnerabilities that hackers often exploit.
7. Be careful about the information you publish.
   Personal photos, receipts, tickets, and documents should not be posted online. Even the smallest details can be a source of scammers’ attention.
8. Separate work and personal accounts.
   This reduces the risk that a leak from one source will affect all of them. For additional protection, use separate browser profiles or dedicated tools to manage your digital footprint.

Additional protection

If you frequently manage multiple accounts, manage projects, or use the internet for business, it’s important to pay special attention to security.
Modern tools allow you to isolate profiles, hide technical data, and prevent tracking. One such tool is Octo Browser.