How are Search Engines a Risk to Privacy

Can you imagine your life without the internet? Well, it’s quite difficult to manage our daily life without the internet, since it has become an important aspect in our daily lives. When it comes to the web, it’s safe to say that search engines play a very important role. Almost all of us use search engines every other day. Through various search engines such as Google, Bing, and many others, we get information we want. Now, people are even educating themselves about pretty much everything through these services. But, do you know that there’s a privacy threat when you use these services?

3 ways that your Privacy Could be at Risk when using Search Engines

Search Engines are the doorways to the vast internet, since most of us come to know about many websites through them. But, you got to be careful while using them.

• Exposure to Malware-embedded websites: Usually, many people blindly trust the websites they find through these search services. But, there are several websites out there that are infected with malware, virus, and other types of harmful elements. When we carelessly browse through such websites, there is a high probability of your device getting infected. These harmful components may steal your data and sometimes use it against you. Ransomware attacks are perfect examples for this phenomenon.

• Data Leaks: Many people are not really careful while submitting their information to search services or any other websites. Sometimes, you data may fall into the wrong hands and you can’t really do much when it happens. Data theft is a major cyber security issue. Your sensitive and confidential information could be posted on the online black markets as well.

• Redirection to phishing sites: One of the most-used hacking attack techniques is none other than the Phishing. Usually, hackers redirect you from a normal website to phishing websites through cloaking. If you’re not careful enough, you can easily get hacked. Then, your online account, including your private information will be accessible for the hackers.

How to use Search Engines Safely?

It’s not some rocket science to learn how to search safely and responsibly. Here are a few tips for you:

• Use Reputed Search Engines: There are many malicious websites out there, disguising themselves as a genuine search website. Avoid them at any cost. Only use well-known services such as Google, Bing, and similar others.
• Make use of Encryption: Many search engines now offer encrypted search modules. Since, encryption is a more secure way to operate online, try to go with the website that offers encrypted services.
• Remove Cookies periodically: Cookies track all of your activity with that particular website. So, in some cases, it could pose a serious threat to your privacy. It’s better to delete these temporary files regularly. You can do it either manually or by using any reputed cleaner software.
• Use a VPN: Virtual Private Network masks your IP address and protects your identity. By doing so, they also lets you hide your important information such as your location. So, get a reliable VPN and start using it while accessing internet.
• Be Cautious with your searches: Never use search terms that include your confidential details such as card details, ID number, or any other similar stuff. If such information falls into the wrong hands, it could lead to a disastrous end.
• Stop using Public Networks: When you search for something while using a public WiFi network, it’s usually much easier for someone to track your usage. Many malware attacks are conducted via public networks.

Conclusion:

These are very simple yet effective steps that you could take to protect your privacy while using search engines. By now, you may have gotten a clear understanding on how search websites could be a risk to your privacy and how to handle the situation effectively. It’s now time for you to take these precautionary measures and secure your privacy. Feel free to comment below, if you’ve got anything to say about this topic.