5 tips to protect your privacy on the Internet

In the age of the Internet, ICT, and mobile devices, browsing the web from our smartphones or tablets has become almost as commonplace as breathing.

Specifically, the mobile phone is now an indispensable gadget in our lives , accompanying us everywhere, from the moment we wake up until we go to bed. We use it for (almost) everything: sending and receiving messages and emails, searching for all kinds of information, accessing our social media profiles, viewing and sharing photos, videos, and other multimedia content, searching for work, reading other users' opinions, making online purchases, staying constantly informed, and so on.

Without a doubt, the Internet is an inexhaustible source of information and entertainment . A very useful and powerful tool, although like everything, it's not without risks and dangers . For example: the violation of our privacy .

Are we really aware of how easy it can be for third parties to access our data? Are we sufficiently protected against this threat?

Since every precaution is too small, in today's post we'll share a series of tips to control and enhance your privacy when browsing on your smartphone.

• Be careful with geolocation : As you know, the most popular social networks have geolocation features . This is the case with Twitter, Facebook, and Swarm (the latter based specifically on geolocation). If you have the geolocation feature enabled, every time you post on one of these social networks, you are publicly sharing your exact location . Yes, it can be very tempting to say you're at the coolest restaurant or venue in town. And there's no better way to prove it than with geolocation. But consider whether you really want everyone—yes, everyone, without exception—to know where you are at all times. Keep this in mind especially when you go on vacation or a trip. It's not a good idea to let thieves know that you won't be home for a while.

• Be careful with dating apps: Tinder, Badoo, Happn... They're great for having fun, meeting people, making new friends, or—who knows?—finding the love of your life. But be careful: not everyone is who they say they are. Therefore, we recommend that you don't give out personal information during initial contact or before meeting someone in person. Never give out your ID, postal address, or bank details , or you could have serious problems.

• Check the usage permissions each app requests: When you first install an app, it tells you what permissions it needs . For example, access to your contacts, your photo and video gallery, your camera , etc. Some apps require too many permissions for what they offer, so be careful. If you're not entirely sure why such a simple app requires so much data, delete it from your device.

• Use official app stores: Downloading apps from unofficial stores to get a discount can be very expensive in the long run, as these apps are likely to carry some type of malware . Google Play isn't immune to this type of malicious files, but it will always be much more reliable than any unofficial store .

• Install a good antivirus : This is undoubtedly the most effective and secure way to protect yourself against online dangers . Get a good antivirus to keep your smartphone safe from cyberattacks. You'll find several options on Google Play .

And you? Do you know how to protect your privacy online?