9 online privacy risks you probably don’t know about

Privacy risks are becoming more prevalent in today’s digital age, as personal data is being collected, tracked, and sold without individuals’ knowledge or consent. Data brokers are compiling sensitive information about people’s daily lives, including sleep patterns, medical visits, online habits, and even relationship statuses. This data is then used by advertisers, insurance companies, political campaigns, and even cybercriminals.

Many individuals are unaware of the extent to which their personal information is being shared online. Here are nine personal details that you may be unknowingly sharing:

1) Sleep and fitness data: Fitness trackers, bedtime apps, and phone settings can provide data brokers with information about your sleep patterns, workout routines, and overall health.

2) Streaming habits: Smart TVs, streaming apps, and browsers track what you watch, when you watch it, and for how long. This data is used to create a behavioral profile of your interests and preferences.

3) Reading habits: Data brokers monitor how long you spend reading articles online to identify your fears, desires, and interests.

4) Relationship status: Online activity, such as purchase history and social check-ins, can reveal information about your relationship status.

5) Location data: Your phone’s location data can track visits to medical facilities, which can be sold to data brokers without your knowledge.

6) Home value and crime stats: Public records provide data brokers with information about your home’s value, tax history, and neighborhood crime rates, which can be used to target you with specific ads.

7) Household composition: Data brokers can determine how many people live in your home by monitoring Wi-Fi connections and online purchase patterns.

8) Political views: Browsing history can be used to infer your political affiliations and place you on lists of likely voters.

9) Life milestones: Data brokers can predict major life events, such as engagements or moves, based on your online behavior.

While it may be challenging to completely erase all traces of your online data, using a trusted data removal service can help minimize your digital footprint and reduce the risk of being targeted by scammers. By being aware of what information you are sharing online and taking proactive steps to protect your privacy, you can regain control of your personal information in today’s hyper-connected world.