3. Better Privacy Online

We all leak far too much information about ourselves online. Some of it we cannot avoid, but a massive amount is information we have voluntarily put out onto the internet – on social media and elsewhere. Cyber criminals genuinely conduct research into specific people if they have identified that person as having something they want – be it money or access to a specific company or system.

Data to Go…

Data to Go – Cifas

Lock It Down

Start thinking about what you share when you post anything online. Do the ‘billboard test’ – would you be happy to see what you are sharing on a huge advertising board in a busy place. If not, don’t share.

For guides to locking down most of your accounts, see:

Although intended for parents they are great guides for everyone.


NPCC Stay Secure Online Booklet

The National Police Chiefs Council have created this booklet which contains simple instructions for how to appropriately secure common social media accounts, browsers, smart phones and apps.


Diving Deeper into Privacy

Start doing some simple web searches looking for your name combined with basic information like the town where you live. Find where you exist online and request removal of data.

Change your browsing habits

Think about using stealth mode (e.g. Chrome Incognito, Firefox private window) – be aware they don’t hide what you do from everyone including the other end of the connection. Use a private search engine if necessary.

Complete a Google privacy check-up and turn off web & app activity tracking in your Google account:


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