Internet privacy is the set of rights and protections a person has concerning information about them that can be found online. The information may include personally-identifying data like a name, address, phone number or email address, but it also could be a device fingerprint (the unique identification attributes of software and hardware used to access the internet). People have concerns about this information being collected by websites and companies and then sold, repurposed or displayed to third parties. Internet privacy also involves the right to be left alone while using the internet. Tools such as Virtual Private Networks, encrypted messaging apps and anonymous browsing modes help users protect their online privacy.
A recent scandal involving the collection of personal information on Facebook led to renewed discussion of internet privacy and the need for stronger protections against a variety of cyber threats. Other issues that arose as a result of this incident included concerns about the security of people’s passwords and the potential for criminals to use their personal information for phishing scams, identity theft and other crimes.
The need for internet privacy has also become increasingly important as the world’s economies shift to a digital economy. As more and more business is conducted via the internet, the amount of information a person leaves behind online grows and becomes more and more valuable to hackers and unscrupulous marketers. This increased visibility also creates more opportunities for individuals to be victimized by doxing, harassment and swatting attacks, among other dangers.
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