Protecting Your Privacy Online

We live in a digital era where most of our interactions and business transactions are done online. Furthermore, whether you sign up or log in on social media accounts, websites, or other platforms, you might provide your personal data and information. For this reason, it’s easy for you to get vulnerable to online crooks, such as online hackers and spies. When they obtain your financial data, they can use it for monetary transactions, personal information for identity theft, and other fraudulent activities. This is why it’s vital to protect your online privacy at all times.

(Updated August 2025)

Recent statistics show that cybercrime damages are expected to reach $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, making personal privacy protection more critical than ever. Data breaches exposed over 422 million records in 2024 alone, highlighting the urgent need for proactive security measures. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll share essential steps and advanced strategies on how to protect your privacy from online crooks:

Essential Privacy Protection Steps

1. Turn off your Touch ID and use a passcode instead

While your Touch ID or fingerprint sensor secures your data, federal agents can actually force you to unlock your phone using your fingerprint. This is possible primarily because it’s not considered a violation of the Fifth Amendment. In such cases, use a passcode on your mobile phone to keep your data secured. You might already be using a six-digit passcode; just be sure it is unique, and that you don’t share it with anyone.

Pro Tip: Consider using an alphanumeric passcode instead of just numbers for enhanced security. Mix uppercase and lowercase letters with numbers and symbols. Additionally, enable the “Erase Data” feature that wipes your phone after 10 failed passcode attempts. This provides an extra layer of protection against brute force attacks.

2. Update your digital device regularly

It’s important to keep your device always up to date. As no software is perfect, your device can become vulnerable to online attacks. Be sure to get rid of preinstalled apps or “bloatware” on your device, including web plugins, such as Adobe’s Flash, Oracle’s Java, and Apple’s QuickTime, among others. Ultimately, updating your device and the apps installed can significantly reduce the risks of online attacks because it is fitted with the latest security measures.

In 2025, automatic updates have become more sophisticated, but you should still review update logs to understand what security patches are being applied. Enable automatic security updates but consider manual approval for major OS upgrades. Set your devices to update during off-hours to avoid interruptions. Remember that outdated software is responsible for 60% of data breaches, making regular updates your first line of defense.

3. Be highly critical of installing apps

Keep in mind that you should always be highly critical when it comes to installing apps on your device. This is because most apps ask your permission to access your phone’s personal data and contact information as well as phone features such as photos and cameras. Pay particular attention to apps installed for free, as there might be a catch. If you aren’t comfortable giving access or providing data and information, then be sure not to risk it at all.

App Permission Best Practices for 2025:

• Review app permissions monthly and revoke unnecessary access
• Use “Allow Once” or “Allow While Using App” options instead of “Always Allow”
• Check privacy labels in app stores before downloading
• Avoid apps that request excessive permissions unrelated to their core function
• Consider using app sandboxing features available in modern operating systems

4. Encrypt your computer

As far as your computer is concerned, you should think about encrypting your device. Doing this is much easier when using Windows or Mac products that will give your device the utmost protection of your data and information. Just be sure not to upload your encryption keys to the cloud, or Microsoft or Apple might utilize them.

Encryption Methods by Platform (2025 Standards):

• Windows 11: BitLocker encryption with 256-bit AES, now with enhanced TPM 2.0 support
• macOS Sonoma: FileVault 2 with XTS-AES-128 encryption and secure token requirements
• Linux: LUKS2 with Argon2id key derivation for stronger protection

Additionally, consider encrypting individual sensitive files with tools like VeraCrypt or 7-Zip for an extra security layer. Store encryption recovery keys offline in a secure location, never in cloud storage or email.

5. Reduce your online footprint

Did you know that many data brokers crawl the Internet to obtain and post personal information online? Websites MyLife, Whitepages, and Spokeo make millions by selling access to this information. Try to Google your name along with your city to see these data broker sites on the top of the search results. When you see your name, find ways to reduce your online footprint. Rest assured that there are online services that can help remove your data and information.

Data Removal Strategy for 2025: Start by opting out from major data brokers manually (it’s free but time-consuming). Use privacy-focused search engines like DuckDuckGo to check your online presence. Consider professional removal services like DeleteMe or OneRep if you need comprehensive coverage. The California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA) and similar state laws now give you more power to demand data deletion.

Advanced Privacy Protection Techniques

6. Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Everywhere

In 2025, passwords alone are no longer sufficient. Enable 2FA on all accounts that support it. Use authenticator apps like Authy or Google Authenticator instead of SMS-based 2FA, which can be vulnerable to SIM swapping attacks. For maximum security, consider hardware security keys like YubiKey for your most sensitive accounts.

7. Protect Your Phone Number Privacy

Your phone number is often the key to your digital identity. Cybercriminals can use it for SIM swapping, spam, and identity theft. Consider using a secondary phone number for online registrations. Services like MobileSMS.io’s All Services plan provide non-VoIP USA numbers that work with virtually any platform while keeping your real number private. This creates a buffer between your personal information and potential threats.

8. Secure Your Home Network

Your home WiFi is your digital front door. In 2025, ensure you’re using WPA3 encryption (or at least WPA2). Change default router passwords, disable WPS, and create a separate guest network for visitors and IoT devices. Consider using a VPN at the router level for comprehensive protection of all connected devices.

Email and Communication Security

9. Use Encrypted Communication Channels

Standard email and SMS are not encrypted end-to-end. For sensitive communications in 2025, use encrypted messaging apps like Signal or WhatsApp. For email, consider ProtonMail or Tutanota for built-in encryption. When sharing sensitive documents, use encrypted file-sharing services rather than email attachments.

10. Beware of Phishing Attempts

Phishing attacks have become incredibly sophisticated in 2025, with AI-generated messages that are nearly indistinguishable from legitimate communications. Always verify sender addresses, hover over links before clicking, and never provide sensitive information via email. When in doubt, contact the organization directly through their official website or phone number.

Financial Privacy Protection

11. Use Virtual Credit Cards

Many banks now offer virtual credit card numbers for online shopping. These single-use or merchant-specific numbers protect your actual credit card from breaches. Services like Privacy.com or your bank’s virtual card feature add an extra layer of security to online transactions.

12. Monitor Your Credit Reports

In 2025, you’re entitled to weekly free credit reports from all three major bureaus. Set up alerts for any new accounts or inquiries. Consider freezing your credit if you’re not actively applying for loans or credit cards – it’s free and can be temporarily lifted when needed.

Privacy Tools and Resources

Essential Privacy Tools for 2025:

• Password Managers: Bitwarden, 1Password, or KeePass for secure password storage
• VPN Services: ExpressVPN, NordVPN, or Mullvad for anonymous browsing
• Browser Extensions: uBlock Origin, Privacy Badger, and HTTPS Everywhere
• Secure Browsers: Brave, Firefox with hardened settings, or Tor for maximum privacy
• Temporary Phone Numbers: MobileSMS.io’s All Services plan for protecting your real number

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I change my passwords in 2025?

A: Focus on using unique, strong passwords rather than frequent changes. Only change passwords if there’s been a breach or suspicious activity. Use a password manager to generate and store complex passwords.

Q: Is it safe to use public WiFi in 2025?

A: Public WiFi remains risky. Always use a VPN when connecting to public networks. Avoid accessing banking or sensitive accounts on public WiFi, even with a VPN.

Q: What should I do if my data has been breached?

A: Act immediately – change passwords for affected accounts, enable 2FA, monitor financial statements, consider a credit freeze, and report identity theft to the FTC if necessary.

Conclusion

Online security is a top priority for most online users in 2025. To protect your privacy from online crooks, implement multiple layers of security: turn off your Touch ID and use strong passcodes, update your digital devices regularly, be highly critical of installing apps, encrypt your computer, reduce your online footprint, enable two-factor authentication, and use privacy-focused tools and services. Remember that privacy protection is an ongoing process, not a one-time setup. Stay informed about new threats and continuously adapt your security practices.

Have you ever wondered how to register without using your number for online apps or sites? At Mobile SMS, we provide disposable phone numbers used on any website or app to protect your online privacy. Our All Services plan gives you access to non-VoIP USA numbers that work with virtually any platform, creating a crucial privacy barrier between you and potential online threats. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help strengthen your privacy protection strategy!