Internet Privacy Protection?

Privacy is synonymous with freedom and liberty. Internet privacy is not respected in the computer world we surf in. Defend yourself against deliberate intrusions by: malicious hackers, id thieves, overzealous marketers, unscrupulous service providers and invasive software & hardware vendors. Most do not ask permission before helping themselves to your ID, computer resources and data. Even governments charged with safe keeping our identity constantly loose, misplace or abuse your privacy.

What to do to protect your Internet privacy?
Fight back! Similar to installing a lock on your door, several proven Internet security & Privacy software solutions are available to help deter and prevent others from intruding & violating your privacy. By maintaining a "Clean Machine" you can prevent personal information and Internet useage from falling into the wrong hands.
1.- Do not fall for free software or services in exchange for personally identifiable info. They benefit far more from this relationship than you will ever know. Once you place any personal info, pictures or video on a social network- you loose ownership including your contacts. Be aware that most Internet service providers (ISP's) consider your personal info their "business asset". They track your every move to deliver targeted advertising and sell user data to the highest bidder. Look for privacy policies that allow your info to be transfers to far away places where laws on personally identifiable information or privacy are virtually non- existent.
2.- Take an active role to protect your own Internet privacy by saying "No!" to requests for personal information. If there is no a good reason along with details on how it will be used- refuse to provide it. Be aware there are organizations that collect user data from millions of users for profiling and id theft. By completing most surveys or registrations, you are effectively giving full control over your personal information to others. Most opt- out instructions are vague and difficult to complete on purpose- with no assurance your directions will be honored.
When signing up for toolbars- services or social networks- providers can not tell if you name is not "John Doe" or if you were born in 1897. Identity theft starts with as little as two key pieces of your identity, such as name- address.
3.- Use Quality Internet security software. It protects and makes your computer less venerable to Internet privacy violations and identity theft. Do not expect most freeware to be discrete.
Use spyware removal software and a firewall to protect your Internet privacy, files & settings. Internet Security suites provide more comprehensive coverage. By changing even one non-default setting, you will appear as less appetizing to automated probing, spyware & robot kit intruders.
Be aware that on-line services make your computer appear "the same" on the Internet. A bonus for predators & bots. These continuous protection services only protect you while on the Internet- not from USB drives- CD/DVD's or your local network. Even your operating system does not provide any anti virus protection and very little security.
4.- Be more demanding in by protecting your own computer privacy and security. You can surf anonymously to shield you from identity theft,bogus web sites, instant messaging capture & email tracking. Encrypt email & files to stop them from being altered or captured with traceable identity information.
Use computer cleansing software eliminate computer registry entries from old trial, shareware and pirated software & traces of social networking you thought were removed. Plus, it greatly improve system performance. A data destruction program is vital to permanently removing deleted files & emails & instant messaging and will clear your cache, remove temp files & surfing trails from uTube, Facebook, etc. improving Internet security.
These preventive measures and protection software go along way to prevent identify theft and preserve your Internet privacy. Privacy is a Right...not to be Left!