There was an Internet uproar last month when it was revealed that the National Security Agency (NSA) was demanding consumer information from many popular tech companies like Facebook, Google and Twitter. However, software companies have released several optional add-ons or browser extensions that can help users combat this privacy infringement on the part of the government and web giants.
“Most people just think that giving up their privacy is the cost of using the Internet,” said Jeff Bermant, CEO of Virtual World Computing, a company that makes a browser privacy extension called Cocoon. “They don’t know that there are ways they can protect their data while online.”
These free browser add-ons work by finding and blocking cookies from users’ web surfing. Sites like Facebook can use browser cookies to track who users are friends with, what their favorite websites are and even their shopping activity. After the PRISM revelations, owners of many online privacy and security companies said the download numbers on their products skyrocketed.
“Once folks know they can make simple adjustments that vastly curtail what they share, they’re less fearful when they hear news of breaches,” said Jim Brock, vice president of privacy products of security company AVG.
Even though many consumers are nervous about the government’s wiretapping program, it’s heartening to know that private companies can at least in part combat the issue. Readers: what are your favorite online privacy services or products?
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Recommended Resources
SocialSafe helps you to create your library of you. It’s the safest place for your online life. Downloaded to your computer, auto organised and instantly searchable. Supports most major social networks.
BitDefender Safego is a Facebook application you can install that will scan your News Feed and help keep you safe from scams on Facebook.
PRIVATE WiFi® is a Personal VPN that encrypts everything you send and receive. Don’t access Facebook from a public WiFi hotspot without it.
