Safer Internet Day 2024 arrives amidst growing concerns over restricted access to various popular apps, prompting users to seek alternatives to bypass new regulations. In an era marked by the constant collection and analysis of vast amounts of data, the threats of data breaches, identity theft, and privacy invasions have become more prominent than ever. Last 06 February 2024, observed annually as a crucial reminder of safeguarding personal information in the digital age, Kaspersky‘s experts underscored the imperative for users to take proactive measures in securing their data.

In 2023, debates arose in multiple countries, including Brazil, Ireland, Japan, and the USA, regarding the restriction of certain popular apps. The deliberations in the USA led to limitations on TikTok in over half of the states, but users, unwilling to part with their favorite apps, turned to alternative means such as installing replacement apps or unauthorized copies.

However, these imitation downloads, aimed at evading restrictions, are often poorly developed, lack clear privacy policies, or outright violate users’ rights. Many of these applications tend to vanish over time due to reasons like insufficient user numbers, and potentially exposing sensitive data to third parties.

To avoid such risks, Kaspersky experts offer the following advice:

Users are advised not to hastily install anything on their devices in response to discussions about app limitations. Rushing to find alternatives may jeopardize personal information, as these apps or pirated copies may not prioritize user data safety. It is recommended to carefully weigh the pros and cons before installing unverified content, with official app stores considered the safest option.

Understanding one’s privacy rights is crucial. Familiarizing oneself with the relevant legislation, such as the Data Privacy Act of 2012 (DPA), provides a foundation for assessing whether an app’s privacy policy respects user rights and complies with data collection regulations. Users should also ensure the ability to contact customer services and request the deletion of personal information.

Minimizing data oversharing is essential to prevent inadvertent disclosure or misuse of personal information. Limiting access to features like photo feeds, contacts, and location, as well as controlling microphone access, can enhance privacy and reduce the risk of long-term privacy issues.

“Restricting popular apps has become a more frequent practice than it used to be. Users looking for a replacement do not always get a quality app with a transparent privacy policy. Knowing users’ rights and paying attention to who and how the app collects data can help prevent personal information from falling into the wrong hands,” according to Anna Larkina, Web Content Analysis Expert at Kaspersky

Utilizing modern security solutions is recommended to safeguard personal data online. These solutions can block unauthorized access to personal information, alert users to leaked phone numbers and other data, and warn against downloading malicious files. Some services provide instructions to enhance the overall security of personal data.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Robert “Bob” Reyes is a technologist, an ICT Consultant and Tech Speaker, a certified Google IT Support Specialist, and an Open Source advocate representing the global non-profit Mozilla (makers of Firefox) in the Philippines. Bob is a Technology Columnist for the Manila Bulletin Publishing Corporation and an aviation subject matter expert contributor for Spot.PH.

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