When it comes to cybersecurity, privacy and security are the two most common buzzwords. Due to many data breaches, hacks, and other exploits, people are becoming increasingly concerned about both their privacy and security. It’s no wonder that people confuse these terms and use them interchangeably.
Although similar in some aspects, privacy and security are not the same. They do share a common thread, though, and that is the protection of personal information.
But what makes them different? Let’s find out.
What Is the Difference Between Security and Privacy?
Both privacy and security are crucial aspects of both organizations and individuals. But it is also imperative to learn how to differentiate them. That way, you can ensure that you use proper cybersecurity measures to protect both.
Although one can’t exist without the other, privacy deals with protecting one’s identity. Meanwhile, security covers protecting data in general. Besides that, there are a couple of more things that set them apart:
- Security isn’t dependent on privacy. But you can’t achieve full privacy without security.
- Privacy is the ability to protect sensitive user information. Security fights against unauthorized access.
- Security focuses on protecting a broad set of information that an organization collects. In contrast, privacy focuses more on personal information. It aims to protect phone numbers, addresses, credentials, credit card information, etc.
- The primary goals of security include data confidentiality, availability, and integrity.
- The main goal of privacy is to free the user from identity compromise and unsolicited tracking.
- Different software solutions safeguard security and privacy.
- Privacy ensures that personal information is not disclosed in an unauthorized manner.
- Security ensures that all data is safe from unauthorized use.
As you can see, both have their respective areas of interest, so you need to protect them in different ways.
The good thing about it is that a lot of software solutions come with features that protect both privacy and security. But not all tools have these features, so you must know what you should and shouldn’t use.
How Can You Protect Your Digital Security and Privacy?
There is a wide variety of tools and apps that can assist users in remaining safe online and preserving their privacy. Although not all means protect both at the same time, they are still instrumental. Moreover, you can always use more comprehensive solutions to ensure maximum security and privacy. Here are the top six must-haves.
Use a VPN
VPNs are among the most sophisticated software solutions that protect both your privacy and security. What is a VPN, and how does it work? VPN stands for Virtual Private Network, and it is a security layer (or a tunnel if you prefer) between the user and the internet.
VPNs use encryption to ensure that no third-parties can log or see your online data. And it also protects users against various forms of cyberattacks. It is especially useful when accessing public and open Wi-Fi connections. Find more information here: https://nordvpn.com/what-is-a-vpn/.
Install an Antivirus
Antivirus is another solution that protects both privacy and security. Of course, the original antivirus feature focuses on security. But many antivirus software solutions come with added features to improve one’s privacy, as well. In this world of hacking exploits, an antivirus is always a valuable tool.
Use a Firewall
A firewall is another barrier between the user and the internet. You can use it to block suspicious and unauthorized access. It is a critical prevention measure for remaining safe online. Most operating systems have a built-in firewall, but there are also great third-party solutions. If you opt for third-party firewalls, make sure to download files only from reputable sources and companies.
Use a Password Manager
A password manager is yet another fantastic security tool that helps with mitigating some hacking attempts. It has two primary purposes:
- Saving user’s passwords and encrypting them
- Suggesting strong passwords
Moreover, password managers can protect users from some keylogging. It is a popular data-stealing method. Keyloggers track whatever the user is typing, collect the data, and send it back to cybercriminals. By using a password manager, you remove the need for typing passwords, making it impossible for hackers to keylog it.
Use Secure Messaging Apps
Secure messaging apps are particularly useful for mitigating privacy risks. Proper secure messaging apps use robust encryption protocols. They encrypt the conversations and render them unusable for malicious actors. Some examples include Signal, WhatsApp, and Telegram, among others.
The recent influx of data breaches and other cyber-attacks should make users concerned about their safety. It is everyone’s responsibility to educate themselves more about how to stay safe and ensure privacy when browsing the web. Always make sure that you’re being responsible. Keep following the best security practices and using the latest security and privacy tools.
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