If you’re not paying for a product, you might be the product.

While the Internet offers incredible benefits, it can also put your data at risk. Websites and social media platforms collect user data, track online behavior, sell it to advertisers, and even use it to train AI systems.

Here’s what you can do to limit how much data these platforms collect from you.

Why is All This Data Collected?

In short: for market research.

Businesses rely on data to succeed, often using websites, social media, and apps to gather insights on user behavior, preferences, and interactions. This helps websites remember you—such as keeping items in your cart—and enables businesses to create targeted ads and content.

• First-party tracking: When a website tracks you directly.
• Third-party tracking: When an outside party tracks you across different sites, which is why ads follow you around after looking up a product.

With the rise of AI, some platforms are going even further. For example, LinkedIn recently faced backlash for using user posts to train its AI, highlighting an industry-wide trend.

Steps to Reduce Data Tracking

To reduce the amount of tracking, try the following:

1. Delete Your Browsing History
   Clear your history and cookies regularly to reduce ads based on your past activity.

2. Opt Out of Personalized Ads
   Many websites and apps offer options to opt out of personalized ads. Choose the least amount of data sharing available.

3. Adjust Privacy Settings
   Set your browser and device privacy settings to be as restrictive as possible, limiting unnecessary permissions.

Keep Your Data and Devices Secure

Protecting your data is key. InTegriLogic offers cybersecurity tools and training to help keep your business’s data safe. Reach out at 520-545-0691 to learn more.