Internet Investigations: Are You as Protected as You Think?

In the back of your mind, you probably know that websites are collecting information about you when you go online. Sure, they know where you are and what sites you’re visiting – but have you ever stopped to find out exactly what is being learned about you and by whom? The amount of personal information being collected by every website you visit is staggering. Everything you do online, plus details including your location, operating system, languages, and plugins, can be tracked. Most of what you do is public, so think of your online activity as an open book.

All of this collected information can be used to build a file on you, including your personal details, preferences, and habits. When browsing openly, you have no control over these records, and they can be used for virtually any purpose, often without your knowledge. Many of these purposes are innocuous, but keep in mind that dossiers on you can also be created and used by your enemies.

Of course, there are ways to hide various information and activities when doing internet investigations – creating fake social media accounts, switching IP addresses, using tools to clear tracked information and hide your computer’s online address – but even these tools must be combined with vigilant, consistent practice to be fully effective. You must keep all of your logins, account names, and emails separate; keep track of which activities took place under which accounts; and – seemingly simple, but crucial to remember – turn your tools on each and every time you get online.

Your online activity can never be truly anonymous, but with the right tools and methods, you can successfully hide from those with nefarious intent. To learn more about why it’s crucial to remain disguised online during internet investigations, the steps you should take, and the consequences of even a small slip-up, check out the video our Chief Scientist, Lance Cottrell, made with Fifth Domain.