Protecting personal data has become a necessity in our daily digital lives. Today, we use apps and websites to chat, shop, study, work, pay bills, order transportation, access banks, schedule appointments, and store files. In exchange for this convenience, many platforms request information such as name, email, phone number, location, photos, documents, contacts, and payment details.
The problem is that we don't always realize how much we're sharing. Sometimes we accept permissions without reading them, create accounts on untrustworthy websites, reuse passwords, or click on suspicious links. Small oversights can create opportunities for scams, account hacks, misuse of data, and unnecessary exposure.
The good news is that some simple actions can help reduce risks. You don't need to be a tech expert to better protect your privacy. With attention and safe habits, it's possible to use apps and websites with much more peace of mind.
Use strong and different passwords.
Passwords remain one of the main barriers to protecting online accounts. Therefore, avoid obvious combinations, such as birth dates, family names, numerical sequences, or simple words.
Ideally, use long passwords with letters, numbers, and symbols, or phrases that are difficult to guess. Even more importantly: don't reuse the same password across multiple services. If a platform suffers a data breach, criminals may try to use the same password for emails, banks, social media, and online stores.
CERT.br recommends caution with authentication and emphasizes that using only passwords may not be sufficient protection against attacks and data breaches.
Enable two-step verification.
Two-step verification, also called two-factor authentication, adds an extra layer of security. In addition to the password, the account requires a second code or confirmation.
This code can come via an authenticator app, notification, security key, or SMS. Whenever possible, prefer authenticator apps or security keys, as they tend to be stronger options than relying solely on text messages.
Google explains that two-step verification helps prevent unauthorized access even when a password is stolen, as it requires a second confirmation upon login.
Be careful with app permissions.
Many apps request access to the camera, microphone, location, contacts, photos, and files. Some permissions make sense. A map app needs location. A video calling app needs the camera and microphone. But not every app needs access to everything.
Before granting permission, ask yourself if it's truly necessary. Does a simple game need access to your contacts? Does a flashlight app need your location? Does a photo editor need your microphone?
Review permissions periodically in your phone's settings. Remove unnecessary access and delete apps you no longer use. CERT.br recommends using privacy settings for systems and applications, as well as deleting unused apps.
Download apps only from trusted sources.
Avoid installing apps via links received in messages, groups, or unknown websites. Whenever possible, use official app stores like Google Play and the App Store.
Apps downloaded from sources other than trusted ones may contain malware, steal data, display intrusive ads, or monitor activity. Even in official app stores, it's worth checking reviews, number of downloads, developer, and permissions requested.
On Android, features like Play Protect help detect potentially dangerous apps and can block or remove threats, as well as revoke permissions from harmful apps.
Be wary of urgent links and messages.
Digital scams often exploit haste and fear. Messages claiming your account will be blocked, that there's a suspicious purchase, that you've won a prize, or that you need to update your information immediately should be carefully analyzed.
Avoid clicking on links received via SMS, email, WhatsApp, or social media when there is an overwhelming sense of urgency. Instead, access the official website by typing the address into your browser or using the genuine app.
Also, never share verification codes. Reputable banks, stores, and platforms do not ask for complete passwords or authentication codes via text message.
Read privacy policies with basic attention.
Not everyone has the time or patience to read entire privacy policies, but it's important to note the key points: what data is collected, what it will be used for, whether it is shared with third parties, and how to delete information.
Trusted websites and apps should clearly explain how they handle personal data. Official Brazilian government guidelines on privacy reinforce that terms of use and privacy policies must be made available in an accessible way to the user.
If a platform doesn't provide any information about privacy or seems too confusing, think twice before registering your data.
Beware of unnecessary registrations.
Not every website needs to receive your complete information. Before creating an account, consider whether it's truly necessary.
Avoid sharing your CPF (Brazilian tax identification number), address, date of birth, or phone number unless there is a clear reason. The less data scattered across the internet, the lower the risk of misuse.
It's also worth reviewing old accounts. If you no longer use a particular service, consider deleting the account or removing saved personal information.
Protect your payment details.
When shopping online, choose well-known websites or sellers with good reviews. Verify that the website address is correct and that the payment page is secure.
Using a virtual card can be a good measure, especially for one-off purchases. Many banks allow you to generate temporary cards or cards with a set limit, reducing risks in case of data breaches.
Avoid saving your card at multiple stores. This convenience makes shopping easier, but it also increases your risk if your account is compromised.
Keep your system and applications updated.
Updates aren't just about changing appearances or adding features. Many fix security flaws that could be exploited by criminals.
Keep your phone's operating system, browser, and apps always up to date. This is especially important for banking, email, messaging, social media, and shopping apps.
Also remove abandoned apps or apps that haven't been updated in a long time, as they may pose a greater risk.
Use public Wi-Fi networks with caution.
Free Wi-Fi in cafes, airports, hotels, and shopping malls can be useful, but caution is advised. Avoid accessing banks, shopping, or entering sensitive data on public networks.
If you need to use it, prefer official websites, secure connections, and, when possible, a reliable VPN. Also, disable automatic connection to unknown networks.
Public networks can be exploited to capture information or direct users to fake pages.
Configure privacy settings on social media.
Social networks accumulate a lot of personal data: photos, routines, location, contacts, preferences, places frequented, and family relationships.
Review who can see your posts, stories, friends list, tags, and profile information. Avoid posting details such as your address, documents, exact routine, or real-time travel information when this could pose a risk.
Privacy is also about prevention. The less sensitive information that is public, the lower the chance of someone using it in scams or social engineering attempts.
Conclusion
Protecting personal data on apps and websites depends on simple, consistent habits. Using strong passwords, enabling two-step verification, reviewing permissions, being wary of suspicious links, downloading apps from trusted sources, and taking care of payment information are fundamental actions.
The internet offers convenience, but it demands attention. Every registration, permission, and click can increase or decrease your digital exposure.
By making more conscious choices, you don't have to stop using apps and online services. Simply use them better, share less when possible, and maintain control over your information. In an increasingly connected world, protecting your data means protecting your identity, your security, and your peace of mind.
