When navigating the World Wide Web, you must work to protect your privacy . Data recovery specialists will tell you that it is much easier than you think to get your personal information off of a computer. By taking these steps, you will do all that you can to protect your personal information online.

Tip 1 – Use an Alias

When you register products, including your word processing program or other software programs, use an alias and do not give out your personal email address. Do the same with your browser. Check the name on your browser by visiting "Setup," "Options," and "Preferences." You do not want potential thieves to detect your information easily.

Tip 2 – Be Careful with Email

Learn to use email safely . Do not share personal information, such as credit card or Social Security numbers, via email. While the intended recipient may be perfectly safe, it is always possible for a spyware program to see what is in the email.

Tip 3 – Guard Information

There will be times when you need to share information online, but do so with extreme caution. Only share information with trusted websites that have proper security protocol in place. Learn to look for signs of proper online security .

Tip 4 – Be Careful with Cookies

“ Cookies " are tiny pieces of information that are stored on your computer. These are often usernames and passwords for websites. While most are harmless, you should enable cookie notices on your Web browser or use some sort of cookie management software to protect yourself from problems. Some cookies can be explored by outside users without the need for file recovery software, so you need to know what is being stored.

Tip 5 – Read Privacy Policies

When you are using a website regularly, read the privacy policy . These are filled with legalese, but you need to look to see if the website will share your personal information with third parties. Avoid giving personal information out if it will be shared.

Tip 6 – Never Allow Third-Party Sharing

When you are doing things online, you will often be asked whether or not the company can share your information with their "sponsors." Always say no to this request, because you are the only one who should decide who can receive your personal information.

Tip 7 – Pay Attention to Online Forms

When an online form has a box asking for permission to share your information, always uncheck the box. Again, you need to be the one deciding who receives your personal information . Also, never give out your Social Security number unless you know you are on a secure site with a trusted company and they have a very good reason to ask for it. Never share personal information if you do not feel that the website is legitimate.

Tip 8 – Designate a Special Email Account

Sometimes you will need to do things online that could put your privacy at risk. Perhaps you are joining a new forum or signing up for an offer. Set up a free email address to use only for these services. Keep your personal and business communication with a separate account.

Tip 9 – Know When You Are Being Monitored

Your Internet connection may be being monitored without your knowledge. For instance, if you use the Internet at work, you may not be using a private connection. Employers often track what their employees are doing online. This can put your personal information and passwords at risk.

Tip 10 – Use Encryption

You can encrypt your emails and files very easily with free and low-cost software. This gives you one last defense against privacy threats. Get one of these programs before you accidentally send out any more personal information to willing online criminals, spyware bots, and other curious onlookers.

By taking a few simple steps, you can protect your privacy when you navigate the World Wide Web. Remember, it only takes a moment for someone to steal your information and your identity, so be careful!