Just Say No To 3^rd Party Tracking and Data Leaks

In today's digital age, personal data is one of the most valuable commodities. Companies are constantly looking for ways to collect and use this data for their own gain. One of the most concerning ways that companies collect data is through third-party tracking. Third-party tracking is the practice of using cookies, pixels, and other tracking technologies to collect data about your online activity from websites and apps that you visit. This data is then shared with other companies for a variety of purposes, including targeted advertising, market research, and more.

The Reality of Third Party Tracking

While third-party tracking may seem harmless at first glance, it can be quite dangerous. For starters, it can lead to data leaks. Data leaks occur when personal information is accidentally or intentionally shared with parties that are not authorized to receive it. This can happen when a company's servers are hacked, or when employees mishandle sensitive information. In either case, the result can be devastating. Just last week, Uber’s third party vendor Teqtivity suffered a data breach of over 77,000 Uber employee information. Personal information such as names, addresses, and credit card numbers can be used to commit identity theft and other forms of financial fraud.

When Social Media Knows You Too Well

Another issue with third-party tracking is that it can be used to target individuals with unwanted or even harmful advertising. Third-party trackers can collect information about your browsing habits and use that data to target you with ads that are tailored to your interests. While this may seem like a convenient feature, it can also be used to target individuals with ads that are misleading, or even harmful.

We jokingly say Instagram knows us better than we know ourselves, but, it truly does. If you have ever seatched for something on your browser, and then had an ad pop up for it while scrolling, your browsing habits have been tracked. When this turns harmful is when scammers use third-party tracking to target individuals with phishing scams or other forms of malware through ads on a social platform. This can cost you hundreds, if not thousands of dollars if you engage with them and click their link or purchase!

Another problem with third-party tracking is that it can be used to monitor and profile individuals without their knowledge or consent. This can be used for a variety of purposes, such as targeted advertising, political manipulation, and even censorship. In some cases, third-party trackers can even be used to monitor individuals' activities on a real-time basis, giving companies an unprecedented level of insight into individuals' personal lives.

What Can You Do?

So what can be done to protect yourself from third-party tracking and data leaks? Our simple solution is simple: download the secure, and third-party free, ORBITi browser. Not only does it prevent third-party tracking, it also keeps your information private, as well as holds the tools for you to keep your personal information secure. With a simple download, on Windows or Mac, you’re able to browse securely without your business being broadcasted to your social media feed!

In addition to ORBITi, you can also use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection, making it more difficult for third-party trackers to collect data about your online activity.

Another solution is to be mindful of the websites and apps that you use, and to only use those that have a good reputation for protecting user privacy. Be sure to read the privacy policies of the websites and apps that you use and be on the lookout for any red flags.

You also can opt-out or “deny” the cookie settings on every website you visit. When you “accept cookies”, you are allowing that business to track your information.

In conclusion, third-party tracking and data leaks are a growing concern in today's digital age. These practices can lead to a wide range of problems, including data leaks, targeted advertising, and even political manipulation. To protect yourself, you should download the private ORBITi browser, and VPNs, and be mindful of the websites and apps that you use. By taking these steps, you can help to protect your personal data and keep your online activities private.