Nowadays, nearly every task on your to-do list can be completed online. From clothes shopping and hiring handymen to signing up for heath care and checking your credit score, many of our day-to-day tasks are accomplished via the Internet. For many of these transactions, a submission of your personal information is required. In fact, you allow so many sites access to your private information, it can be almost impossible to keep up with what information you've given and who you have given it to. 

Unfortunately, the price we pay for the convenience of the Internet is increased vulnerability. It's becoming increasingly easy for criminals to access a user's information. Therefore, it's very important to take extra precautions to protect your identity. Here are some tips to ensure your online privacy.

1.  Use a proxy server

A proxy server is basically a middleman between you and any site you visit. It acts as a third-party buffer, so any information you provide will seem to come from the proxy instead of your computer. Utilizing a proxy makes your actions online more anonymous and hides your IP address from prying eyes. Many proxies are available for your use for free and will add greatly to your online security.

2.  Develop effective passwords

Although they can be hard to keep track of, coming up with long, complicated passwords is one of the best things you can do to maintain your security. Long and even nonsensical passwords that involve numbers and symbols will be nearly impossible to crack. These iron-clad passwords are especially important to use on sites where your financial or medical information can be accessed. However, in trying to keep others out, don't accidentally lock yourself out as well! Write down the passwords for each site you use, and put the list in a very secure place, preferably a safe.

3.  Know which websites to trust

Especially when providing credit-card information, it's important to make sure that the websites you visit are secure. A good way to check the security of a site is to make sure that it has an SSL certificate. SSL provides encryption and keeps your information hidden from others.  

Another thing to look for is an icon that looks like a lock somewhere in your web's browser window. Clicking on that icon will provide you with the security details for that particular site. If a site does not have a lock icon, it doesn't necessarily mean the site isn't secure, but you should absolutely avoid submitting any sensitive information.

The online world can be a jungle, and people will take advantage where they can. But armed with the right knowledge, you can make the Internet a safe place for yourself. Consult a company such as Silent Security 1 for more security tips and options.