Keep Your Data Private: 5 Essential Steps to Protect Internet Security in 2026

Don't want to be tracked? Learn how to use a VPN, stop Cookies, and strengthen your passwords. Here are 5 Steps you can take to fully protect your Internet Privacy in 2026.

Introduction: Why Is Your Data Important in 2026?

First of all, if I'm being honest, today's internet has no place to hide information, and you should know that right now. As we know, there are companies that collect our data, such as where we are, who we talked to, or the website we visited all of these movements are monitored. Today, the number of hackers worldwide has increased, as they can easily access all your information. The most important advice I give you is to protect your data, because you can be attacked from places you don't expect. Start protecting your data today; I have presented 5 Basic Steps that I have prepared for you to ensure your data is completely confidential in 2026.

1. Use a Professional VPN (Your Digital Armor)

What is a VPN? A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a wall between you and the rest of the internet. It hides your real location (IP Address) and encrypts all data between your device and the internet. I recommend you use a VPN.

The Step to Take: Never use free VPNs. Start relying on high-quality VPNs that maintain a Zero-Log Policy (meaning they don't collect any of your data). If you are using Public Wi-Fi, a VPN is your first line of defense against data trackers and hackers."

2. Stop Using Simple Passwords

The Problem: Don't try to use the same password for all your accounts or websites that you log into through Google, don't use the same password, because it can be easily found. I'm telling you one thing, so don't make the password you create easy like "12345678" or don't use your name, because it can be found, avoid it now.

The Step to Take: You should switch to using a Password Manager. This tool will generate very strong and different passwords for you for each site, and store them in a secure location. Also, always turn on Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), especially for your banking and important email accounts.

3. Control Cookies and Tracking Systems

What is The Problem? When you visit websites, they secretly store cookies that follow you wherever you go on the internet. This allows advertising companies to directly track your personal interests. Tracking Cookies secretly track you across all the sites you visit on the Internet, and collect information about your interests.

The Step to Take: I would say use a browser that doesn't collect any data and automatically stops tracking (like Brave). Manually clear your cookies every week. Opt out of ads, go to Settings on Google and Facebook, and explicitly stop tracking ads. This is an important task that no one will do for you.

4. Be Cautious of Apps and Excessive Permissions

The Danger: When you download a new app, it asks for permissions that don't make sense. Example: A calculator app that wants to access your location and camera. For example, if you allow that permission, the app will secretly start collecting your data and sending it to foreign servers. It is possible that your data can be sold, such as images, sounds, and quickly identify your movements.

The Step to Take: Always deny unnecessary permissions to an app. Additionally, double-check your device's Privacy Settings to see which apps are secretly using your Camera and Microphone.

5. Secure Your Home Network (Home Network Security)

The Problem: Brother/Sister, let's be honest: Your home internet (Wi-Fi Router) is the main gateway through which all your data passes. Don't assume it's secure, because a hacker from afar can easily enter and track your movements. I strongly recommend that you protect your home internet, because it is a very easy place to attack

The Step to Take: The very first step you should take is to change your Router's password. Make sure to use a strong password that is entirely different from the default one the company set for you. Also, turn on the Firewall and double-check that your Router is active, so that the Firewall can effectively block attacks coming from outside. Remember this: always update your Router's software.

Personal Advice: 3 Tips I Use to Strengthen Your Security

1. Your Email Password is the Frontline

My advice is that your strongest password should be the one you use for your email (Gmail/Outlook). If your email is compromised, all your other passwords and data are at risk. Use a password that is at least 15 characters and numbers that your Password Manager generates for you.

2. Avoid "Quick Links"

Sometimes you may receive messages via Email or WhatsApp encouraging you to click on a quick link (such as: "This key will unlock you! Click here!"). Never click on such links. If in doubt, open your browser directly, and manually type in the website you want. This will protect you from phishing.

3. Secure Your WhatsApp App

I would say that since we are Somalis and use WhatsApp a lot, it is important to turn on Two-Step Verification in the App. This will stop someone from easily accessing your account even if they get your SIM card.

Conclusion: The more you protect it, the safer your data will be

Let’s face it: Protecting your privacy isn’t something that only experts can do; it’s something that can be shared. It’s a personal commitment and a constant effort that we put into ourselves. The more you do it, the safer your data will be. By taking the 5 basic steps, we’ve outlined from VPN, Password Manager, Tracking Prevention, App Security, to Router Security you’ll be in control of your data. I encourage you: If you’re serious about protecting the future of your data, start your security transformation today! Don’t assume that someone else will do it for you are the ultimate defender of your online identity.