Surfing the internet used to be a simple and easy pastime.
An individual might, for example, use it to check the weather in the morning before heading to work. Now, most people are online for an average of 10 hours a day! (You can check out the article “Most Adults Spend More Time on Their Digital Devices Than They Think” by Knvul Sheikh, if you want to know more shocking facts about our online habits.)
With the increased usage of the internet has come the exploitation of its users. Marketers and websites now try to get as much information as they can while you’re browsing, so that they can create a “profile” of you as a user.
Here is what a website can see about you, even if you’re not actually logged into their site:
SOFTWARE
Operating System: This is sent from your web browser to help show you an appropriate web format.
Web Browser: Marketers can see if you are using Google Chrome, Fire fox, Internet Explorer or another browsing service.
Browser Plugins: Are you using an ad block plugin etc?
HARDWARE
CPU
GPU
Battery (if applicable)
LOCATION
Web-browsers give a “general” location within 30 miles or so.
INTERNET INFO
Your public IP
Your LOCAL IP
Service provider
Download speed
SOCIAL MEDIA INFO
If you’re logged into Facebook, Google, Instagram, Amazon or another social media service.
Using all of this information, marketers can assume your personal interests, wants, and needs.
For instance, they can label you as the type of person who keeps up with technology trends, has a big social media presence, or has out-of-date software. There isn’t much you can do to stop websites from collecting this data, but making yourself aware of what others are seeing may keep you on your toes - especially as personalized ads convince you to spend money, or as website prompt you to give more information.
Anthony has been in the MSP business since before the acronym existed. Managed IT once started as break-fix solutions and some light phone support.
Since then, he has seen the industry flourish into a landscape of platforms, cloud servers, software tools and AI . Tailoring network configurations and software stacks to the specific needs of each business.
In his current role, he focuses on proactive planning, ensuring clients can avoid potential issues altogether. This involves meticulous planning for enhanced business continuity, allowing swift resolution of any unforeseen challenges. What initially began as addressing "fires" through break-fix solutions has evolved into a proactive approach, ensuring that such issues are prevented from arising in the first place.
