There are some easy steps you can take to block at least some of this data flow from Microsoft, Apple, Facebook, Amazon, Google and more.
Windows sends megabytes of your data back to Microsoft daily, calling it 'telemetry.' You can restrict most of this with a small free program that is pretty easy to use. After each major Windows update, you'll need to run the program again to turn off the settings Windows update turns back on.
https://www.oo-software.com/en/shutup10
Here's a handy guide on restricting data transfer to several of the big tech companies:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/the-switch/wp/2018/06/01/hands-off-my-data-15-default-privacy-settings-you-should-change-right-now/?utm_term=.f739bb8822ed
uBlock Origin (not uBlock.org) is an add-on I recommend for browsers and phones to stop many methods of tracking. It also blocks some ads.
https://github.com/gorhill/uBlock
Read how Facebook and other apps seem to listen to casual conversations without your knowledge and approval (such as without saying an agreed upon command like "OK Google" or "Hey Alexa/Siri"). See the Washington Post article linked above on how to disable the voice command, so they won't be listening, and of course you can start them with a press of a button instead to use their services.
https://www.vice.com/en_uk/article/wjbzzy/your-phone-is-listening-and-its-not-paranoia
Try a VPN to keep your phone company and apps/programs from much of your data. Chose a reputable U.S.-based brand and PAY for it--the free ones often sell your data in spite of promising the opposite because how would they make money otherwise.
On phones, go to your settings for apps and turn off permissions to use (without limit) your microphone, camera, contacts, phone, text access, etc for each app that you don't want to have such access. Note that if you turn off microphone access to your camera, it will record silent video, and your map won't work without GPS on, as examples.
It's a good idea also to put tape over the camera and microphones of TVs and laptops if you aren't using their built-in cameras and microphones. Even Bill Gates has been seen doing that!
Change any default passwords on smart TVs, security cameras, conference call systems, etc. so they can't as easily be hacked to become monitors for the lawless. Enable two-factor authentication when possible for greater security.
As always, change passwords frequently and have up to date antivirus programs and apps on all your devices.
Contact us to help lock-down your computers and phones.
On phones, go to your settings for apps and turn off permissions to use (without limit) your microphone, camera, contacts, phone, text access, etc for each app that you don't want to have such access. Note that if you turn off microphone access to your camera, it will record silent video, and your map won't work without GPS on, as examples.
It's a good idea also to put tape over the camera and microphones of TVs and laptops if you aren't using their built-in cameras and microphones. Even Bill Gates has been seen doing that!
Change any default passwords on smart TVs, security cameras, conference call systems, etc. so they can't as easily be hacked to become monitors for the lawless. Enable two-factor authentication when possible for greater security.
As always, change passwords frequently and have up to date antivirus programs and apps on all your devices.
Contact us to help lock-down your computers and phones.
