Final answer:
Personal privacy is compromised by cybercrimes, surveillance, and unauthorized data usage, with risks of identity theft and government intrusion. Maximizing privacy includes being informed, cautious online, and proactive with data protection measures. Regularly updating security settings and being mindful of social media posts are important steps.
Step-by-step explanation:
Threats to Personal Privacy
Online privacy is threatened by various factors enabled by computers and the Internet. These threats include cybercrimes such as identity theft, unauthorized surveillance by different entities, and the misuse of personal data for marketing or other invasive purposes. For instance, large-scale data breaches, as seen with companies like Target and JP Morgan, have made millions vulnerable to identity theft. Moreover, government agencies assert their need to access individual data for national security, challenging the right to private digital communications and invoking tensions between privacy rights and governmental authority.
Maximizing Online Privacy
Individuals can take several actions to maximize their privacy online. Becoming familiar with privacy rights, reading privacy policies, limiting personal information shared online, using strong, unique passwords, and being cautious of suspicious links or requests can help protect personal data. Additionally, staying informed about one's digital footprint and understanding the use of personal data by platforms and businesses are crucial for maintaining control over online privacy.
Key Privacy Concerns and Actions
Understanding and executing privacy settings.
Regularly updating software to protect against security vulnerabilities.
Exercising caution with the information shared on social media platforms.