Risks of not hiding your IP
Every time you navigate the Internet, your IP address is visible to the websites you visit, the services you use and even for hackers. Through this address, it is possible to identify your geographical location, the type of device you use and even your Internet service provider. This can be a risk to your privacy for several reasons:
- Custom tracking and advertising: Many companies use your IP address to track your activity online and show you personalized ads.
- Geolocation: Websites can know your geographical location through your IP and do what they want with it.
- Security risks: Hackers can use your IP address to track your activities and launch cyber attacks. They could also access your devices.
- Unauthorized access: Some platforms or services restrict access to certain regions or countries, so your IP address could be used to identify and block your access to these platforms. This happens with Movistar+, Dazn or Netflix, among others.
There are several ways to hide your IP address and navigate online more safely with your Mac. Next, we detail some of the best practices to protect your online privacy:
Use a virtual private network (VPN)
A VPN is one of the most effective tools to hide your IP address. When you connect to a VPN, your Internet traffic is redirected through a private network server, which hides your real IP and assigns an IP address of the server. This means that, although the websites you visit can see the IP of the VPN server, they will not be able to track your real address. It is one of the options that are most used today.
In addition to protecting your IP, a VPN figure your connection, which improves security by making your data traffic illegible for third parties, including hackers. Some VPN even offer additional functions, such as advertisement blocking or malware protection.
There are many options, but we recommend the following VPN apps:
Nordvpn It is the most famous application in terms of VPN services. It has servers in multiple countries and is known for its speed and the security it offers. You can access your services from this link.
Another of the highest quality VPN services and better price that you can try is Cyberghost (Download it from here). It has a clear approach to privacy and simplicity of use. In addition, it has a large number of servers in more than 100 countries, which guarantees rapid and stable connections.
On the other hand, we can recommend you Surfsharkthat you can enjoy by clicking on this link, or Expressvpn, from here.
Use proxies
A proxy is another method to hide your IP address. Unlike a VPN, a proxy works as an intermediary between your device and the websites you visit. Although a proxy can hide your IP and allow you to access geographically blocked content, do not figure your connection as a VPN. Therefore, it is Less sure than a VPNbut it is still a useful option for those who want an additional layer of privacy.
To use a proxy in macOS, go to “system settings”> “network”, select the network you are using and click “Details.” Then, in the “Proxies” tab, marks the corresponding option (for example, “Local Network Internet protocol (HTTP)”) and enter the address and the port provided by your Proxy service. Once configured, your traffic will be redirected through the proxy server, hiding your IP and allowing you to navigate more privately.
To do this, you must have a proxy service that you can pay as if it were one more subscription.
Deactivates geolocation
Many web pages use geolocation to provide you with relevant content according to your location. However, these functions can compromise your privacy, since they allow to track your real location.
To protect you, it is important Disable geolocation On your device. To do this, he sees “system settings”> “privacy and security.” In “location”, you can deactivate it.
Use the Tor browser
Tor is another popular method to hide your IP and navigate anonymously. Unlike a VPN, you find your traffic through a network of decentralized nodes worldwide, which makes it extremely difficult to track your activity. In addition, Tor hides your IP and allows to navigate more privately without websites can identify your location.
However, it is important to keep in mind that Tor can be slower than other options, since your traffic goes through several nodes before reaching its final destination.
Keep your software and updated devices
Although the aforementioned tools are essential to protect your IP, maintaining your updated software and devices is equally crucial. Software device and developer manufacturers launch regular updates to correct safety vulnerabilities. If you do not update your system, you can leave your device exposed to attacks that will take advantage of security gaps.
Be sure to update both your operating system and the applications and browsers that you use frequently to ensure that your device is protected against the latest threats.
Beware of public and free Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi networks, such as those that we can see coffee shops, airports or shopping centers, are an easy target for hackers. These networks are usually vulnerable and, being open to any user, allow cybercounts to intercept unimportant connections to access your personal data. If you connect to one of these networks, Your IP address is exposedwhich makes it easier for attackers to steal sensitive information such as passwords, card numbers or even bank data.
To protect your privacy and keep your IP safe, the ideal is to avoid the use of public Wi-Fi networks whenever possible. If you have no other option and you must connect to them, be sure to use a VPN that encrypts your connection and hide your IP address, adding an extra safety layer to possible threats.
