DATA SAFETY: Balancing privacy, control while online

We live in a world where privacy feels like both a right and a luxury. On one hand, we want to stay anonymous, to control what others know about us. But on the other hand, we willingly share so much of our lives online, sometimes without even realising it.

This contradiction makes me wonder: Are we really in control of our own information, or are we just playing along in a system where privacy is more illusion than reality?

Even as we try to protect our personal data, we often lose control of it. Governments and tech companies collect more information than we might expect, not necessarily to stop us from using technology but to monitor and influence it.

Social media giants face pressure to share user data with governments, including things like location. We may not see this data but the people in power do.

Here in Kenya, this issue feels especially close to home. The truth is, absolute privacy does not exist. If you want to open a bank account, apply for a government service or even get a SIM card, you have to give up some personal information. Sure you could choose to opt out, but at what cost? Avoiding these systems means missing out on essential services, which you cannot do without.

Then there’s the issue of credibility. Even if you have something important to say, people may not take you seriously if they do not know who you are. We naturally trust content from people we can identify with. Online platforms increasingly prioritise verified accounts, making it harder for anonymous voices to be heard. So, is staying anonymous really worth it?

At the end of the day, we are all making trade-offs. If you want to protect your privacy, you might sacrifice credibility and access to important services. If you want recognition and influence, you will likely have to give up some control over your personal data. The real question is, “Are we making these choices freely, or are we just following the rules of a game that has already been decided for us?”

This all comes down to data safety and what measures we can put in place despite the vulnerabilities. First, being mindful of the information you share online, think twice before posting personal details, even on seemingly harmless platforms. Using privacy-focused tools, such as encrypted messaging apps and virtual private networks (VPNs), can add an extra layer of protection against prying eyes.

Make it a habit to regularly review privacy settings on social media and other digital services to maintain better control over who has access to your information. It is also wise to limit the use of public WiFi networks and to enable multi-factor authentication on sensitive accounts to reduce the risk of unauthorised access.

 

Ezekiel Mureithi is the head of marketing and communications at Crawford International School