So what do we do if we ever get to the stage where internet is blocked in Nigeria?
Use a VPN
A virtual private network (VPN) gives you online privacy and anonymity by creating a private network from a public internet connection.
Surfing the web or transacting on an unsecured Wi-Fi network, or using various social mediums means you could be exposing your private information and browsing habits. VPNs mask your internet protocol (IP) address so your online actions are virtually untraceable.
However, VPNs can differ from region to region, and it is important to know the safety and security of each specific network you choose to use.
In Nigeria, we have VPNs like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, CyberGhost, IPVanish and others. Please confirm their authenticity and security level before using any of them. Ensure it is also right for your device.
The power of the internet and social media is not new to Nigerian politicians, after all, in 2019, the Nigerian government tried to introduce the social media bill under the guise of curbing fake news. With the ongoing protest, the power of social media is, more than ever before, so glaring and there could arise an urgent need to block the internet or pass the bill.
Protecting yourself digitally
Many of us do not pay attention to our cybersecurity. As you make use of the internet, you need to consider your safety and security and protect your identity.
It starts with the easy things: ensure that all the sites you are using are delivered over HTTPS. This allows you to access the original site and not an altered version of it. You can install the HTTPS Everywhere extension in your browser.
Ensure you have an anti-virus software. This helps you remove malicious software from your laptop.
If you have not been clearing your browser’s cache, now is the time to put it into consideration. Never underestimate how much your browser’s cache knows about you. Your saved cookies, saved searches, and Web history could reveal your home address, family information, and other personal data.
Try to delete browser cookies and clear your browser history on a regular basis to protect that information that may be lurking in your web history.
Know where to seek help
What do they say about humans needing humans? If you engage in sharing sensitive information, especially the ones powers that be wouldn’t want you to share, it is important to know where to seek help when you are in trouble. For example, Access Now, is a site that runs a 24-hour digital security helpline. They advise users during emergencies, engage in global advocacies, bring the plight of arrested internet users to light and offer legal representation.
Although we hope that in Nigeria, we’ll never get to that stage where our online voices will be silenced, it is important to still ensure that as we carry out our day-to-day activities online, we protect ourselves in the process. Don’t get carried away.
(Culled from BellaNaija)
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