Anonymity on the internet: Is it truly possible to remain invisible?

In the era of digital revolution, the issue of online anonymity becomes increasingly pressing. With the rising number of scandals involving personal data leaks, user monitoring, and targeted ads, many question whether it is possible to remain truly invisible on the internet. In the following paragraphs, we will explore the world of digital privacy and unveil strategies that can help protect your online identity.

What is internet anonymity?

Essentially, it is a state wherein an individual uses online services without having their real identity linked to their digital activities. It's like wearing an invisible cloak in the world of ones and zeroes.

The goal is to remain unidentifiable to other users, service providers, and potential malicious entities. Practically, this can mean various things, from hiding your IP address to using encrypted communication channels or creating online personas with pseudonyms. Unfortunately, with technological advancements, maintaining anonymity is becoming increasingly challenging.

What technologies ensure anonymity?

VPN (Virtual Private Network)

A VPN, or virtual private network, is a technology that allows users to securely and anonymously access the internet. Essentially, it creates a secure channel between the user's device (such as a computer, mobile phone, or tablet) and a target server on the internet.

This channel is encrypted, meaning that the data passing through it is protected from third parties, including internet service providers (ISPs), government agencies, and cyber attackers.

How does a VPN work?

During a regular internet connection, the user connects to the internet provider (ISP), who then links them to the desired website or online service. The user's real IP address is visible in the process, thus their location and internet activity can be monitored.

A VPN changes this process so that the user connects through a VPN server, which acts as an intermediary. Once the device connects to the VPN server, all data is encrypted, and the user's IP address is replaced with the VPN server's IP address.

Tor (The Onion Router)

Tor is a free-to-use software and open network that enables anonymous internet browsing. It works by redirecting the user's internet traffic through several encrypted nodes (servers) scattered around the world.

The name ‘Onion’ refers to the layered structure of encryption used by Tor. Data is encrypted several times and then passed through various nodes in the network. Each node removes one layer of encryption and forwards the data to the next node until it reaches the target server. This entire process makes it impossible to trace back the original sender's IP address.

Encrypted communication

The cornerstone of maintaining anonymity is encrypted communication. The principle is simple yet ingenious – your message is converted into code that only an authorized recipient can decipher. It’s like sending a letter written in secret code that only your trusted friend knows.

Applications like Signal, WhatsApp, or Telegram have mastered this technology. They all use what is known as end-to-end encryption (E2E), where even the service provider does not have the key to your conversations.

But encryption is not just about chat applications. Your email communication can also be secured using services like ProtonMail or Tutanota. Both ensure that your digital correspondence remains private from dispatch to delivery.

However, even this protection has its limits. Both communication sides need to use the same encrypted tool for the encryption to be fully functional. Moreover, even when using an encrypted app, so-called metadata (information about the time sent, recipient, message length) often remain accessible to service providers or other third parties.

Fake accounts

Using fake accounts is another way to maintain anonymity on the internet. In this case, instead of a real name, a fictional pseudonym or nickname is used. Fake accounts are especially popular on social media, forums, online games, or when commenting on various websites.

This method of cover, however, does not guarantee complete anonymity. Even if you're not using your real name, there are ways, for example, for government entities, to trace your identity. Most social networks have no issue providing information about your account when requested.

Is internet anonymity truly possible?

Even though the aforementioned methods can help you hide parts of your identity, absolute anonymity is difficult to achieve. Modern technologies can capture even the slightest traces left by every user.

For instance, every computer or mobile device creates a unique digital fingerprint. This fingerprint takes the form of specific information about the device, like the operating system, installed plugins, and browser.

This way, websites can identify individual users even if they're hiding their IP addresses. Another problem is the human factor. Some websites try to obtain sensitive information directly from the user through manipulative techniques, bypassing most measures.

Many websites and advertising companies also use cookies and other tracking mechanisms to monitor user behavior across different pages. While it’s possible to block cookies, many sites use advanced tracking techniques that are much harder to detect and stop.

Tips to better protect your anonymity online

Every action on the internet leaves traces that can be easily tracked. Yet, there are ways to better protect your anonymity and minimize the amount of information circulating about you online.

1. Use a VPN

A VPN is one of the most effective tools for protecting your online identity. However, be cautious to choose a trustworthy provider that assures you they won't collect your data —such as ProtonVPN or NordVPN.

2. Encrypt your communication

Use encrypted communication applications like Signal or Telegram. These tools rely on end-to-end encryption, ensuring that only you and the recipient can read your messages. This way, the content of your communication remains hidden from prying eyes of service providers and potential hackers.

3. Block tracking cookies and trackers

Block tracking cookies and trackers using browser extensions like uBlock Origin or Privacy Badger. Opt for browsers with privacy protection, such as Brave, which offers advanced tracking protection options.

4. Consider using pseudonyms

Use pseudonyms instead of your actual name when creating accounts on social media or discussion forums. This way, you separate your online activities from your real identity, avoiding problems in both personal life and work.

5. Regularly clean your devices

Regularly clean your devices of browsing history, cookies, and cache using tools like CCleaner. This removes the remnants of your digital footprint.

6. Update and secure your devices

Regularly update your devices and software to fix security flaws. Also, use strong passwords and two-factor authentication wherever possible.

7. Minimize sharing personal information

Be cautious when sharing your personal data online, whether it's social networks or shopping platforms. The less information you share publicly, the harder it is to track or identify you. Also, consider setting privacy settings on social media to prevent unknown individuals from accessing your profile.