Tools That Keep Your Data Safe In A Fast Moving World

Originally Published: January 6, 2026

Everything is connected nowadays. No matter where you go, what devices you use, it’s easier and easier to get online to access the tools and data you need, whether it’s for working flexibly from anywhere or simply for daily use. However, with that connectivity also comes an extra degree of digital risk. Thankfully, there are tools that can help you manage that risk, whether you’re on the road, at a cafe, or even using a device that’s not your own.

Virtual Private Networks

One of the most important pillars of maintaining your privacy online is making sure that no one is able to glean what you’re doing online. There are a lot of watchful eyes out there, including those on public or semi-public networks (such as at cafes, airports, and other businesses) that could be eavesdropping on your connection. A virtual private network (or VPN) encrypts your internet traffic and reroutes it through a secure server, making it much harder for any would-be attackers to launch “man-in-the-middle” attacks, regardless of what network you’re on.

Portable Browsers

If you’re someone who frequently has to use other devices, such as leased laptops or devices at libraries, then you can make sure that you’re able to maintain a consistent browsing history, saving all of your favorite sites, while also preventing those devices from logging that history. If you download Firefox Portable, you can keep your bookmarks, passwords, extensions, and browsing history, and avoid leaving personal data behind on systems that other people might use after you. You just need to add the browser executable to a USB drive, and you can easily use it with any device.

Password Managers

The days of having to write your password down on pieces of paper, which anyone could potentially find, are long gone. Instead, more people are using password managers like NordPass, which generate, store, and autofill passwords. All that you have to do is remember one passcode or PIN that can be used to unlock the password manager. These managers encrypt your credentials and can even alert you if there’s been a breach involving any of the websites or apps that you have saved passwords for, allowing you to quickly switch them up and protect your accounts.

Encryption Tools

Encrypting your logins and passwords, as well as the data you send and receive through the internet, can offer you a lot of protection. However, there are also tools that can help you encrypt the data on your hard drive. Full-disk encryption can make sure that even if your laptop, phone, or hard drive were stolen, the thieves wouldn’t be able to access your data. You can also use file-level encryption, which can encrypt specific files if you want to be more picky about which data you intend to offer that added level of protection to.

Your data is one of the most valuable assets you have, and could do a lot of harm if it gets into the wrong hands. Use the tips above to make sure that it doesn’t happen to you.

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