Protecting your privacy in a digital world

When you visit a website, you’ve probably noticed a pop-up asking you to accept cookies. It might seem like a small thing, but those cookies are tiny files that collect information about you. Some cookies are helpful, like remembering what’s in your shopping basket or your preferred language. Others, however, track your activity across the internet, gathering data on what you click, where you go, and how long you spend on each page. These tracking cookies are usually used for advertising, allowing companies to show you adverts they think will interest you based on your online behaviour.

The problem is, many websites don’t offer you a genuine choice when it comes to cookies. They often make it incredibly easy to click a big “Accept All” button while hiding the option to decline or manage cookies in the fine print. Sometimes, there’s no clear way to say no at all. Most people will understandably just click “Accept All” to get rid of the pop-up and continue using the site. This tactic takes advantage of the fact that most users won’t spend time looking for a way to reject non-essential cookies.

In countries like Nigeria, where more people are increasingly going online for everything, from shopping to banking, this issue is becoming more serious. With companies collecting large amounts of data from people who may not fully understand what they are agreeing to, the risk of privacy violations is growing. Many users might not realise that by clicking “Accept All”, they’re allowing their personal information to be tracked, sold, or used for targeted advertising. This lack of transparency can lead to issues like identity theft, being bombarded by unwanted adverts, or even having personal data sold to third parties without consent.

What’s worrying is that many companies seem to prioritise convenience and their own interests over the privacy rights of individuals. Rather than giving users a clear and simple choice, they often push for blanket acceptance of all cookies. This practice doesn’t just undermine the idea of informed consent—it can also lead to potential misuse of data. In countries like Nigeria, where digital literacy is still developing, people may not fully understand the long-term consequences of giving away their personal data without proper protection. 

Respecting the rights of consumers should be at the heart of how companies handle personal information. The best approach to cookie consent is one that puts the user in control. Websites should explain clearly what different types of cookies do, and offer a straightforward way for people to accept or reject them. There should be no hidden options, and it should never be difficult to say no. Companies need to ask themselves if they truly need to collect so much data, and whether they can deliver their services without intruding on the privacy of their users. If they can operate without tracking every action of their visitors, they should.

As users, we should also take a moment to consider what we are agreeing to when we click “Accept All.” If you can, look for the option to reject unnecessary cookies or manage your preferences. It might take a little more time, but it’s important to protect your privacy and limit the amount of data being collected about you.

In the end, it’s not just about cookies—it’s about creating an internet where people have control over their own information. We have the right to decide how our data is used, and companies should respect that. Those that do will earn the trust and loyalty of their users, while those that push for quick, blanket acceptance of cookies without proper choice will lose it. In Nigeria and around the world, it’s time to demand that businesses prioritise transparency and respect for privacy.

Whether you’re 4 years old or 80, your privacy matters. Companies need to recognise that and provide simple, honest ways for us to protect our personal information online. By doing so, they not only respect our rights but also create a safer, more trustworthy digital world for everyone.

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