In simple terms, an Internet Protocol Address, or IP Address, is a unique numerical identifier that is used to recognize all digital devices connected to the Internet. All of your devices like mobile phones, computers, routers, printers, and gaming consoles everything use an IP address to identify you and communicate with each other on a network.
Almost every digital device has a unique IP address for connecting to the Internet and sharing information with other devices. When you attempt to access a website on the Internet, the server of that website needs to understand that the request has come from a specific device and where to send the information next.
Also, when you send an email from your mobile or access a website, your mobile’s IP address is not displayed in the context of internet communication. In this case, your internet service provider provides communication to the internet through the public IP address assigned to your home router.
Maybe you are now imagining that a hacker can harm you by knowing your IP address only. According to some online security specialists, your IP address is the first thing that is the visible element to others. As an Internet user, it is your main identity on the Internet. An IP is the first option to identify yourself on the Internet.
How much data can be revealed by your IP address? is discussed below:
An IP address is a way to find out your GEO
An IP address is the fundamental for the identity of an Internet user. It carries your identity on the network. So as a basic identity element, it will expose your location like a city or region and, country also! An IP address exposes some more unique information like your ISP and hostname.
But it depends on the IP details explorer tool or software. Some online IP information tools are much more powerful. As a result, they can provide more sensitive information about you and your computer even the browser and OS too!
However, an IP address cannot share your exact location with snoopers. But this information can still be used to track your online activity, create a digital profile, and other information, including IP location.
Internet users of a particular country or region are blocked by IP addresses to restrict access to certain websites or services, also. The IP address is the first thing to know about a user online. That can give a person an idea of a user’s geolocation and online activity, which helps build a person’s digital profile.
Advertisers can Optimize Their Ads for You
By exploring and exposing your IP address the advertisers can optimize their ads for you. Because your IP address is a footprint for your online searches, activities, and your interests.
Your every activity online is almost recorded as cookies with your IP address. Some ad media collect these kinds of data about your searches and interests. And, they are making an ad implement profile under your IP. The next time you are on the Internet, they use the profile to match the perfect ad implementation.
Your IP Address can Reveal your Browsing History
Your ISP can see your online activity like the services you are using and the websites you are browsing. Accessing user metadata is a simple task for any ISP. But if an authorized authority like a Government authority wants to see your metadata from your ISP. The ISP will be obliged to provide your metadata like Geo, Browsing Log, etc.
Sometimes some IPs can’t detect your exact location like they can detect your State or District but are unable to find your Street, Office, or Home address.
Conclusion
So, when you are using the Internet, it is important thing that keeps your IP address more secure. According to technology experts, there is no way to be anonymous on the Internet without hiding the IP address.
Suppose you are searching on the web, there may be a lot of sensitive information like health-related data, and other personal details such as Bank details. If you do not hide your IP address, this information may be shared with third parties like advertisers, and other platforms. And you would never want to share such highly personal information with anyone. For privacy, security, and various other reasons, it is advisable to hide your IP address on the Internet, Immediately.