Steps you can take to improve privacy

Having said that, here are some tips to make it a little more difficult for others to collect data about you.

To block browser ad trackers:

• Regularly clear all cookies in your browser settings and clear your search history.
• Turn off tracking and microphone permissions in apps and voice assistants (or use them only when you need them).
• Try a browser that offers privacy protection, such as Firefox or Brave.

To limit ad tracking on your smartphone by voice assistants:

• Turn Off Siri Access on Apple iPhones
• Turn off Google Assistant and microphone access
• Android phone should turn off OK Google
• If you must use sound for functionality, remember to disable the option afterwards to limit third-party eavesdropping.

To interrupt other ad tracking on mobile devices:

• Turn off your Bluetooth and location services (or at least use and turn them off afterwards.)
• Use a search engine like DuckDuckGo that doesn’t track your queries, find you, or constantly bug you about cookie permissions.
• Try a VPN for increased anonymity – especially when you’re not at home.
• Turn off apps access to the microphone or cameras, or use sparingly.
• On games and dating apps, look for ‘Alphonso Automated’ and turn off permissions. (About 200 games have this listening setting enabled automatically.)
• If you have an iPhone on iOS, navigate to Settings > Privacy > Ads and toggle on Limit ad tracking.
• If you use Android or another smartphone, apply the ad-tracker privacy setting. Go to Settings > Privacy > Advanced > Advertising and toggle off the opt out of ad personalization.
• On new websites you visit, take a few moments to decline site cookies, by making sure you’ve selected ‘Deny all’ on the permission pop-up.
• To reduce ad targeting, you can find more helpful steps in our blog How to Clean Up Your Digital Footprint.

Steps you can take to improve privacy online

1. Use a virtual private network (VPN): A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, making it difficult for anyone to spy on your online activity.
2. Use strong passwords: Use a unique and strong password for every online account you have. Passwords should contain a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
3. Use two-factor authentication (2FA): 2FA adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts. You can set up 2FA with a mobile app, text message, or email.
4. Update your software and apps regularly: Software updates often include security patches that fix vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers.
5. Use private browsing mode: Most modern web browsers have a private browsing mode that doesn’t save cookies, history, or temporary files. This can help prevent tracking.
6. Be mindful of what you share online: Be cautious of sharing personal information online, especially on social media. This can include your full name, address, date of birth, and other sensitive information.
7. Use ad blockers: Ad blockers can help prevent websites from tracking your online activity and displaying targeted ads.
8. Use a password manager: Password managers can help you create and manage strong passwords for all your online accounts.
9. Use encryption: Use encrypted messaging apps like Signal or Telegram to communicate with others. You can also encrypt your emails using tools like PGP.
10. Disable location tracking: Many apps and websites track your location to provide location-based services or targeted ads. Consider disabling location tracking to protect your privacy.

Written by

WDG Official

Super Web Development LLP (WDG) is a full-service digital agency specialising in SEO, web development, AI automation, and enterprise solutions. Our free SEO tools are used by thousands of businesses worldwide to improve their organic search visibility.