Taking control of your digital privacy doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with the basics or dive into advanced techniques — choose your level and build your privacy step by step.
Getting Started
Essential steps to protect your digital privacy
Essential steps everyone should take. These foundational practices will dramatically improve your digital privacy with minimal effort.
1
Privacy Browser
Your browser is your gateway to the internet. Use one that blocks trackers, doesn't collect your data, and respects your privacy by default. See browsers →
2
Use a Password Manager
Stop reusing passwords. A password manager generates and securely stores unique passwords for every account. Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible. See password managers →
3
Use a VPN
A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address. Use a privacy-focused VPN that doesn't log your activity. Essential for public WiFi and hiding your browsing from your ISP. See VPNs →
4
Secure Email
Your email contains sensitive information. Switch to an encrypted email provider that can't read your messages and doesn't show you targeted ads based on your emails. See email providers →
5
Private Messaging
Regular SMS and most chat apps can be intercepted. Use end-to-end encrypted messaging to ensure only you and your recipient can read your messages. See messengers →
6
Harden Your Home Network
Change default router passwords and Wi-Fi credentials immediately. Use WPA3 or WPA2 with a strong password. Consider hiding your network name (SSID) and enable your router's firewall.
7
Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Add a second layer of security to all important accounts. Use authenticator apps instead of SMS when possible. This prevents unauthorized access even if your password is compromised.
Ready to take your privacy to the next level? These advanced steps require more technical knowledge but provide significantly stronger protection.
1
Switch to Linux
Windows and macOS collect telemetry and integrate with corporate cloud services. Linux gives you full control over your system. Privacy-focused distributions offer features like amnesic live systems, security through compartmentalization, or anonymous operating systems. For daily use, many user-friendly distributions respect your privacy by default. See Linux distros →
2
Use a Privacy-Focused Phone
Stock Android and iOS constantly send data to Google and Apple. Privacy-focused mobile operating systems remove this tracking while maintaining app compatibility. Look for options that offer sandboxed app stores, enhanced security features, and regular security updates without telemetry. See mobile OS →
3
Use Encrypted DNS
Your ISP can see every domain you visit through DNS queries. Encrypted DNS (DoH/DoT) prevents this surveillance. Privacy-respecting DNS providers offer customizable filtering without logging your queries. For maximum control, you can run your own DNS resolver at home. See DNS providers →
4
Use Hardware Security Keys
Software-based 2FA can be phished or compromised by malware. Hardware security keys provide phishing-resistant authentication using FIDO2/WebAuthn. They work offline, can't be remotely accessed, and prove you have physical possession. Some options are fully open-source or include additional features like password management. See security keys →
5
Enable Full Disk Encryption
If someone gets physical access to your device, they can extract all your data. Full disk encryption protects everything when powered off. Tools exist for creating encrypted containers, encrypting entire drives with plausible deniability, or encrypting files individually for cloud storage. Linux users should enable encryption during installation. See encryption tools →
6
Self-Host Your Services
Cloud services have access to your data. Self-hosting puts you in complete control. You can replace commercial cloud storage, photo services, and smart home platforms with self-hosted alternatives that never share data with third parties. Start with a Raspberry Pi or repurpose an old PC. See self-hosted options →
7
Remove Metadata from Files
Photos and documents contain hidden metadata — GPS location, device info, timestamps, and more. Strip this data before sharing files online. Use tools like ExifTool or MAT2 to clean files automatically.
8
Compartmentalize Your Identities
Use different email addresses, usernames, and browsers for different purposes. Keep work, personal, and sensitive activities separate. This limits the damage if one identity is compromised and makes tracking harder.
Your spending habits reveal a lot about you. Protect your financial privacy to prevent tracking, profiling, and data exploitation.
1
Use Cash for Sensitive Purchases
Going cash-only isn't realistic today, but you can use cash for purchases you'd rather not have tracked — personal items, local services, or anything you want to keep private. No digital trail, no profiling.
2
Learn About Cryptocurrency
Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Cardano use the UTXO model which offers better privacy than account-based blockchains like Ethereum or Solana. Self-custody wallets give you full control without intermediaries or banks tracking your transactions.
3
Use Virtual Card Numbers
Virtual cards let you generate unique card numbers for each merchant. If one gets compromised, your real card stays safe. They also prevent merchants from tracking you across purchases.
4
Avoid Loyalty Programs
Store loyalty cards and reward programs exist to track your purchases and build detailed profiles. The small discounts aren't worth the privacy cost. Pay the full price and keep your data.
5
Choose Privacy-Respecting Banks
Traditional banks share and sell your transaction data. Look for banks with strong privacy policies, or consider credit unions. Avoid linking unnecessary services to your bank account.
6
Audit Your Digital Footprint
Review your subscriptions, online purchases, and platforms you use. Cancel what you don't need — each service has your payment info and usage data. Fewer accounts mean fewer companies tracking you.
7
Limit Financial Apps
Be cautious with budgeting apps, payment services, and fintech products. They often require access to your full transaction history. Use your bank's official app when possible instead of third-party services.