Digital privacy: how to stop websites and apps from tracking your online activity

In an increasingly connected world, digital privacy has become a central concern for many users. Websites and apps constantly collect data about our online activity, from the sites we visit to our shopping preferences. Fortunately, there are measures you can take to protect your privacy and limit this tracking. In this article, we explore how to stop websites and apps from tracking your online activity.

Why does online tracking happen?

Websites and applications track your activity for various purposes, such as:

• Targeted advertising: Show ads relevant to your interests.
• Behavior analysis: Improve the user experience.
• Data sharing: Selling information to third parties.

While some of these purposes may seem harmless, excessive tracking can compromise your privacy and security.

Tips for protecting your digital privacy

1. Use a VPN
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet connection and hides your IP address, making it harder for websites and apps to track your location and activity. Choose a reliable VPN with a no-logs policy.

2. Activate incognito mode
Incognito mode in browsers prevents browsing history and cookies from being saved locally. However, remember that this mode doesn’t make you completely invisible – your internet provider and websites can still track you.

3. Install ad-blocking extensions
Extensions such as uBlock Origin or Privacy Badger block trackers and intrusive ads. These tools help limit the amount of data that websites collect about you.

4. Set cookie permissions
Many websites ask for permission to use cookies. Choose to reject non-essential cookies or use tools such as Cookie AutoDelete to manage cookies automatically.

5. Use a privacy-focused search engine
Search engines like DuckDuckGo or Startpage don’t track your searches or collect personal data, unlike more popular options like Google.

6. Review app permissions
On your smartphone, review the permissions that apps have. Disable access to unnecessary data, such as location, contacts or microphone.

7. Update software and applications
Keep your operating system, browser and applications up to date. Updates often include security patches that protect against vulnerabilities.

8. Use two-factor authentication (2FA)
2FA adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts, making unauthorized access more difficult.

9. Avoid public Wi-Fi networks
Public Wi-Fi networks are often insecure and can be used to intercept your data. If you need to use one, connect via a VPN.

10. Read privacy policies
It can be tiring, but reading the privacy policies of websites and apps helps you understand how your data is used and shared.

Conclusion

Protecting your digital privacy requires some attention and effort, but the rewards are worth it. By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the tracking of your online activity and browse with greater security and peace of mind.

Remember: privacy is a right, not a privilege. Take control of your data and ensure that your online experience is safe and respectful of your privacy.