5 Important Steps to Enhance Your Privacy in 2021

Here's how to improve your online privacy in a few easy steps.

5 Important Steps to Enhance Your Privacy in 2021
5 Important Steps to Enhance Your Privacy in 2021 | Image credits: Real simple

Contrary to popular assumptions, there is something you can do to preserve your privacy when you are online. There are a few easy steps you can do to dramatically limit the amount of internet tracking you get.

1. Set your privacy options
Configure your devices' privacy settings to the highest level. Make sure to adjust the location settings for each app individually so your location history does not leak to unwanted places. Another way to earn some bonus points is to take a look at the apps you have installed. To reduce the likelihood of your personal data being shared in the background, get rid of unused passwords.

2. Update your software
The software on your devices may have security holes or settings that put your personal information at risk. Have your devices and apps update automatically. This will ensure you have the most up-to-date and secure versions available.

3. Download and install DuckDuckGo on all your devices
When you download this add-on, you can block trackers, search privately, encrypt, and protect your privacy in all your browsing activities.

4. Use a password manager
Privacy and security are two different things, but your privacy is at risk if your accounts are not secured. Have you ever had a password that was used on more than one website? If so, your privacy is at risk of a data leak. The solution is simple: use passwords with unique passwords for each website you log into. If you use a password manager, this is not as difficult as it might seem. Passwords are automatically created and stored for you by password managers. Many browsers have this feature, or you can use one of several programs like LastPass, Dashlane, or 1Password that have cross-browser capabilities.

5. Set up two-factor authentication
Two-factor authentication (or multi-step login) is when you have to enter a verification code in addition to your password when logging into different websites. If possible, you should set up two-factor authentication (2FA) for your most important accounts (email, financial, etc.). To see if any major websites offer two-factor authentication, visit twofactorauth.org. There you will also find a direct link to the required documentation pages.