Protecting your online privacy
The internet has become an integral part of our daily lives. However, we often overlook the tracking techniques used by tech giants like Google.
These companies utilize sophisticated tracking tools to monitor our online behavior, gather data and target us with personalized advertisements. Google, in particular, is renowned for its tracking capabilities.
Through services like Google Analytics, Google Ads, and the presence of its trackers on websites, the tech giant collects information about users’ browsing habits, interests and demographics. This data is used to create detailed profiles for targeted advertising, influencing our online experiences without our explicit consent.
You can’t easily turn off all tracking, but there are settings and tools to consider:
Browser privacy settings: Most web browsers offer privacy settings that allow users to control how their data is tracked and shared. Explore the privacy options in your browser and adjust them to your preferences. Features such as disabling third-party cookies and blocking trackers can significantly reduce your exposure to online tracking. However, have at least a basic understanding of any settings before you change them. Also, realize changing settings may affect your browsing and functionality.
Use privacy-focused search engines: Consider using alternative search engines that prioritize user privacy, such as DuckDuckGo.com. Unlike Google, these search engines don’t track your searches or store your personal information.
Use a privacy-focused browser: Even if you use a search engine that’s privacy-focused (such as DuckDuckGo) the web browser itself (such as Google Chrome), may doing some type of tracking or data collection. Consider a privacy-focused web browser too, such as the DuckDuckGo browser (duckduckgo.com/app) or
Brave Browser (brave. com/download).
Install ad and tracker blockers: For web browsers that don’t include built-in AD or tracking blocking (such as Google Chrome), consider a browser extension that gives you some protection. Malwarebytes Browser Guard (www. malwarebytes.com/ browserguard) blocks junk and scams in addition to ADs and trackers.
Opt out of targeted advertising: Many advertising networks offer optout mechanisms that allow users to disable targeted advertising. Visit the AD settings page for Google (myadcenter.google.com) and other advertising platforms.