10 Simple Ways to Protect Your Privacy Online
Practical, everyday habits that reduce how much personal information you leak to websites, apps and advertisers.
Privacy is not about having something to hide. It is about deciding who gets to know what about you. These habits take minutes to adopt and make a real difference.
1. Keep your main phone number private
Give your real number only to people and services you trust. For one-off sign-ups and tests, a temporary number protects you from spam and data leaks.
2. Use a password manager
Unique passwords for every site mean one breach cannot unlock the rest of your life.
3. Turn on app-based two-factor authentication
Authenticator apps are harder to intercept than SMS codes.
4. Use email aliases
Many email providers let you create aliases so you can see who sells your address and switch it off.
5. Review app permissions
Does a flashlight app really need your contacts or location? Revoke anything unnecessary.
6. Update everything
Software updates close security holes attackers actively exploit.
7. Be careful on public Wi-Fi
Avoid logging into sensitive accounts on open networks, or use a trusted VPN.
8. Limit what you share on social media
Birthdays, pet names and school names are common security-question answers.
9. Check privacy settings on new accounts
Defaults are often designed for sharing, not protecting.
10. Delete accounts you no longer use
Every dormant account is a potential leak. Close them when you are done.
More guides
- What Is a Virtual Phone Number?
- How OTP Verification Works
- Why Your OTP Is Not Coming (and What to Try)
- Testing SMS Verification as a Developer