Online Privacy & Data Control
Take control of your digital footprint and protect your personal data from unauthorized access and tracking.
Privacy Score Checker
Evaluate your online privacy practices and get a personalized score
Understanding Online Privacy
Online privacy refers to your right to control what information about you is collected, how it's used, and who has access to it. In today's interconnected world, protecting your online privacy is essential to maintaining your security and autonomy.
Why Online Privacy Matters
Personal Security
Protecting your data prevents identity theft, fraud, and other malicious activities.
Financial Protection
Keep your financial information secure and prevent unauthorized transactions.
Reputation Management
Control your online presence and protect your personal and professional reputation.
Freedom of Expression
Privacy enables you to express yourself freely without fear of surveillance or judgment.
Online Privacy Guides
Digital Footprint Overview
Understanding and managing the trail of data you leave behind online.
Manage Your Footprint →How Websites Track You
Understanding the technologies and techniques websites use to monitor your online behavior.
Learn About Tracking →How Data Brokers Collect Your Info
Understanding the data broker industry and how they profit from your personal information.
Understand Data Brokers →Opt-Out Directory
Step-by-step instructions to remove your information from major data brokers and people search sites.
Start Opting Out →Privacy Settings for All Major Devices
Complete privacy configuration guides for Windows, Mac, iPhone, Android, and more.
Configure Devices →Secure Browsing Guide
Essential practices and tools for safe, private web browsing.
Browse Securely →Cookie Tracking Explained
Understanding how cookies track you online and how to control them.
Control Cookies →Essential Privacy Protection Steps
Use a VPN
Encrypt your internet connection and hide your IP address with a reputable Virtual Private Network service.
Privacy-Focused Browser
Switch to browsers that prioritize privacy and block trackers by default.
Review Privacy Settings
Regularly check and adjust privacy settings on social media, apps, and online services.
Use Encrypted Messaging
Choose messaging apps that offer end-to-end encryption for your conversations.
Limit Data Sharing
Be selective about what personal information you share online and with whom.
Use Privacy-Focused Search Engines
Switch to search engines that don't track your queries or build profiles about you.
Block Tracking Cookies
Use browser extensions to block third-party tracking cookies and scripts.
Regular Privacy Audits
Periodically review your online accounts and delete those you no longer use.
Managing Your Digital Footprint
Your digital footprint is the trail of data you leave behind when using the internet. Here's how to manage it:
- Search for yourself regularly to see what information is publicly available
- Request removal of personal information from data broker websites
- Use privacy settings to limit who can see your social media posts
- Think before posting anything online as it may be permanent
- Use separate email addresses for different purposes
- Consider using disposable email addresses for one-time registrations
- Opt out of targeted advertising when possible
Data Rights and Protection Laws
Understanding your rights under data protection laws helps you take control of your personal information:
- Right to Access: You can request copies of your personal data from companies
- Right to Deletion: You can ask companies to delete your personal information
- Right to Correction: You can request corrections to inaccurate data
- Right to Opt-Out: You can refuse to allow the sale of your personal data
- Right to Portability: You can request your data in a transferable format
Social Media Privacy Best Practices
Limit Public Information
Set profiles to private and carefully control who can see your posts and information.
Review App Permissions
Regularly audit third-party apps connected to your social media accounts.
Disable Location Tracking
Turn off location services for social media apps to prevent location tracking.
Be Careful with Personal Details
Avoid sharing sensitive information like your address, phone number, or financial details.
Additional Resources
For tools and checklists to help you protect your online privacy, visit our Tools & Resources page.