Five Tips to Keep Your Browsing History Private and Secure

Every search and website visit leaves a digital footprint that companies, advertisers, and even cybercriminals can track. Data collection fuels targeted advertising and, in some cases, exposes you to security risks.

While governments and tech giants debate privacy laws, you have to take control of your own browsing habits. The good news is that with a few adjustments, you can limit what others know about your online activity.

Use Private Browsing Modes to Avoid Tracking

While incognito or private browsing prevents your browser from storing history and cookies, it doesn’t hide your activity from websites or network administrators. That means if you’re using a shared Wi-Fi connection, someone monitoring the network can still see what you're doing.

However, private modes can be useful for specific situations. If you’re logging into an account on someone else’s computer or researching sensitive topics, they stop your searches and credentials from being saved locally.

Just remember that private mode doesn’t prevent external tracking – websites can still identify you through your IP address and other browser data.

Regularly Clear Your Browser History and Cookies

Even if you’re not sharing your device, clearing your history and cookies can prevent websites following you across the internet.

Every time you visit a site, it stores small files on your device that remember your preferences, login details, and even the items you viewed while shopping. While this can be convenient, it also allows companies to build detailed profiles about you.

You can manually delete cookies and history through your browser’s settings, or set it to automatically clear them when you close it down. Many also let you block third-party cookies, which prevents advertisers tracking you from site to site.

Protect Your Data With a Trusted Online VPN

Your internet service provider (ISP) logs every site you visit unless you take steps to mask your activity.

A virtual private network (VPN) encrypts your connection, making it nearly impossible for outsiders to see what you’re doing online. VPN services reroute your internet traffic through secure servers, hiding your real location and IP address.

Look for a reputable, paid VPN service that explicitly states it doesn’t keep logs of your activity. If you're using public Wi-Fi or accessing region-restricted content, a VPN adds an extra layer of security that keeps your data safe from prying eyes.

Adjust Browser Privacy Settings for Better Control

Most web browsers track user behavior by default, but you can limit what they collect by tweaking the settings. Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari all offer privacy options that let you restrict data collection and block trackers.

Start by disabling third-party cookies and adjusting permissions for location tracking, microphone access, and camera usage. Some browsers include built-in tools that block invasive ads and scripts.

Protect Your Personal Information While Using Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi networks at airports and coffee shops are a hacker’s playground. These connections are often unsecured, making it easy for cybercriminals to intercept your data.

If you log into personal accounts or make financial transactions on public networks, you risk exposing sensitive information to anyone snooping on the network.

If you must use public Wi-Fi, avoid accessing banking or email accounts without a VPN. Using your phone’s mobile hotspot is a much safer alternative when handling sensitive information.