The Small Settings That Make a Big Difference
Simple tweaks for a more private, less noisy digital life
You don’t need to delete your accounts or switch apps to protect your privacy.
These 5 setting changes are small — but they go a long way.
1. Turn off ad personalization
Google:
adssettings.google.com → Turn off Ad PersonalizationFacebook/Instagram:
Settings > Ads > Ad Preferences → Turn off tracking from other websites
2. Auto-delete your search history
- Visit myactivity.google.com
- Click Web & App Activity > Auto-delete → Set to 3 months or off
3. Hide lock screen notifications
iPhone:
Settings > Notifications > Show Previews → When Unlocked or NeverAndroid:
Settings > Lock Screen > Notifications → Limit what’s shown
4. Limit location access
iPhone:
Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services → Set apps to “While Using” or “Never”Android:
Settings > Location > App permissions → Adjust per app
5. Remove connected apps
Google:
myaccount.google.com/security → Third-party app accessFacebook:
Settings > Apps & Websites → Remove anything you don’t use
Bonus: Turn off off-site tracking (Meta)
- Visit facebook.com/off_facebook_activity
- Tap Clear History
- Tap Manage Future Activity → Turn off
Final Thought
Small actions like these can:
- Reduce tracking
- Clean up your digital clutter
- Help you feel more in control
No need to panic. Just start here.
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