How to Protect Your Privacy Online in 2026

The internet knows more about you than your closest friends. Every click, search, and sign-up leaves a digital footprint. But you can take back control.

The State of Online Privacy

• 70% of websites track your behavior across the internet
• Data brokers have information on over 300 million people
• Email addresses are the primary identifier used to link your activities

7 Essential Privacy Tips

1. Use Temporary Email for Sign-ups

Every time you give a website your email, you’re giving them a key to your digital identity. Use disposable email addresses for:

• Newsletter sign-ups
• Free trial registrations
• One-time downloads
• Forum accounts

2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Protect your important accounts with an extra layer of security. Use authenticator apps instead of SMS when possible.

3. Use a Password Manager

Never reuse passwords. A password manager creates and stores unique, complex passwords for every account.

4. Browse with a VPN

A Virtual Private Network encrypts your internet connection and hides your IP address from websites and your ISP.

5. Review App Permissions

Check which apps have access to your camera, microphone, location, and contacts. Remove permissions you don’t need.

6. Use Privacy-Focused Browsers

Consider browsers like Brave or Firefox with enhanced tracking protection. Or use browser extensions that block trackers.

7. Regularly Audit Your Accounts

• Delete unused accounts
• Review connected apps and services
• Check for data breaches with services like HaveIBeenPwned

The Email Problem

Your email address is the skeleton key to your online identity. It’s used to:

• Verify your identity
• Reset passwords
• Link accounts together
• Build advertising profiles

Solution: Use different emails for different purposes:

• Primary email: Banking, important accounts
• Secondary email: Shopping, subscriptions
• Temporary email: Everything else

Take Action Today

Privacy isn’t about having something to hide. It’s about having the right to choose what you share.

Start with one small step: Get a temporary email address →