5 simple tech tips to improve digital privacy

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Apps often request access to your camera, microphone, contacts, photos and location, even when it's not necessary. Limiting these permissions reduces background data collection.

iPhone

Android

Location tracking can reveal where you live, work, shop and travel.

iPhone

Android

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone's manufacturer

iPhone

Android

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone's manufacturer

App tracking allows advertisers to follow your activity across multiple apps.

iPhone

Android

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone's manufacturer

This removes the identifier apps use to track you for targeted ads and replaces it with a fresh ID that isn't linked to your previous activity.

Some apps continue running and collecting data even when you're not actively using them.

iPhone

Android

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone's manufacturer

A password manager reduces the need to store logins inside apps, which can limit unnecessary permissions and data collection.

Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2026 at Cyberguy.com.

Protecting your privacy doesn't have to be complicated. By reducing app permissions, limiting location access, controlling photo sharing, turning off app tracking and restricting background activity, you can significantly reduce how much personal data your phone shares. A few simple setting changes can go a long way in protecting your digital life.

What privacy setting surprised you the most, or is there one you're unsure about? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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