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Internet browsing is an important part of life in the modern era. It’s something that almost everyone does every day, all the time, but all of it is also done unconsciously.
This leads to negative consequences when it comes to privacy and the quality of your digital experiences. So, how can one change their browsing patterns for the better?
Let’s take a critical look at the habits that underpin it. The result can be a massive change in the way you look at the online world all around you.
Online tracking is something that many users are barely aware of. But it’s a growing concern among regulators in various jurisdictions. If you don’t want unscrupulous third parties to learn all about your life, then it follows that you’ll need to be careful about the links you click on, and the software you use to click on them.
Making small adjustments in your browsing habits can increase awareness of the information that you may be sharing on the internet. Also, these simple habits can make you more aware of the kinds of web pages, applications, and other services that are tracking your activity online.
During the first half of your online experiment, you’ll take note of just how often your personal data is being requested. You can do this by rejecting the cookies used to track you. These small pieces of code are used by advertisers to target you based on your browsing history. You can deactivate them using a standard browser, or by using specialised software, like the Tor browser.
Once you’ve gone for a few days without cookies, you can start to make more adjustments. You might swap Google search for an alternative like DuckDuckGo. You can also use a browser extension to block ads, and review the permissions you’re granting. In many cases, lifting an unnecessary permission won’t have any impact on the browsing experience – but it will keep you protected.
Of course, there’s only so much that we can do as individuals. But one of the major benefits of this exercise is the way that it heightens our awareness of the state of the internet, and the way that it’s being reshaped by privacy concerns. In Canada, proposed law like the Consumer Privacy Protection Act (CPPA) look set to empower internet users by granting them the right to request that data be deleted, and by toughening the punishments for online services that fail to play by the rules.
You might also find that your state of mind while surfing the internet becomes subtly, but noticeably, different. You might feel a greater sense of control – and this is always something worth holding on to!
Why should I change my browsing habits?
It is beneficial for you to change your browsing habits because it makes you more aware of online tracking and how you handle your personal data.
Would clearing cookies make a difference to online privacy?
Yes, since deleting cookies deletes some of the stored tracking information, even though not all of it.
What is an alternative to Google search?
DuckDuckGo is one such privacy-oriented alternative search engine, and users are able to compare different search engines and find the one that suits their requirements.
Can browser extensions be used for privacy protections?
There are some browser extensions that can help to control ads, trackers, and other permissions on websites. It is important to check what access the extension will have.
Why should I check my browser permissions?
Checking your permissions might help you to understand which permissions are not necessary for the website or the service. It would allow you to remove unneeded permissions and thus not disclose information online.
Can changing my browsing habits become a long-term improvement?
It can be. A short period of time will be enough for you to become aware of your actions and adopt better practices in the future.
