Browser Privacy Settings: 5 Hidden Tweaks for Better Security
Most people ignore their browser privacy settings, leaving personal data exposed. But your browser gives you control over cookies, trackers, and history—if you know where to look. Below are 5 hidden settings that boost your private browsing and lock down your digital footprint.
✅ Read our guide on clearing cache and cookies for extra speed and privacy.
🔐 1. Block Third-Party Cookies
Third-party cookies track your activity across websites. Disabling them protects you from targeted ads and trackers.
How to do it:
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Chrome:
Settings > Privacy > Cookies > Block third-party cookies -
Firefox:
Settings > Privacy & Security > Enhanced Tracking Protection > Strict -
Edge:
Settings > Cookies and site permissions > Block third-party cookies -
Safari:
Settings > Privacy > Prevent cross-site tracking
🔗 External Resource: Google support on cookies
🕶️ 2. Enable Private Browsing by Default
Want private browsing every time you open the browser? Set it as default:
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Firefox: Settings > Privacy > Always use private browsing
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Edge: Right-click icon > Properties > Add
-inprivate -
Safari: File > New Private Window
-
Chrome: Use an incognito shortcut:
--incognito
💡 See incognito mode tips here
📍 3. Disable Location Tracking
Websites don’t need to know your exact location. Block them unless absolutely necessary.
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Chrome: Settings > Privacy > Site settings > Location > Don’t allow
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Firefox: Settings > Permissions > Location > Block
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Edge: Settings > Site Permissions > Location
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Safari: Preferences > Websites > Location > Deny
🔗 Learn more at Mozilla’s Privacy Hub
🧹 4. Auto-Clear Browsing Data on Exit
Auto-deleting your history and cookies keeps you secure, especially on shared devices.
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Chrome: Privacy > Clear cookies and site data on close
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Firefox: Clear history when Firefox closes
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Edge: Clear data on exit under Privacy settings
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Safari: Use ⌘+Shift+Delete before quitting
📚 Related: Clear browser cache and cookies
🔐 5. Use DNS-over-HTTPS (DoH)
Secure your DNS queries to stop ISPs from tracking your site visits.
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Chrome/Edge: Privacy > Secure DNS > Enable
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Firefox: General > Network Settings > Enable DNS over HTTPS
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Safari: System Settings > DNS > Use DoH provider
Conclusion
Updating your browser privacy settings takes just minutes but gives you lasting protection. Whether you’re browsing privately or blocking trackers, these simple steps can prevent data misuse and enhance your online safety.
FAQs About Browser Privacy Settings
Q1: What’s the difference between incognito mode and private browsing?
They’re the same concept with different names across browsers. They don’t save history but don’t hide your IP or encrypt traffic.
Q2: Does disabling cookies affect browsing?
Some sites may not function fully, but most allow access without tracking you.
Q3: Should I use a VPN with these settings?
Yes, a VPN combined with private settings offers the strongest privacy.
Q4: Are these settings available on mobile browsers?
Yes! Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge mobile versions offer most of these privacy options.
Q5: Is Firefox better for privacy?
Yes, Firefox offers more granular control and enhanced anti-tracking features by default.