Privacy
7 min readJanuary 15, 202610 Steps to Protect Your Online Privacy in 2026
Essential privacy practices everyone should follow to keep their personal data safe online.
Your Privacy Is Under Threat
Every day, companies collect vast amounts of your personal data. From browsing habits to location data, your digital footprint reveals more than you think. Here are 10 actionable steps to take back control.
1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Use a different password for every account. Make them at least 12 characters with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Use RevealAI's Password Strength Checker to test yours.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Turn on 2FA for every account that supports it. Use an authenticator app (like Google Authenticator or Authy) instead of SMS when possible.
3. Remove Yourself from Data Brokers
Sites like Spokeo, WhitePages, and BeenVerified sell your personal information. Use RevealAI's Privacy Tools to find and remove your data from these sites.
4. Review App Permissions
Go through your phone's app permissions. Remove access to camera, microphone, contacts, and location for apps that don't need them.
5. Use a VPN on Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi networks are easy targets for hackers. A VPN encrypts your connection and protects your data.
6. Limit Social Media Sharing
Review your privacy settings on all social platforms. Avoid sharing your location, workplace, daily routines, and vacation plans publicly.
7. Monitor Your Credit
Freeze your credit with all three bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion). This prevents identity thieves from opening accounts in your name.
8. Use Encrypted Messaging
Switch to encrypted messaging apps like Signal for sensitive conversations. Regular SMS messages can be intercepted.
9. Regularly Google Yourself
Search your name, phone number, and email address regularly. You might be surprised what comes up. Use RevealAI to run a comprehensive check.
10. Keep Software Updated
Enable automatic updates on all devices. Security patches fix vulnerabilities that hackers exploit.
Take Action Today
Start with the easiest steps — update your passwords and check your data broker exposure with RevealAI's free Privacy Score. Small changes compound into significant protection over time.