Best Browser Privacy Settings You Should Be Using Right Now

In today’s digital world, your online activity is constantly tracked—often without your knowledge. Advertisers, websites, and even your browser can collect data that compromises your privacy. Fortunately, you don’t need to be a tech expert to take control. Adjusting a few settings can significantly improve your online security and anonymity.

Whether you use Chrome, Firefox, or Safari, each browser offers built-in features to limit tracking, block third-party cookies, and secure your data. This guide walks you through the most effective privacy settings available right now. Protect your personal information and enjoy a safer browsing experience in just a few steps.

Why You Should Change These Browser Settings Right Now

Every time you browse the internet, websites, advertisers, and data brokers collect information about your online behavior.

Without proper browser privacy settings, your search history, location, and even login details can be exposed.

Adjusting these settings helps prevent tracking, reduces targeted ads, and minimizes data leaks.

Settings That Prevent Tracking and Data Collection

In today’s digital landscape, nearly every website employs some form of tracking – whether through cookies, fingerprinting, or location data.

Diese browser privacy settings serve as your first line of defense against invasive data collection practices.

By adjusting these fundamental controls, you can significantly reduce your digital footprint while still maintaining full website functionality.

Let’s examine the four most critical settings that every privacy-conscious user should implement immediately.

Enable “Do Not Track” (DNT)

The Do Not Track feature functions as a polite request asking websites not to monitor your browsing activity.

While not legally binding (only about 15% of sites honor it according to Electronic Frontier Foundation), activating DNT still provides baseline protection against some trackers and demonstrates your privacy preferences.

Implementation Guide:

Chrome:
Navigate to Settings > Privacy and Security > Cookies and other site data
Scroll down to Send a “Do Not Track” request and toggle it on
Firefox:
Go to Options > Privacy & Security
Under Enhanced Tracking Protection, check Enable “Do Not Track”
Safari:
Open Preferences > Privacy
Check the box for Ask websites not to track me

Pro tip: combine DNT with other protections for layered security.

Block Third-Party Cookies

Third-party cookies represent one of the most pervasive tracking methods, allowing advertisers to follow you across multiple websites. A Princeton University study found these cookies present on 90% of top websites.

Configuration Instructions:

Chrome:
Settings > Privacy and Security > Cookies and other site data
Select Block third-party cookies
Firefox:
Options > Privacy & Security
Under Enhanced Tracking Protection, choose Strict mode
Safari:
Preferences > Privacy
Check Block all cookies (note: may require whitelisting trusted sites)

Important: first-party cookies (from sites you visit directly) should generally remain enabled for proper website functionality.

Disable Location Tracking

Many websites request location access under the guise of providing “localized content,” but this data often gets shared with third parties. A Pew Research study found 72% of users are uncomfortable with this practice.

How to Restrict Access:
All major browsers:

Access Settings > Privacy and Security > Site Settings;
Select Location;
Choose Block (or Ask before accessing for selective permission).

Bonus: periodically review and clear existing location permissions under Site Settings > View permissions and data stored across sites.

Stop Autofill & Password Saving

While browser-based password managers offer convenience, they present significant security risks. The 2023 Verizon Data Breach Report showed 61% of breaches involved credential theft.

Secure Alternatives:

Password Managers:
- Bitwarden (open-source);
- 1Password (business-friendly).
Implementation:
Chrome/Firefox: Settings > Autofill > Passwords – Disable Offer to save passwords
Safari: Preferences > Passwords – Uncheck AutoFill usernames and passwords

Critical note: always enable two-factor authentication (2FA) regardless of your password storage method.

How to Improve Privacy on Chrome, Firefox, and Safari

Modern web browsers may prioritize speed and convenience, but without the right settings, they can also leave your personal data exposed.

Fortunately, Chrome, Firefox, and Safari all offer privacy tools that, when properly configured, give you more control over who can track your online behavior.

Whether you’re concerned about targeted ads, cookies, or hidden trackers, making a few smart adjustments can go a long way.

Chrome Privacy Settings

Turn on Safe Browsing (Privacy and Security > Security);
Disable “Allow sites to check if you have payment methods saved” (Privacy and Security > Site Settings > Payment Handlers);
Use Incognito Mode (but note: it doesn’t make you fully anonymous).

For stronger privacy, consider Google’s safety recommendations.

Firefox Privacy Settings

Enable Enhanced Tracking Protection (Strict Mode);
Disable WebRTC (prevents IP leaks) – Install an extension like uBlock Origin;
Use Firefox Containers (isolates logins from tracking).

Siehe Mozilla’s tracking protection guide for details.

Safari Privacy Settings

Enable “Prevent Cross-Site Tracking” (Preferences > Privacy);
Use Private Relay (iCloud+) (masks IP);
Disable “Allow websites to check for Apple Pay”.

Extra Tips for Anonymous Browsing and Protection

Use a Privacy-Focused Browser
- Mutig (blocks ads & trackers by default);
- Tor Browser (for maximum anonymity).
Install Privacy Extensions
- uBlock Origin (blocks ads & trackers);
- Privacy Badger (stops hidden trackers).
Regularly Clear Browsing Data
- Delete cookies, cache, and history frequently.

For more security tools, explore our guide on the best privacy apps for 2025.

Abschließende Überlegungen

Adjusting browser privacy settings is essential for protecting your online identity. While no setting makes you 100% anonymous, these steps significantly reduce tracking and data collection.

For further security, consider switching to a privacy-first browser and using encrypted tools.

Stay safe online!