Devices
Choose a better default browser
Not all browsers are equal when it comes to privacy. Chrome is the most popular but also the most aggressive in tracking. Firefox and Brave offer better privacy defaults out of the box.
If you are not ready to switch, at least configure your current browser properly.
Firefox: Best balance of privacy and compatibility. Enable Enhanced Tracking Protection (Strict mode)
Brave: Built-in ad blocking and tracker blocking. Good for most people
Safari: Decent privacy on Apple devices. Enable Hide IP from Trackers
Chrome: If you must use it, install uBlock Origin and configure privacy settings
Devices
Essential browser settings
These settings apply to most browsers and significantly reduce tracking and data exposure.
Block third-party cookies (most browsers have this option)
Disable autofill for payment methods and addresses
Clear cookies and site data on browser close (or use containers)
Disable search suggestions that send every keystroke to the search engine
Use a privacy-respecting search engine (DuckDuckGo, Startpage, Brave Search)
Enable HTTPS-Only mode
Devices
Extensions worth installing
Less is more with extensions. Every extension has access to your browsing data. Only install what you need from trusted sources.
uBlock Origin: The best ad and tracker blocker. Free and open source
Bitwarden: Password manager extension for autofilling credentials securely
ClearURLs: Removes tracking parameters from URLs
Skip Redirect: Bypasses unnecessary redirect tracking pages
Do not install random extensions that promise extra features. Most are data harvesters
Devices
Habits that matter
Good browser hygiene is about habits, not just settings. Small changes in how you browse make a big difference.
Use private/incognito mode for one-off searches and logins
Do not save passwords in the browser. Use a dedicated password manager
Log out of accounts when you are done, especially on shared devices
Review your extensions periodically and remove anything you do not use
Be suspicious of browser notifications. Most are spam
Takeaway
A well-configured browser with one or two good extensions does more for your privacy than any VPN subscription.