The Windows operating system has been the most used operating system to this day. Its features have proven to be one of the best on the market. However, every operating system has its flaws alongside its benefits.
People have been worried about their privacy when using the Windows operating system. Any time you turn on your computer, you must ensure that your identity and data are not exposed to possible dangers. Additionally, whenever you use the internet, some of your data will be collected and used for different purposes.
If you want to learn how you can put an end to your privacy concerns, we have made a detailed list of some of the things you can do to defend your privacy on Windows computers.
Play around with the search permissions
When you open your settings, look for “search permissions.” You can customize your search experience and decide how much data you want to expose to other parties on the internet. The “Safe Search” option will allow you to customize the content appearing on your search engine. You can choose to filter information or not. This way, less of your data will be exposed to others.
In the “search permissions” section, you can also find “cloud content search.” Once you disable this feature, your operating system will not be able to go through your cloud data, such as Photos, etc. All your data stored in the cloud can be invisible to other parties.
Go to the location settings and turn tracking off
Letting your operating system track your location may be one of the worst enemies of your privacy. Yes, it may be easier to see the weather and other location-based features, but it will endanger your privacy.
When you turn on your location, your computer will collect as much data as possible and create recommendations accordingly. If you want to keep your data to yourself, you should disable the location tracking services. You will see less of your data will be exposed to your Windows operating system.
Limit app permissions to just the essentials
When you download an app on your Windows, it will ask for specific permissions, such as access to your camera, microphone, gallery, etc. Some of these permissions are essential for running the app smoothly and successfully.
On the other hand, some permissions allow websites to collect your data and use it for advertisements. You have complete control over which features an app can access on your Windows device. To restrict access, open your settings and search for “Apps & features.”
You will see all your installed apps and which features they can access. Simply turn off any permissions you think are unnecessary.
Avoid using digital assistants
Cortana was one of the promising additions to the Windows operating system. This digital assistant can help you with many everyday activities, such as seeing the traffic on your way to work. However, it must collect a lot of your data and invade your privacy to be helpful. After all, research on Cortana has presented many red flags that users should know before relying on.
Shortly after Cortana entered the Windows realm, Microsoft shut down this project. However, remember that all digital assistants get to retrieve excessive amounts of users’ data. In some voice-activated gadgets, companies even hold recordings of their users’ commands. Thus, whichever similar product you choose, try to evaluate its necessity and the potential privacy invasions it does.
Get a trusted VPN
Using a trustworthy Virtual Private Network app is one of the best ways to keep your devices safer. When surfing the internet on your Windows, your data will be exposed to potential threats and cyber-attacks. To avoid possible dangers, you should use a VPN for Windows.
This tool will help you hide your location on your computer by hiding your real IP address. As you know, this identifier gets tracked by nearly all web entities. By hiding it, you boost your anonymity and blend your traffic together with thousands of connected strangers.
A VPN on your computers lets you protect all file and data sharing. But please remember that a VPN is different from an antivirus tool. You need a separate antivirus program to deal with malware and computer viruses.
See what programs you have
You might install many programs on your computer, from games to editing software. However, always pay attention to what actions or changes these applications get to make. For instance, experts recommended being on the lookout for any programs you do not remember installing.
Bundled software can bring multiple applications into your system. And sadly, most users agree to receive extra software during installation. Thus, paying attention to what a particular program will bring to your system is crucial.
Conclusion
Making your Windows a safe space for all your data may not be easy, but it’s one of the most important things you can do. To increase your privacy and protect yourself from possible dangers, you should review all the points we’ve listed above. All these features are easily accessible – it will take just a few minutes to increase your privacy on your computer.
Many people have reported that they don’t trust Microsoft’s operating system with their privacy, and they were right. Windows will collect some of your data and use it for different purposes.
If you want to stop your computer from collecting information about you, you can take a few small steps that will make a significant difference. With these tips, you can finally use your computer without worrying about your privacy.
