When you open a maps app for directions, you probably don’t think about what data you’re giving away—or who gets to keep it. Most major mapping platforms collect a surprising amount of location data, app activity, and search history, often linking it to your personal profile. But if you want accurate directions without the tracking, […]

When you think of tracking, you probably think of browser cookies. But here’s the catch: mobile apps don’t rely on traditional cookies. Instead, many advertising and analytics companies use device-based identifiers to follow your activity across apps on the same phone or tablet. Two of the most common are Apple’s Identifier for Advertisers (IDFA) and […]

That little checkbox—“Remember me”—looks harmless. It’s convenient, it saves time, and it keeps you signed in. But convenience can come at a cost. Allowing websites to remember your password (or keep you logged in indefinitely) increases the chance that someone who gets access to your device—or your browser profile—can waltz straight into your accounts. For […]

Smart speakers are incredibly helpful—setting reminders, reading calendars, and updating shopping lists with a simple voice command. But convenience shouldn’t come at the cost of privacy. If you’re hosting guests, have roommates, or simply want to reduce exposure of sensitive info, disabling Personal Results on your Google Nest device is a smart move. This setting […]

Alexa makes life easier, but convenience can sometimes lead to unexpected risks. If your Amazon Alexa device misinterprets a command, it might send a text message, email, or even call someone you didn’t intend. That’s not just awkward—it can expose personal information. The good news? You can prevent this by blocking your address book on […]

Your email address is more than just a way to communicate—it’s a key part of your online identity. But did you know the email address you choose can affect how much spam you receive? Spammers send millions of messages every day, targeting common name combinations in hopes of hitting a valid address. If your email […]