Are you concerned about all the potential threats on the internet? If that is the case, you may want to start thinking about improving privacy.

Even if you are not a target, knowing that you have taken all the necessary measures will help you sleep better at night. So whether it is a computer or smartphone you are concerned about, here are some methods that should help with keeping everything in check and give you peace of mind.

Method #1 – Use Proxies

If you are interested in browsing the internet anonymously, making use of services like Proxyway is the best course of action. Proxies allow you to build a bridge between your end and the website you are looking to access. You are connected with a different IP address. The information is encrypted, and it makes it more or less impossible to trace your browsing history or intercept your browsing in real time.

However, if you do decide to try proxies, avoid free services. Those are not that secure and pose a threat. Not to mention that an abundance of people will cause frequent disconnects and other issues when trying to use the services.

Method #2 – Install a Reliable Antivirus

Getting a reliable antivirus is a good piece of advice in general. You can secure more than just your browsing privacy. There are also viruses and malware that significantly reduce the overall performance of the computer.

These days, you should be able to find a good anti-malware tool even if you are on a tight budget. In fact, you can even look for free alternatives that can do a perfectly fine job as well.

Method #3 – Get Unique Passwords

Forget about using a combination of a few numbers and a random word for a password. Instead, look for a generator that will create a strong password. You need to be smarter about managing your profiles, and that includes picking unique passwords.

Imagine what will happen if someone finds out your password, and it works on multiple accounts? Emails, bank information, and other data are exposed.

Method #4 – Add Browser Extensions

A browser should be pretty secure on its own, especially if you are using something like Mozilla Firefox or Tor. However, you should still look to add some extensions that will further solidify the overall security.

For example, ad blockers will prevent annoying pop-ups. Clicking on those accidentally could lead to ending on a landing page running rampant with viruses and malware. And even if you are on top of these things and never click on questionable ads or other links, someone else using the same network connection in your house might not be as experienced.

Method #5 – Look for Different Payment Methods

Paying for products or services online with a credit card is perfectly fine in most instances. However, if you are trying to leave fewer traces behind, there is an option to use different payment methods.

Services like Payoneer and PayPal are a good example. Also, more businesses are accepting cryptocurrency as a legitimate payment method. There should be even more options available in the future as various technologies continue to develop and move forward. Be sure to keep an eye for when that happens.

Method #6 – Create Throwaway Email Accounts

Most people should have personal email accounts. And more often than not, you will find personal credentials in these accounts, like a name or last name.

Throwaway emails are becoming more popular, thanks to Gmail and other providers. You can create as many accounts as you want. So instead of registering with a personal account and getting bombarded with spam and other hindrances, why not create a throwaway email account when there is an opportunity for it?

Using a different email address will leave fewer traces behind as you can never be certain about what the person reading your emails is planning.

Method #7 – Avoid Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi is not something that you should be using. Sure, there are times when you do not have an option and need to connect to the internet while in a hotel, or waiting for someone in a station.

These networks are not secure, and you are risking every time you join it. If you do end up needing to access public Wi-Fi, prepare a virtual private network that allows for anonymous browsing and encrypts information.

Method #8 – Change Social Media Settings

Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram continue to grow at a rapid speed. New users are joining all the time. It seems like social media will continue to be a big part of our lives.

But the problem is how it has become such an important aspect. People share too much without thinking about the consequences. If you are looking to improve online privacy, avoid posting too much personal stuff. Or at least change the settings so that your content is visible only to people who are on the friend list.