In an age defined by widespread digitalization, tech giants, including social media platforms like those under the Meta umbrella, as well as various entertainment and streaming services, amass extensive data through the monitoring of your online activities and whereabouts.

Have you ever stopped to ponder the potential exploitation of your personal data and the immense profits reaped by these tech companies through its sale? In today’s digital environment, where constant tracking facilitates targeted advertising, it’s imperative to recognize the hazards associated with the unauthorized extraction of data or “data theft” by these entities.

Now is the time to remain vigilant and push back against such practices. This article endeavors to offer a straightforward guide on fortifying your personal data privacy, enabling you to assert control over your online presence and shield your sensitive information from exploitation.

Easiest way to stop websites tracking you online

Although you can save yourself from being surveilled online by tech companies using various anti tracking browsers and other hacks, but we’ll only reflect on some of the best VPNs and browser extensions you can install in your devices to evade the play of being tracked online.

Anti tracking browser extensions

Ghostery

-Ghostery, a browser extension, specializes in identifying the source and purpose of trackers, providing users with insights into their online tracking activities. However, it doesn’t offer features such as pop-up notifications or script organization. Due to potential conflicts with PageScanner, it’s advisable to use Ghostery reactively, addressing identified threats as they arise.

-Available as both a browser extension and a standalone browser, Ghostery also features a privacy-focused search engine. Users can access this search engine through the extension itself or by visiting its dedicated website.

uBlock Origin

-uBlock Origin is a powerful open-source ad blocker with advanced blocking capabilities. It offers precise control, customisable block lists, and efficient ad/element blocking.

-While it may require more setup, uBlock Origin provides the most comprehensive ad-blocking solution among the alternatives mentioned.

Privacy Badger

-Privacy Badger, an open-source browser extension, prioritizes tracker blocking over ad blocking. Unlike some other extensions, it doesn’t offer intricate insights into tracking methods; instead, it adopts a learning approach to gradually block trackers based on user behavior.

-Users have the option to opt for automatic tracker updates or local learning. While the latter can enhance protection, it may also heighten identifiability. Privacy Badger is compatible with Chromium and Firefox browsers, and users can toggle local learning via the Options page.