Windows computers are powerful tools, but they can also collect a lot of personal information if not properly configured. As a beginner Windows user, it’s important to take some simple steps to boost your privacy and keep your data secure. Here are twelve essential tips, each with clear instructions and examples, to help you safeguard your information.
Why Should You Care About Privacy on Windows?
Windows is designed to be user-friendly, but it also collects diagnostic data, personal preferences, and can share information with Microsoft and third-party apps. Enhancing your privacy settings means less tracking, fewer targeted ads, and more control over your information.
1. Review and Adjust Privacy Settings
Click the Start menu, go to Settings, then select Privacy & security. Browse through each section, like General, Speech, Inking & typing personalization, and Diagnostics & feedback. Turn off options you’re uncomfortable with, such as sending diagnostic data or personalized ads.
2. Limit What Apps Can Access
Still in Privacy & security, click on App permissions (such as Location, Camera, Microphone, Contacts, etc.). Disable access for apps that don’t need it. For example, if you never use your camera for video calls, turn off camera access entirely.
3. Use a Local Account Instead of a Microsoft Account
Using a local account keeps your login information off Microsoft’s servers. Go to Settings, Accounts, Your info, and choose “Sign in with a local account instead.” This change prevents syncing data like your contacts and browsing habits.
4. Turn Off Ad Tracking
Navigate to Settings, Privacy & security, General, and switch off “Let apps show me personalized ads by using my advertising ID.” This reduces the amount of data shared with advertisers.
5. Clear Your Activity History
Windows stores your activity history, including apps used and websites visited. Go to Settings, Privacy & security, Activity history. Uncheck “Store my activity history on this device,” and click “Clear activity history” to wipe what’s already there.
6. Use Windows Defender and Secure Your Device
Make sure Windows Defender (now called Windows Security) is on. Go to Settings, Privacy & security, Windows Security, and open it. Run a quick scan to remove threats and check that firewall protection is enabled.
7. Update Windows Regularly
Privacy vulnerabilities are often patched through updates. Go to Settings, Windows Update, and click “Check for updates.” Install any available updates to stay protected.
8. Control Cortana and Voice Features
Cortana can collect searches and conversations. If you don’t use Cortana, go to Settings, Privacy & security, Voice activation, and turn off microphone access for Cortana and other voice apps.
9. Manage Syncing and Cloud Features
If you use OneDrive or sync settings across devices, be aware your files and preferences are stored online. Go to Settings, Accounts, Sync your settings, and disable anything you don’t want uploaded, like passwords or language preferences.
10. Secure Your Lock Screen Content
By default, the lock screen can show notifications and personal info. Go to Settings, Personalization, Lock screen, and disable “Show notifications on the lock screen” to keep this info private.
11. Use Glary Utilities for Privacy Cleanup
Glary Utilities is a trusted all-in-one system optimization tool that offers privacy protection features for beginners. Open Glary Utilities, select the “Privacy & Security” tab, and use tools like “Tracks Eraser” to clear browser history, cache, and recent document lists. The “File Shredder” securely deletes sensitive files, making them unrecoverable. These tools are easy to use and help keep your private data safe from prying eyes.
12. Be Careful with Public Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
When on public Wi-Fi, avoid accessing sensitive accounts. Always turn off Bluetooth when not in use. You can toggle Bluetooth from Settings, Devices, Bluetooth & devices.
Final Thoughts
Improving your privacy on Windows doesn’t have to be difficult. Taking these steps will help you control what information your system collects and shares. For added peace of mind, regularly use tools like Glary Utilities to maintain your system’s privacy and clean up digital traces. With these beginner-friendly enhancements, you’re well on your way to a more secure and private Windows experience.