Apple can only do so much to help keep its users’ data safe. It does a decent job of not allowing certain apps to be downloaded from its App Store if they have risen red flags, and things like pop-up blockers are always valuable. But it’s up to us as users to take certain steps to beef up our own privacy and security — starting with having more knowledge of which settings can affect your privacy and changing their permissions when necessary.
Here are three iPhone privacy settings you can turn off for better security and privacy.
1. Ad Personalization
If the Personalized Ads setting on your iPhone is turned on, you are allowing Apple to track your online behavior in order to bring you targeted ads. The minute you search for “white sneakers,” for example, dozens of ads will shortly trail your every move online in the hopes that you’ll click on one. Toggle this off by going to Settings > Privacy & Security > Apple Advertising > Personalized Ads.
2. Location Services
The Location Services setting should be enabled for apps that need it — when they need it. If you’re looking for your navigation app to provide directions from your home to a great restaurant in another neighborhood, this setting is clearly important. But you may be shocked to find that many of your apps can access your location right this minute, and they don’t need it to do their jobs. Maintain more privacy by going to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services.
3. Clearing Safari Browser Data
If you think about how often your search on Safari and how much of that data is stored, you can understand that finding ways to clear that browsing data can help keep your privacy better protected. Clearing browser data can also resolve issues with cookies and cache and free up much-needed storage space so that your phone continues to run and be used efficiently. Clear data by going to Settings > Safari > Clear History and Website Data.
