How can you secure your search history?

1 Use a private or incognito mode

Most browsers have a feature that allows you to browse the web without saving your history, cookies, or other data on your device. This can help you avoid leaving traces of your searches on your computer or phone, which may be accessed by others who share or use your device. However, this mode does not hide your activity from the search engine provider, your internet service provider, or anyone who can intercept your network traffic. To protect your data from these sources, you need to use other methods.

2 Use a secure connection

When you use a search engine, make sure that the URL starts with https, which indicates that the connection is encrypted and secure. This can prevent anyone from eavesdropping on your searches or modifying the results. You can also use a virtual private network (VPN) or a proxy server to mask your IP address and location, which may be used to identify or track you. A VPN or a proxy can also help you bypass censorship or geo-restrictions that may limit your access to certain websites or content.

3 Use a privacy-focused search engine

Not all search engines are equal when it comes to respecting your privacy and security. Some search engines collect and store more data than others, and some may share or sell it to third parties. If you want to avoid this, you can use a privacy-focused search engine that does not track, store, or share your data. Some examples of such search engines are DuckDuckGo, Startpage, Qwant, and Searx. These search engines may also offer features such as anonymous viewing, encryption, or customization that can enhance your privacy and security.

4 Clear your search history and cookies

Even if you use a private mode, a secure connection, or a privacy-focused search engine, you may still have some data stored on your device or online that can reveal your search history. To delete this data, you can clear your browser history and cookies, which may contain information about your searches, visits, and preferences. You can also delete your search history and settings from your search engine account, if you have one. This can help you prevent anyone from accessing or using your data without your consent.

5 Use a password manager and two-factor authentication

If you have a search engine account, you should protect it with a strong and unique password that you do not use for any other account. You should also use a password manager to store and generate your passwords securely, rather than writing them down or using the same one for multiple accounts. Additionally, you should enable two-factor authentication, which requires you to enter a code or a confirmation from another device or app, in addition to your password, to access your account. This can help you prevent unauthorized access or hacking of your account.

6 Review your privacy and security settings

Finally, you should review your privacy and security settings on your browser and your search engine account, if you have one. You can adjust these settings to limit or disable the collection, storage, or sharing of your data. You can also opt out of personalized ads, location tracking, or other features that may affect your privacy and security. You should also check the privacy policies and terms of service of the search engines you use, and be aware of what data they collect and how they use it.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?