The internet and its advertising giants know a huge amount about your life—and the goal is to keep it that way by making the process of removing personal information and deleting accounts a total pain. Here’s how you minimize your digital footprint. wired.trib.al/Y4Oc1DR 1/7
You’ll need to start by tracking down those old Myspace and Tumblr accounts and removing all traces of them. You should also clean out stored online data like email accounts with old messages (and attachments). 2/7
Depending on the situation, you may want to try to speed things up a little or use legal muscle if it involves harmful content. Using a third-party data-removal service is also an option—make sure you read their privacy policies before using them. 3/7
Where possible avoid using Big Tech for all your online activities. Pick a web browser and search engine that doesn't collect your data; use end-to-end-encrypted apps and disappearing messages when appropriate. 4/7
It’s also important to understand what data WhatsApp, Instagram,Google, and others apps collect about you. When you’re signing up for new online accounts, consider whether you need to enter your personal details or whether you should use a burner account to mask your identity.5/7
If you’re keen to be invisible online then you should also consider discussing your position with friends and family to help protect your personal info and keep your life private. wired.trib.al/Y4Oc1DR 6/7
Subscribe to WIRED and get unlimited access to our longform features, buying guides, and tech news. wired.trib.al/RzetCkJ 7/7
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