What to Do When You Want to Delete Yourself From the Internet

We'd all like to disappear some days. But none of us are ever alone, even when we're by ourselves, because the internet is always there. It's on our phones, on our tablets, and next to our bedsides in smart speakers that are always listening.

Privacy is a commodity we can't even pay for, but there are some things we can do to try to get some of it back. The first thing is simply to limit how much you personally post online.

Next, evaluate your social profiles. Social media platforms are where you've likely shared the most about yourself. According to WD Storage, 350 million photos are added to Facebook each day. You can go through your profile and erase photos and posts. Or you might opt to delete your Facebook account altogether.

If Twitter is more your thing, think about pruning. It can be wise to delete tweets, particularly if they're potentially problematic, and you're applying for a job. Fifty-seven percent of Americans regret things they've posted to social media, according to WD Storage.

To take things a step further, Google yourself to see what other information about you is out there. You can work to remove yourself from personal data sites with a workbook from Intel Techniques, or simply manage your Google privacy settings.

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Finally, consider using a VPN for all your web browsing. Here's why you need one.