5 privacy tips for Google Chrome on Android

Google Chrome is the default browser for Android. This means that all program settings come enabled by default… for better or for worse. In the case of privacy, there are several tips that can help make your browser more secure, so here are five privacy tips for Google Chrome on Android.

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Enable “do not track”

When you go to a web page, you generally accept cookies: little bits of information that are sent to a server to know more about your preferences. Luckily, it can be disabled.

Once you’re on Google Chrome, click on the three dots on the top right and select “Settings.” From here, go to the section “Privacy,” click on it and look for a box called “Do Not Track.” Click here and enable the option that appears disabled by default. It’s that easy to cut off tracking.

Secure browsing

Under the same section (Settings > Privacy), look for the section called “Secure browsing.” Enable “Protect you and your devices from dangerous sites.”

Turn off autofill

At some point, you’ve been on a web form and all the fields have automatically filled in once you type the first letter. This is more common than you think, since we save our passwords and data on our PC and/or cell phone.

On your computer, it’s bad enough, but it’s worse for your cell phone. After all, if it gets stolen, all your information is exposed. Go to “Settings” > “Autofill settings” and disable “Autofill forms.” It’s typically enabled by default, so you just have to click on the button to disable it.

Usage statistics and crash reports

Usage statistics and crash reports often include personal information. So, it’s sometimes advisable to disable them. Under “Privacy,” look for the section “Usage statistics and crash reports.” Click there and disable them. It will stop sending info to Google, and it may also speed up your smartphone a bit.

Website content settings

Did you know you can restrict what parts of your device a website can access? Imagine that you’ve got your microphone unintentionally enabled and these are the default settings. 

Go to “Settings” and look for the option called “Content settings for websites.” Once you’ve accessed it, a list of options will appear on your screen, including permissions. Microphone, location, notifications… It’s all there, so be sure to set them the way you want.