Practical privacy checklist (10-minute pass)

A quick privacy audit you can complete in about 10 minutes.

Browser settings (2 minutes)

• [ ] Block third-party cookies where possible
• [ ] Review location permissions
• [ ] Remove extensions you no longer use
• [ ] Use a search engine you are comfortable with from a privacy standpoint
• [ ] Clear saved site permissions you do not recognize

VPN setup (3 minutes)

• [ ] Enable the kill switch
• [ ] Run a DNS leak test
• [ ] Use a modern protocol such as WireGuard or OpenVPN when appropriate
• [ ] Confirm the VPN covers every device you actually use
• [ ] Make sure the app still reconnects properly after updates

Device settings (3 minutes)

• [ ] Review app permissions on your phone and laptop
• [ ] Remove old devices from accounts you no longer use
• [ ] Turn on two-factor authentication where available
• [ ] Check which apps can access your camera, mic, and contacts
• [ ] Update the operating system and browser

Quick wins (2 minutes)

• [ ] Use a password manager
• [ ] Turn on screen lock with strong authentication
• [ ] Revoke unused app or site access
• [ ] Review social media privacy settings
• [ ] Delete apps you installed once and forgot about

Privacy is not a one-time project. Small habits repeated a few times a year are what make the difference.