Privacy Tips from the Threema Team – Part 2
There are various ways to protect your online privacy. With so many approaches available, it pays to get tips from people who deal with the subject on a daily basis. Here is part two of the best privacy tips from the Threema team.
Small Changes, Big Impact
Install an ad blocker: Tools like uBlock Origin or Wipr2 not only block annoying ads but also disable invasive tracking scripts. This protects your privacy and speeds up the loading of web pages.
Remove trackers when sharing links: Many links contain so-called “URL parameters” or “UTM tags,” which may reveal who shared the link and who clicks on it. Look out for additional characters, numbers, and words following a question mark at the end of a URL. Removing this part of the URL keeps the redirection anonymous. One tool for removing trackers from links is Link Cleaner.
Use email aliases: An alias is a forwarding address that hides your real email address. This allows you to use services without revealing your primary address or ending up on spam lists. Frequently recommended tools include SimpleLogin and addy.io.
Use authenticator apps instead of SMS codes: With dedicated apps, you don’t have to provide your phone number to every service, which reduces the risk of tracking. Additionally, app-based codes are more secure, as SMS messages can theoretically be intercepted. This protects both your privacy and your user account.
The Right Tools
Comaps instead of Google Maps: Privacy-focused map apps do not constantly track your location or save your trips. This allows you to navigate without your movement profile being stored in a central user account.
Local LLM instead of ChatGPT: Instead of interacting with a server in the cloud, the query is sent to a local Large Language Model (LLM) running on your own hardware. This way, your text and data never leave your device and don’t end up in the training data of big tech companies. Privacy-friendly AI models like Lumo are a good alternative.
Strategically Protect Your Communication and Identity
Use Threema Libre on a “de-Googled” smartphone: Threema Libre is a particularly transparent, open-source version of the app. When used with a phone that isn’t equipped with Google services, you can communicate completely independently of Big Tech.
Use multiple SIM cards to separate numbers for specific purposes: With Dual SIM or eSIMs, you can use different phone numbers for various purposes (e.g., personal, business, or online services). This way, you don’t have to provide your primary personal number everywhere, reducing the risk of spam, phishing attacks, and tracking.
Protection on the Go and in Everyday Life
Stay in airplane mode whenever possible: Airplane mode disconnects your device from the cellular network, which prevents location tracking via cell towers. Wi-Fi can usually be enabled separately so you can still stay online and communicate using chat apps.
Adjust your car’s tracking settings: Modern vehicles often collect data such as location, driving behavior, and app activity by default. This data collection can usually be restricted through the infotainment system, in the manufacturer’s apps, or via the smartphone connection.
Avoid loyalty programs: Loyalty programs (e.g., from your local supermarket) collect detailed data on your purchasing behavior in exchange for discounts. By opting out, you prevent a comprehensive profile of your consumption habits from being created.
Block tracking on the network: With DNS blocking, e.g., using a tool like Pi-hole, tracking requests and ads are stopped within your home network before they reach your device. This protects all connected devices in your household at the same time.
As should be established by now, online privacy is a vast and complex topic, and there’s no shortage of ways to improve how we protect our personal information.
Are there any important privacy tips we missed? Let us know which ones on our social-media channels.
