Comprehensive Yearly Privacy Settings Review (All Platforms & Devices)

Why

Privacy settings on operating systems, applications, and online platforms change frequently, and default settings often do not prioritize user privacy. A comprehensive annual review ensures you maintain control over your personal information, limit data collection, and aren’t unknowingly sharing more data than intended across all your digital touchpoints.

Action

• Major Online Accounts (Google, Apple, Microsoft, etc.):

  • Access the main privacy dashboard for each account.
  • Review activity controls (e.g., web & app activity, location history, voice recordings) and adjust or delete data as preferred.
  • Check data sharing settings with third-party apps and services; revoke unnecessary access.
  • Review ad personalization settings and opt-out where possible.

• Social Media Platforms:

  • For each platform (Facebook, Instagram, X/Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok, etc.):
    • Review who can see your profile information, posts, photos, and friends/follower lists. Adjust to be more restrictive if needed.
    • Check settings for tagging, facial recognition, and location sharing. Disable if not desired.
    • Review connected apps and third-party logins, revoking unneeded access.
    • Examine ad preferences and data sharing settings with advertisers.

• Operating Systems (Computers & Mobile Devices):

  • Computers (Windows, macOS): Review system-level privacy settings related to location services, advertising ID, diagnostic data, and app permissions.
  • Mobile Devices (iOS, Android): Audit privacy settings for location tracking, microphone/camera access, advertising identifiers, app tracking, and diagnostic data. Review permissions for individual apps.

• Web Browsers:

  • Review privacy and security settings (e.g., cookie handling, tracking protection, “Do Not Track” requests).
  • Clear browsing history, cookies, and cache if not done regularly.
  • Review permissions granted to websites (e.g., location, notifications, camera/microphone).

• Smart Home Devices & IoT:

  • Check privacy settings within the apps that control your smart home devices (e.g., smart speakers, cameras, thermostats).
  • Review data collection policies, voice recording storage, and sharing options.

• Other Key Applications & Services:

  • Review privacy settings for streaming services, gaming platforms, work-related platforms, and any other services where you have accounts and share data.

• Children’s Accounts (if applicable):

  • Thoroughly review and adjust privacy and safety settings on any accounts or devices used by children.

Remember

Balance privacy with functionality; some features may require certain data sharing. Document your preferred settings or take screenshots after review, as this can help identify unwanted changes by platforms later and serves as a record of your choices.