Protect your privacy when you surf the internet - this is something most iPhone users want. The manufacturer Apple attaches great importance to privacy. We'll show you the best ways to keep your own data and privacy safe with your iPhone.

The term “private” or “incognito” is surely one of the most well-known privacy functions in browsers on computers. It is the function that allows you to surf the web without leaving any history data in the browser. On your computer, you can easily open an incognito browser window. But did you ever think about the privacy on your phone? Do you even know how to get an incognito browser there?

Don’t worry, we also did not really consider it but now that we do we want to share it with you because it is really not hard and very useful. In situations like when you are arranging surprises and presents but also for a general privacy feeling. But anonymous surfing is much more than that: More and more websites are collecting their guests’ data using cookies. This can then be used to create motion profiles. You can learn which internet websites you like to visit when exactly which topics are of interest to you and far more. Advertisers can use this information to display advertising targeted precisely at the user. This can be very annoying while it also feels that someone invades your privacy.

So let's dive into Safari browser settings and VPNs.

Safari

As an Apple user you know Safari, of course, it is the browser on your phone. Apple enables anonymous surfing with it. By activating this function, no browser history data will be saved in your mobile Safari browser. You can safely surf pages without anyone being able to tell from your browser history. That is how you activate it:

First, open the settings. There you click on “Safari”. Next, you activate the “private surfing” option. Done. That was easy, right?

To make 100% sure that the browser does not accept any cookies you can check in your settings if you have deactivated that function by setting it on “never”.

You will realize that the browser icon is not in the light blue color anymore but black. That is how you can see that you did all the steps correctly. You can now surf safely and privately.

VPN

The other option is that you make use of a VPN app. A VPN app is an app that creates a data tunnel between your local network and an exit node in another location. This location can be anywhere in the world. It basically makes it seem as if you are somewhere else. This might sound spooky but it is perfectly legal to do this.

VPN apps can be downloaded in the App Store. But look which one you select because VPNs are usually not free. A monthly payment is the norm. You can also use the VPN on other devices if you select a payment plan with that option. So you can share the VPN with family members and also install it on your laptop for example.

VPNs do not only hide your browser history but protect you in more ways. They hide your IP address and location while they protect your device so it is not visible for cybercriminals. Also, with a VPN you can basically go to any country and trick country streaming restrictions. Imagine you have already watched all the shows on Netflix. Just connect your VPN to another country and enjoy new films and series.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several reasons why you should surf anonymously. Cookies that collect your data and sell it to advertisers are probably the most important reason to care about your browser history. You can take the first step towards more privacy already now by changing your Safari settings. This goes quickly and compared to a VPN this is also for free.

If you want more protection than that you should consider a VPN app. Even though it costs money, it is worth it. The usage of VPNs is actually getting more common these days as more and more people value their privacy. When you consider a VPN check out how many devices are included. Your family members or friends as well as your laptop can also benefit from it.