Discover DuckDuckGo, the Alternative to Google that Doesn’t Track your Data

It’s common knowledge, at this point in time, that Google stores a lot of data about us every single time we go online, use an app or any Google service. It might sound like a conspiracy theory, but we have to be aware that we’re being watched and that our privacy is continuously violated when we put ourselves – and our information – on the Internet.

What happens when you create a Google account

Creating a Google account is just about the same as signing a contract. You’ll get to use tons of Google services for free, and, in turn, Google will have permission to follow you around in your Internet movements and to access some of your apps. Therefore, when you start using Google services, you’re basically giving up on your privacy online. The “contract” we mentioned is Google’s Terms of Service, which you have to agree to for the purpose of creating an account.

Now, how is Google keeping track of your activity? Well, by tracking your search and browsing history, meaning that Google keeps tabs on every website you visit. It also creates a private map of where you go with signed-in devices. If you use an Android phone, Google has access to your contacts, calendars and any apps you might have downloaded. And finally, know that whenever you’re in the vicinity of your phone, Google can record your voice as a means to send targeted ads your way.

Why is Google spying on us?

Why would Google spy on its users, though? The answer to that is simple: advertisement. For a big company, understanding its users’ habits, taste and wants is essential in order to achieve success. Knowing what the user needs at any given time, or, to put it bluntly, knowing what the user is willing to purchase, is the concern of every company in existence, Google included. Although Google is not the one that’s actively trying to sell you stuff, the company can sell your information to third parties. This information can be your age, sex or country, but also your search and browsing history. Third parties model their ads after the intel they get about you, so that they can give you a “personalized” experience online.

With all that said, there’s a pretty remarkable advantage that comes with being under Google’s surveillance, and that is tracking down illegal activities. Keeping a close eye on certain ill-intentioned people can be vital to uncover the criminal deeds they conduct on the Internet, and this can lead to well-deserved cases of criminal prosecution.

Browse the Internet safely with DuckDuckGo

If you have nothing to hide, meaning that you’re not partaking in any sketchy business, you might not care that much about Google supervising your online activities. Still, many honest people don’t appreciate this kind of attention. Those people will want to use a service that grants total protection of their data when they go on the Internet: this is what DuckDuckGo was created for!

DuckDuckGo is a Google Chrome extension that helps you protect your privacy by preventing your data from being stored while browsing the Internet with Chrome. How does it work, exactly? Once you’ve installed the extension, you’ll be able to set DuckDuckGo as your default search engine. Then, all you’ll need to do is search for your favorite websites through DuckDuckGo. This extension can also block trackers that are hidden on some websites and that give companies access to your data. And lastly, DuckDuckGo reinforces encryption, meaning that the websites you visit will have to use encrypted connection that will give you extra protection from prying eyes.

You can get DuckDuckGo in three ways:

– as an Android or iOS app (go here)

– as a Chrome extension (go here)

– or you can go here to start using the DuckDuckGo search engine right away