Every time you connect to the internet, your device is assigned an Internet Protocol (IP) address. This address consists of a unique set of four numbers separated by periods and is used to identify your device, network, or website. Your location settings and data are transmitted over the internet each time you perform an online activity like visiting a website.
However, cybercriminals can intercept your IP address and use it to track your online activities, launch cyberattacks, send spam, or steal your personally identifiable information. To avoid this, concealing your IP address and location makes it difficult for criminals to find your exact location.
If you're concerned about your online security and privacy, it's important to modify your PC location settings. In doing so, you can make it harder for cybercriminals to locate your IP address and protect your personal data from theft. This article can guide you on when and how to adjust your location settings to stay safe online.
Using a virtual private network, or VPN, is the simplest way to change your PC's location. One of the primary reasons to use a VPN is to prevent online tracking, and it can also help you access content that may be restricted in your geographical area, such as certain Netflix programs.
To change your desktop's location, first, choose a VPN and purchase a subscription. Then, download the VPN service via an app or browser extension and sign in to your user account. Next, choose a server in a different geographic location and connect to it.
Similarly, changing your location on an iPhone is also possible with a VPN. Download a VPN app from the Apple Store and sign in with your personal license. When prompted for permission to access the VPN, click "Allow." Access the VPN app, choose your desired geographic location, and click "Connect" to establish your VPN connection.
While your IP address doesn’t give away your exact location, it can be used in conjunction with your GPS location to pinpoint where you live or access the internet. That’s why it’s important to update your location permissions and use a VPN to mask your IP.
To ensure data safety when selecting a VPN for your family, there are several key features to consider. Along with a robust encryption standard, it's essential to look for VPNs with no-logging policies and kill switches.
Opting for a VPN service with an unwavering no-logging policy is crucial for data protection. It's advisable to choose a provider that never stores your location settings and has policies supported by reputable audits.
Furthermore, it may be beneficial to choose a service with a kill switch, an added layer of security that automatically disconnects your internet connection if the VPN connection is abruptly terminated. This feature guarantees anonymity for your PC location at all times.
For your convenience, I have compiled a list of the top four VPN choices for 2023.
| VPN |  NordVPN |
|  Surfshark |  CyberGhost |
| Encryption | AES-256 bit | AES-256 bit | AES-256 bit | AES-256 bit |
| Logging | No logs - PwC audited | No logs - Cure 53 audited | No logs - Cure 53 audited | No logs - Deloitte audited |
| Kill switch | Included | Included | Included | Included |
| Cost | $3.49/month | $8.32/month | $2.49/month | $2.19/month |
NORDVPN has a vast network of servers in 59 countries, with security features that block malware, corrupted websites, and web ads. Its apps are available not only for Windows but also for Mac, Android, and iOS, and it allows up to six devices to connect to its VPN at once.
ExpressVPN offers Network Lock, the best kill switch feature for Windows and Mac. It also allows up to five simultaneous logins and protects all your devices by activating the VPN on your main router.
SURFSHARK is a budget-friendly VPN service with a kill switch feature available on iOS, Windows, Mac, and Android. Its CleanWeb feature blocks malicious ads, trackers, and links from damaging your PC, and it allows unlimited simultaneous logins.
CyberGhost VPN is an excellent option for hiding your VPN access and activities, with 8,900 servers in 91 countries. It connects with Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS and allows up to seven devices to access the software simultaneously. This is particularly useful for users living in a VPN-restricted location or those seeking an additional layer of security.
Here are the steps to clear your PC's location history manually:
- Access the Start Menu on your Windows PC.
- Choose Settings.
- Select Privacy.
- Click on Location.
- Choose Clear under Location History.
Following these steps will clear all of your prior location tracking data on your Windows PC, providing you with an additional layer of privacy and security. Without a VPN, I advise doing this daily, especially if your dealing with cryptocurrencies. Not doing so, would be the equivelent of leaving your safe open at the house when you leave.
To turn your location settings on or off on your personal computer, follow these steps:
- Access your Start Menu
- Choose Settings
- Choose Privacy
- Click on Location
- Hit Change
- Select Location for This Device
- Move the switch to the on or off position
- When your location settings are on, your PC can use data from your Wi-Fi or GPS connections to learn about your device’s location, which is used by websites to provide you with location-based content
- Turning your location settings off will prevent your PC from collecting location data, which can enhance your privacy and security
- However, leaving your location settings on can be convenient if you frequently use location-based services or search for local information
In addition to disabling your location settings, it's important to review and control your online privacy settings to prevent your web browser or websites from retaining your location information.
To set a default location on your PC, follow these steps:
- Access your Start Menu
- Choose Settings
- Choose Privacy
- Click on Location
- Click "Set default" listed under Default location
- Windows Maps will open
- Follow the prompts to set your location
Setting a default location can provide convenience in your daily life by allowing applications and services to use default data when they can't determine your exact location.
CONCLUSION:
In today's world, technology has brought us many conveniences, but it's important to be aware of the potential risks. While there may be times when you want to share your location with trusted websites, you should take steps to protect your privacy and security.
Here are some actions you can take to safeguard your location information:
- Use a VPN service to browse the internet anonymously.
- Regularly clear your location history to erase past data.
- Turn off your location settings when not needed to limit tracking.
- Consider setting a default location to provide convenience while protecting your exact location.
By taking these precautions, you can reduce the risk of unwanted individuals accessing your location information and causing harm. Stay vigilant and review your location settings to ensure the safety and security of your devices and online activity.
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