Protect Your Twitter Privacy: Limit Data Sharing with Advertisers

In April 2020, Twitter started sharing more user data with advertisers, including ad views, interactions, and your phone's tracking ID. A notification informed users that the option to control mobile app advertising metrics was removed—except for those in the EU or UK with extra protections.

As a privacy expert with years guiding users on data control, I've tested these settings extensively. While full protection isn't possible, you can still minimize sharing. Head to the "Personalization and data" page to adjust. Here's how:

Using the Twitter Mobile App:

• Tap the three lines in the upper left corner.
• Go to "Settings & Privacy" > "Privacy & Security" > "Personalization & Data".

Using the Web Version of Twitter:

• Log in to your Twitter account.
• Direct link to Personalization and Data (assumed standard URL).

We'll focus on web steps, as they're most reliable across devices.

Turn Off Ad Personalization

On the "Personalization & Data" page, review ad settings using your inferred identity, location, and more. Read the descriptions—they reveal a lot. Toggle off at the top to disable all, or customize individually for targeted control.

Review and Manage Your Twitter Data

Scroll down and click "Your Twitter Data" to see what Twitter tracks. Audit and act—it's eye-opening. Key sections:

• Account: Basics like name, age range, verification, languages. (Twitter once guessed I speak German—hilarious error!)
• Account History: Connected accounts and locations. Revoke unwanted app access via Connected Apps; disable location in settings.
• Apps, Devices, and Information: Devices/browsers Twitter tracks. Revoke inferred identity permissions here. Also links to Connected Apps.
• Account Activity: Blocked/muted accounts.
• Interests and Advertising Data: Explore "Twitter Interests" (one account had 742!). Disable Partner Interests/Custom Audiences on the main page. Odd ones like "NBA videos" pop up despite no sports interest.
• Download Archive: Grab your full history.

For maximum privacy, delete your Twitter history entirely. These proven steps, based on real-world use, empower you to reclaim control.