Surfshark is built with privacy at its core, but getting the most out of it requires knowing which settings to enable and when. While the default configuration is secure, fine-tuning Surfshark’s privacy settings can give you more control, stronger protection, and a browsing experience tailored to your needs.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the key privacy settings in Surfshark’s apps, explain what they do, and show you how to adjust them for optimal security.

1. Kill Switch

What it does: The Kill Switch is a fail-safe feature that blocks your internet connection if the VPN disconnects unexpectedly. This prevents your real IP address or browsing activity from being exposed.

How to enable it:

1. Open the Surfshark app.

2. Go to Settings → VPN Settings.

3. Toggle Kill Switch on.
   
   

When to use it: Always. It’s especially important if you’re torrenting, streaming in restricted regions, or using public Wi-Fi.

2. CleanWeb

What it does: CleanWeb blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites. This not only improves privacy but can speed up page loading by removing unwanted scripts.

How to enable it:

1. Go to Settings → Features.

2. Toggle CleanWeb on.
   
   

When to use it: Keep it enabled unless you’re visiting websites where you need to see ads (e.g., some news sites).

3. Bypasser (Split Tunneling)

What it does: Bypasser lets you choose which apps or websites use the VPN and which connect directly to the internet.

How to enable it:

1. Go to Settings → Features → Bypasser.

2. Select apps or websites to exclude from VPN routing.
   
   

When to use it: For apps that block VPN connections (like certain banking apps) or for local services that need your real IP.

4. NoBorders Mode

What it does: NoBorders helps you connect to Surfshark in regions with VPN restrictions by offering servers optimized for bypassing censorship.

How to enable it:

1. Go to Settings → VPN Settings.

2. Enable NoBorders.
   
   

When to use it: Only when you’re in restricted networks (e.g., certain countries or corporate firewalls).

5. MultiHop

What it does: MultiHop routes your traffic through two VPN servers instead of one, adding another layer of encryption and making tracking your location more difficult.

How to enable it:

1. In the server list, select MultiHop.

2. Choose your entry and exit locations.
   
   

When to use it: For maximum privacy in sensitive activities — but expect slower speeds due to the extra encryption layer.

6. VPN Protocol Selection

What it does: The VPN protocol determines how your data is encrypted and transmitted. Surfshark offers WireGuard, OpenVPN (UDP/TCP), and IKEv2.

How to change it:

1. Go to Settings → VPN Settings → Protocol.

2. Choose your preferred option.
   
   

When to use it:

• WireGuard for fastest speeds

• OpenVPN TCP for maximum stability

• IKEv2 for mobile network switching
  
  

7. GPS Spoofing (Android Only)

What it does: Matches your device’s GPS coordinates to your VPN location, preventing apps from detecting your real location.

How to enable it:

1. On Android, go to Settings → Features.

2. Enable GPS Spoofing.
   
   

When to use it: For location-based apps, streaming services, or when avoiding geotargeted ads.

Best Practices for Privacy in Surfshark

• Enable Kill Switch and CleanWeb by default.

• Use MultiHop only when privacy outweighs speed.

• Switch protocols if your network blocks VPN traffic.

• Regularly clear cookies and browser history to prevent tracking outside the VPN.