# Boosting Privacy with iCloud+: Essential Features to Explore
In recent times, Apple has made remarkable advancements in improving user privacy through its iCloud service, rebranding it as iCloud+ to signify its enhanced functionalities beyond basic storage. For individuals who value privacy, three prominent features of iCloud+ are crucial to utilize.
## iCloud Private Relay
Debuted in 2021, iCloud Private Relay operates similarly to a VPN, offering an extra layer of privacy while surfing the web. When users browse websites using Safari on their Apple devices, this feature encrypts both DNS requests and HTTP traffic. The information is then directed through two distinct proxies. First, Apple eliminates the user’s IP address while keeping a general idea of their geographical location. The request is then routed through another proxy to access the desired webpage.
Although iCloud Private Relay is restricted to Safari and does not function system-wide, it effectively protects users from websites that could monitor their online activities. This feature is available to all iCloud+ subscribers, starting at just $0.99 per month.
## Hide My Email
Another privacy-focused feature launched in 2021 is “Hide My Email.” This tool enables iCloud+ subscribers to create unique, temporary email addresses when registering for online services, newsletters, or subscriptions.
The main benefits of this feature include:
1. **Spam Prevention**: By utilizing a disposable email address, users can safeguard their personal email from being sold or exposed to data brokers, greatly minimizing spam.
2. **Simple Management**: If users choose to stop receiving communications from a specific service, they can easily deactivate the temporary email address, effectively halting any unwelcome correspondence. This feature presents a straightforward way to maintain privacy without compromising functionality.
In conclusion, “Hide My Email” delivers a practical and privacy-oriented solution for managing online interactions.
## Advanced Data Protection
While Apple prioritizes privacy throughout its products, iCloud data security can be significantly augmented through the use of Advanced Data Protection. Although iCloud data is encrypted by default, this feature implements end-to-end encryption for all iCloud services.
With end-to-end encryption, even Apple cannot decode user data, as only the user holds the decryption key. However, this also implies that if a user misplaces their recovery key, they face the risk of permanently losing access to their data since Apple cannot assist in retrieval.
Advanced Data Protection secures important categories such as iCloud Backups, iMessage texts, and Photos, ensuring that this information remains inaccessible to Apple. For those seeking a deeper insight into this feature, further resources are available.
## Conclusion
Apple’s iCloud+ provides a collection of privacy-protecting features that address the needs of privacy-minded users. By taking advantage of iCloud Private Relay, Hide My Email, and Advanced Data Protection, subscribers can significantly bolster their online privacy and security. As digital privacy remains a critical issue, these tools empower users to take charge of their personal information.
