Do you wonder on how to improve security and privacy on internet browser? The internet can be an incredibly powerful tool, but it also carries many risks. With the rise of cybercrime and data breaches, ensuring your privacy is protected when browsing online is more important than ever.
The purpose of this article is to cover 13 tips that should help one with fending off against threats lurking online. After reading the information below, you will be familiar with how to strengthen the security on an internet browser.
1. Use a Secure Web Browser
It’s essential to choose a secure internet browser that offers protection from malicious attacks. Popular browsers, including Chrome and Firefox, have built-in security features like sandboxing, which helps to keep your computer safe from viruses, malware, and other threats.
At the same time, you can also look for alternatives like Opera, which is a browser known for its security features and reliability. Ultimately, you need to make sure your browser is up to date with the latest versions so you can benefit from these security measures.
2. Use a VPN
Virtual private networks (VPNs) are one of the best ways to protect your online activity from prying eyes. A VPN will encrypt all of your traffic and route it through its own secure servers, preventing anyone from intercepting or monitoring your activity. Additionally, many VPN services offer additional features like adblocking and malware scanners for extra safety.
As a rule of thumb, avoid virtual private networks that offer free services. The temptation to not pay is understandable, but it comes at a cost of exposing yourself. Free VPNs lack the necessary security features and are not recommended.
3. Delete Your Browsing History Regularly
You should know how to delete Safari history on Mac or another device or remove the browsing history from other browsers. It is recommended to clear out it every few weeks so nobody can see what websites you have been visiting recently. Additionally, delete any download files older than 7 days old, so no one has access if left behind after exiting an account session.
4. Check Website Security
Before entering any sensitive information into a website, make sure it is secure by looking at the URL bar for HTTPS in the address tab rather than HTTP (the “S” stands for “secure”).
You should check for other signs that the landing page is reputable too – look out for logos like Verisign or McAfee Secure that indicate the site has been scanned for malicious software and verified as safe for you to use. As soon as there is a red flag on a landing page, ignore it. At the end of the day, it is better to be safe than sorry, so boost security on an internet browser before anything bad happens.
5. Don’t Follow Links in Emails
Never click on links that come from emails sent from unknown sources; they could be malicious link bait used by hackers to steal your personal information or install malware onto your computer system without you knowing about it. Similar to shady landing pages, do not pay attention to suspicious emails. Delete them and have some peace of mind.
6. Ditch Unsecured Wi-Fi Connections
Avoid using public Wi-Fi connections in places such as airports, hotels, cafes, etc., if possible – these are unsecured networks where any user can check what you’re doing online if they want to.
If you cannot help but to use the public internet because you have no other option, at the very least, invest in a reliable and secure virtual private network and improve your security on an internet browser.
7. Disable Third-Party Cookies
Third Party-Cookies allow websites access to information stored on other sites such as login details or search history – which can be used by companies to target ads towards you based on what they know about you already. To increase security and decrease tracking efforts by major companies, disable the cookies in your settings menu within the browser.
8. Set Up Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Whenever possible, set up two-factor authentication (2FA) on all accounts that support it. This requires you to provide two forms of verification – such as a generated code sent via text message or email – when logging in or accessing certain functions on websites. 2FA adds an extra layer of protection against potential hacking attempts or identity theft scenarios.
9. Consider Using Privacy Plugins
Privacy plugins are available, which can help block trackers from monitoring what sites users visit on their browsers – some even work across multiple devices. These are great if users want more control over who knows what they do online and don’t wish any personal data being collected without their permission.
10. Use Strong Passwords & Change Them Often
Passwords should always be unique and complex – not something easily guessed like ‘password1234’ – because hackers could use this information against them if obtained illegally. For added security, users should also change their passwords regularly (at least every few months) ro avoid getting hacked & losing valuable data.
It helps to rely on a password manager where you can store and access login credentials with a master password. Do not tantalize yourself with memorizing new combinations.
11. Disable Autofill Features
Autofill features store user data such as addresses & credit card numbers in order for them not to have to input all this info each time they shop online. However, this could also mean someone else might potentially gain access if they know how to. Disable autofill whenever possible & always remember to delete anything saved within autofill settings after making purchases.
12. Check App & Software Permissions
Apps often request permission before being downloaded – users should double-check exactly who & what these permissions give access to before downloading.
If unsure, look up reviews / feedback surrounding specific apps / software first before permitting them full reign over one’s device. Heed the word of other users and determine whether the application is reliable or whether you should avoid it.
13. Install Anti-Virus Software
Installing anti-virus software is vital when protecting yourself against malware & unwanted pop-ups. Most reliable anti-virus programs feature regular updates meaning any new viruses found will be instantly detected & removed. Your anti-virus should be running all the time. Please feel free to comment and share how to improve your security on an internet browser.