INTERNET SECURITY FOR BROWSERS (BEST PRACTICES)

Accessing websites is made possible by a web browser. The browser obtains the page’s files from a web server once a user requests a web page from a specific website, displays the page on the user’s screen, and completes the process. Desktops, laptops, tablets, and cellphones all use browsers as do other types of hardware. The number of browser users worldwide was estimated to be 4.9 billion in 2020 and has only increased since then.

The browser stores cookies that it receives from numerous websites while you browse. Some of these include site preferences or login information. Browsers often have a section in the menu for removing cookies because some are used for tracking user behaviour over extended periods of time.

Additionally, browsers save cache files, which are temporary files designed to quicken website load times. However, sensitive data like pictures and other media that you may have accessed could also be present in these files.

It’s possible that browsers have loopholes that hackers and other malicious individuals can take advantage of. Your login credentials and other sensitive information, as well as your personal data, may be at risk as a result of these loopholes.

You can take a number of precautions when using a browser to safeguard your security and privacy. You can routinely delete your browser’s cache and history, encrypt your internet traffic with a virtual private network (VPN), and employ privacy-focused browser extensions and settings.

STEPS TO PROTECT YOUR DATA

Clear Your Browser’s Cache And History: 

Step 1: Open your web browser

Step 2: Navigate to the menu option

Step 3: Click on settings.

Step 4: In the settings search bar, search for Clear Browsing Data.

Step 5: Check the boxes for the Data you would like to clear.

Step 6: Click on Clear Data.

Encrypt Your Internet Traffic With A Virtual Private Network (VPN):

Step 1: Choose a VPN service provider. There are numerous VPN service providers in the market. Pick the one that best fits your demands and budget.

Step 2: Download and install the VPN provider’s software on your device once you’ve made your decision.

Step 3: Open the VPN application and log in using your credentials.

Step 4: Determine a server location. The server location to which you want to connect should be chosen. Your internet traffic will be encrypted, and your IP address will be concealed.

Step 5: Connect to the VPN server. Click on the “Connect” button to connect to the VPN server.

Step 6: Confirm your connection. Check your IP address and location after connecting to ensure that you are connected.

Step 7: Browse the internet securely, you can now browse the internet securely, knowing that your internet traffic is encrypted and your online activity is private.

Step 8: After concluding your internet browsing, disconnect from the VPN server.

SECURITY FEATURES OF SOME TOP BROWSERS

1. Google Chrome:  Even though Chrome is one of the most widely used browsers on the planet, it has come under fire for its methods of data harvesting. It provides a variety of privacy and security features, such as safe browsing, which alerts users when they visit a potentially dangerous website, and the option to wipe browsing history and cache. To stay ahead of security threats, Chrome also updates itself automatically.
2. Mozilla Firefox :The option to prevent third-party cookies and tracking scripts is just one of Firefox’s many notable privacy features. In addition, a number of security features are available, such as malware and phishing protection as well as the option to delete browser history. Firefox is open-source, which allows users who possess the necessary technical know-how to view the source code and make improvements.
3. Safari: Apple devices by default use Safari, which has robust privacy protections including intelligent tracking prevention, which prevents third parties from tracking your internet behaviour. Sand-boxing is another tool used by Safari to stop harmful websites from obtaining your personal information. It has, however, drawn criticism for its patching times and security holes.
4. Microsoft Edge: With Microsoft Defender Smart Screen and other robust security features, Edge is the newest browser from Microsoft that helps shield users from malware and phishing assaults. Additionally, Edge has tracking avoidance tools that prevent third parties from monitoring your browsing activities. It’s important to remember that Edge shares the same Chromium engine as Chrome.

Published on 2023/05/10