Web browser security is essential for every computer user. Browser is one of the most accessible means for malware to enter your device network. Browsers that are available with an OS are not configured in a secure default setting.
Complaints about insecure web browsing experiences are on the rise. It causes a variety of computer problems such as virus attacks, disruptive pop-ups, intruders taking device control, and more.
Here are some tips to secure Google Chrome, Apple Safari, Microsoft Edge, and other browsers to practice safe surfing.
How Do I Secure My Web Browser?
There are so many ways by which you can secure your internet browser and some of them we have already mentioned below here.
Update Browser Often
Frequent browser updates help to plug recently discovered security holes. Enable automatic updates to ensure that your browser has up-to-date protection against potential security threats. Avoid using an outdated web browser such as older versions of Microsoft’s Internet Explorer or Apple’s Safari for Windows.
If you’re using Windows 10, Microsoft Edge is the best option to choose. It is recommended to use Mozilla Firefox or Google Chrome by enabling automatic updates.
Take Advantage of Proxy Servers
Another effective way to secure your internet browser is by using residential proxies. These are IP addresses assigned to residential homes and are less likely to be identified as proxies. By using residential proxies, you can protect your online activities from being tracked or monitored by hackers or online surveillance tools. Residential proxies can also help you bypass geo-restrictions and access restricted content online. If you’re concerned about online security and privacy, investing in residential proxies can be a great solution to add an extra layer of protection to your online activities.
View and Delete Incognito History
There is a common misconception that using the private browsing or do-not-track feature of a web browser is completely secure. However, this option is useful when you don’t want to save information such as searched websites or pages on your device. But, it does not provide any additional protection from malware and viruses.
To ensure complete security while using private browsing, regularly view and delete the incognito history. To view private browsing history, search and open a command prompt from the search box.
Type the “ipconfig /displaydns” command to get detailed information about DNS cache history. To delete that history, perform the same steps except for using the ipconfig /flushdns command.
Uninstall Unnecessary Plugins
Enabling click-to-play plugins provide many important security benefits along with ensuring a saved CPU cycle and quick webpage loading. But, it is essential to uninstall any plugin you are no longer required to increase your web browser security.
For example, you may consider deleting Flash or Microsoft’s Silverlight. Regularly update the installed plugins you need by enabling the automatic update.
Have the Latest Antivirus & Firewall Protection
Alongside other security measures, install antivirus and firewall protection software on your device to prevent potential threats. Virus attacks and other risks can enter your computer even from highly recognized websites or trusted sources.
Although it may cost you a small investment, ultimately, it will save a huge amount of loss of various security risks. Use AI and big data to identify the attacks earlier. For better security, you may consider browsing the web via VPNs.
Utilize Security Browser Extensions
Try installing two privacy-focused browser extensions as it is worth the effort for a secured internet browser. These extensions or add-ons are small plug-in applications that enhance web browser functionality.
There are thousands of extensions for various actions. You can use security and privacy extensions for web security and privacy. It helps in enabling HTTPS mode to block IP addresses and cookies. It also prevents access to malicious sites.
Enable HTTPS-Only Mode
HTTPS-only mode is a highly secured protocol for websites as it encrypts earlier HTTP requests and responses for enhanced safety. Although most websites use this mode by default, sometimes you may visit a site that does not feature it.
To enable HTTPS, a site developer or owner should go with an SSL certificate and there is no need to spend a lot of money to purchase an SSL certificate. Several authorized resellers like CheapSSLShop offer huge discounts on SSL certificates.
So, it is good to enable this mode in your web browser to avoid navigating to unsecured sites. Also, avoid clicking any pop-ups without reading the message they carry.
Use Cautions for Browser Extensions
While browser extensions are great for web and browser customization, they may get exploited by malware. Often, they can do many other nasty things, such as track your browsing activity and hijack your web browser.
These problems may happen by adding extensions written by unscrupulous developers. So, use necessary caution by choosing extensions from reputable companies and avoiding nasty software and phishing sites.
Clear Browser Cache and Cookies
Limit tracking your searching data or history by regularly deleting unwanted cookies and removing cache history. Doing this helps in getting the latest version of a web page downloaded. It also prevents advertisements from following you around the internet. This action can be performed manually on nearly all major browsers.
However, if this may seem a hassle for you, use software options that automate this process for greater ease. Make sure to whitelist sites you frequently log in to prevent the need to re-enter login information again and again.
Disable Autofill
Since autofill automatically fills out forms on web pages with previously-stored user details, it quickly detects basic information. Autofill forms are a convenient feature that saves time and seems hassle-free, but it also poses a major risk to data.
Saved personal information like name, contact number, or address can be exploited. So, disable this feature for more security.
The Conclusion
Small business workers, home computer users, and anyone who works with limited IT support can implement these tips. If you need to leave your browser open for some weeks or months, quit the applications. This will be the best time when most browsers check for updates that comprise advanced features and security fixes.