Archives - Web Browser

What are cookies?

When you browse the Internet, information about your computer may be collected and stored. This information might be general information about your computer (such as IP address, the domain you used to connect (e.g., .edu, .com, .net), and the type of browser you used). It might also be more specific information about your browsing habits […]

Set your web browsers security settings to the highest level

Your web browser is your primary connection to the rest of the Internet, and multiple applications may rely on your browser, or elements within your browser, to function. Many web applications try to enhance your browsing experience by enabling different types of functionality, but this functionality might be unnecessary and may leave you susceptible to […]

Look out for Google Chrome extension malware

Extensions enhance web browsers. At the same time, they can create security risks. For example, Google Chrome is probably just another trusted application to your operating system and antivirus software, meaning it – and its extensions – can run code without a hitch. Some extensions are malicious, though. Look for unusual names, obscure publishers and […]

Consider alternatives to Google

Google is a unique resource, albeit one with some significant drawbacks in terms of how extensively it catalogs your activities, from your search history to your geolocation. The privacy-focused search engine DuckDuckGo offers similar results with no tracking, reducing the risk of sensitive data falling into the wrong hands.

Check for typos when typing out URLs

Typosquatting is the practice of hosting a website at an address that is similar to a popular URL yet off by a character or two, turning it into a trap for anyone making a common typo. Look carefully at what you type or, better yet, just save frequently visited sites as bookmarks and navigate to them from there […]

Use private browsing on shared computers

All major web browsers provide options for private (aka incognito) browsing. In this mode, a browser does not remember your visited sites, account logins and HTTP cookies (i.e.,the digital files allowing websites to track you). Accordingly, you gain extra protection from others trying to use your saved credentials or look at your history, especially on […]