Secure Browsing
tag: [Engineer/Developer, Security Specialist]
Secure browsing is essential to protect your privacy and personal information while using the internet.
Best Practices for Secure Browsing
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Use HTTPS
- Always use HTTPS to ensure that your connection to websites is encrypted. Look for the padlock icon in the browser address bar.
- Most browser now enforce HTTPS by default, otherwise use browser extensions like HTTPS Everywhere to enforce HTTPS connections.
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Avoid Public Wi-Fi
- Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities. If you must use it, ensure you connect through a VPN to encrypt your internet traffic.
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Disable Third-Party Cookies
- Disable third-party cookies in your browser settings to prevent tracking by advertisers and other third parties.
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Use Private Browsing Mode
- Use private browsing mode to prevent your browser from storing your browsing history, cookies, and temporary files.
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Keep Your Browser Updated
- Regularly update your browser to ensure you have the latest security patches and features.
Tools for Secure Browsing
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Tor Browser
- A browser designed for anonymous browsing using the Tor network.
- Pros: Strong anonymity, easy to use.
- Cons: Slower browsing speeds, some websites block Tor traffic.
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Brave Browser
- A privacy-focused browser that blocks ads and trackers by default.
- Pros: Fast, blocks ads and trackers, built-in Tor support.
- Cons: Limited extensions compared to other browsers.
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uBlock Origin
- A browser extension that blocks ads, trackers, and malware.
- Pros: Highly configurable, efficient.
- Cons: Requires setup for optimal use.
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Privacy Badger
- A browser extension that blocks tracking cookies and ads.
- Pros: Easy to use, protects privacy.
- Cons: May block some legitimate content.
Secure Search Engines
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DuckDuckGo
- A search engine that does not track your searches or store your personal information.
- Pros: Strong privacy, no tracking.
- Cons: Less personalized search results.
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Start-page
- A search engine that uses Google’s search results but protects your privacy.
- Pros: Google search results, strong privacy.
- Cons: Slower than Google.
Best Practices
- Regularly clear your browsing history, cookies, and cache to remove any stored data.
- Only install trusted browser extensions and regularly review their permissions.
- Use a password manager to create and store strong, unique passwords for each website.