Seven security tips for every browser

3 min read

Your browser is one of the most important programs on your computer—at home and at work. Although it is essential for connecting to the internet, only a few users give this software the attention it needs. Our tips help you browse more safely.

Keep your browser up to date.
Always enable automatic software updates. In some cases, you do not need to do anything at all. For example, Chrome updates itself when a new version is available. Microsoft Edge is maintained through Windows updates. In Firefox, you can find the option under „Einstellungen, Allgemein“.
Enable the filtering features.
More and more users are falling victim to phishing attempts or the distribution of malicious software. At the same time, this quickly helps browser manufacturers identify websites that may be dangerous. That is why you should enable the relevant protection features. In Edge, enable the Windows Defender „Smartscreen-Filter“ in „Settings“. In Chrome, under „Settings, Advanced“, you need to enable „Protect myself and my device from harmful websites“. In Firefox, you can find the „Privacy & Security“ section in „Settings“. There, enable „Protection against fraudulent content and malicious software“.
Prevent automatic downloads.
Most malware infections are caused by downloading files. It only takes one quick click on a link for a file to be transferred. That is why you should turn off automatic downloads. You will then need to manually choose where to save a file. The benefit is that you will notice the download. In Chrome, select “Settings, Advanced settings” and, in the “Downloads” section, select “Ask where to save each file before downloading.” In Edge, under “Settings, Advanced settings,” turn on “Ask me what to do with each download.” In Firefox, you can find the “Always ask you where to save files” option directly in “Settings.”
Enable tracking protection.
All browsers offer options to help protect you from having your online activity analyzed. Use these options to protect yourself from tracking .
Avoid Java.
The Java programming language lets developers create applications that run on Windows, Mac OS, and Linux and look the same. Unfortunately, there have repeatedly been some major security vulnerabilities in the components that must be installed on your system for a Java program to run. If you do not absolutely need such an application on your computer, for example for your finances, it is best to avoid installing Java.
Do not save passwords or data in your browser
Saving passwords or form entries directly in your browser may seem convenient, but it is also dangerous. Security vulnerabilities in the program code could allow these centralized databases to be copied from your computer without your knowledge. If you want to manage your passwords centrally, use a password manager instead. It is best to turn off this convenience feature in your browser. In Chrome, you can find the option under "Settings, Advanced." There, select "AutoFill settings" and "Manage passwords." You will then find the switches for disabling the mechanism. In Firefox, you can find the options under "Settings," in the "Privacy & Security" section. Edge's "AutoFill settings" are available under "Settings, Advanced settings."
Install additional security software.
Your computer should always have up-to-date antivirus software that detects and combats dangerous downloads or scripts.

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