How to Browse the Internet Safely

Using technology securely has become a necessity, with countless threats constantly seeking new ways to compromise your devices and access your personal information. A successful cyberattack means serious damage to your devices. Do not let the internet be a challenging place for you. Learn how to browse the internet cautiously and avoid being a victim of cyber danger. 

Why is Internet Safety Crucial?

Undoubtedly, the internet does make our lives easier, but it also brings some threats to it, such as spam, privacy invasion, identity theft, and cyber espionage etc. This is why internet security, also known as online security or e-safety, is crucial. Internet security means being knowledgeable regarding the nature of the possible threats you could face while browsing the internet. It is time for you to emphasize the positive aspects of digital life and learn secure web browsing tips.

Key Tips to Browse on Internet Safely

Here are the key tips or practices you could follow for smart browsing on the internet carefully. 

Keep Your Browser Updated

Using an outdated browser can leave you exposed to security threats. Updates fix bugs, patch security holes, and improve the browser’s capability to block pop-ups and malicious websites. Make a routine of checking for updates regularly and enable automatic updates if available.

Adjust Your Browser’s Privacy Settings

Customizing privacy settings is essential for secure browsing. It blocks trackers, avoids pop-ups, and limits data collection.

Here’s how to enhance your browser’s privacy:

• Safari (Mac): Preferences > Privacy > Check ‘Prevent cross-site tracking’
• Firefox: Preferences/Options > Privacy & Security > Content Blocking > Check ‘Always’ under “Send websites a ‘Do Not Track’ signal”
• Chrome: Settings > Advanced > Content Settings > Pop-ups and redirects > Turn on “Blocked”
• Edge: Settings > Privacy, search, and services > Choose Balanced
• Internet Explorer: Tools > Internet Options > Privacy tab > Set slider to Medium > Check “Turn on pop-up blocker”
• Vivaldi: Settings > Privacy > Cookies > Check ‘Block Third-Party Cookies’

Be Cautious with Downloads

Avoid downloading files, apps, or attachments from unidentified or suspicious sources. Even fun-looking games or music files can hide malware. Only use reliable websites, and always scan downloaded files with antivirus software before opening them. If something looks off, it’s better not to risk it.

Use Privacy-Focused Search Engines

Search engines like Google track your search history and create a profile based on your online behavior. Switch to privacy-first alternatives like DuckDuckGo, Startpage, or Qwant. These don’t store your personal data or track your search habits, helping keep your privacy online.

Delete Cookies Regularly

Cookies track behavior, save preferences, and autofill forms. While helpful, they compromise privacy and can be misused. Clearing cookies regularly reduces your online footprint.

How to delete cookies:

• Safari (Mac): Preferences > Privacy > Manage Website Data > Remove All
• Safari (iOS): Settings > Safari > Clear History and Website Data
• Firefox: Options/Preferences > Privacy & Security > Cookies and Site Data > Clear Data
• Chrome: Settings > Privacy and Security > Clear Browsing Data > Check ‘Cookies and other site data’ > Clear Data
• Edge: Settings > Privacy, search, and services > Clear browsing data > Select ‘Cookies and other site data’ > Clear now
• Internet Explorer: Tools > Internet Options > Browsing History > Delete > Check ‘Cookies and website data’ > Delete

Use a VPN for Encrypted Browsing

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet connection and hides your IP address, making it challenging for hackers, advertisers, or even your internet service provider to track your activity. VPNs are specifically useful when browsing on public Wi-Fi networks.

Use an Ad Blocker

Online ads are not only annoying, they can carry concealed malware (a method called “malvertising”). An ad blocker helps enhance page loading speed, declutters your browsing experience, and adds a layer of security by blocking potentially harmful ads and trackers.

Don’t Let Browsers Save Your Passwords

While convenient, saving passwords in browsers is risky. Disable this and use a dedicated password manager instead.

Here’s how to disable Password-Saving Features in browsers:

• Safari (Mac): Safari > Preferences > Autofill > Turn off all Autofill settings
• Firefox: Options > Privacy and Security > Turn off ‘Remember Logins and Passwords’
• Chrome: Settings > Passwords > Turn off ‘Offer to Save Passwords’
• Edge: Settings > Passwords > Turn off ‘Offer to Save Passwords’
• Internet Explorer: Tools > Internet Options > Content > AutoComplete Settings > Delete AutoComplete history
• Opera: Settings > Privacy & security > Autofill > Passwords > Disable ‘Offer to save passwords’
• Vivaldi: Settings > Privacy > Passwords > Uncheck ‘Save Webpage Passwords’

Create Strong Passwords & Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Weak or reused passwords cause many breaches. Use long, complex passwords with letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using personal info and enable 2FA for an extra security step.

Recommended 2FA apps:

• Google Authenticator (iOS / Android)
• Microsoft Authenticator (iOS / Android)
• Twilio Authy (iOS / Android)
• LastPass Authenticator (iOS / Android)
• TOTP Authenticator (iOS / Android)
• Aegis Authenticator (Android)
• andOTP (Android)

Only Visit HTTPS Websites

When visiting websites, look for “HTTPS” at the start of the URL or a padlock icon in the address bar, indicating the site uses encryption to secure your data. Avoid sites considered “Not Secure” (HTTP), precisely when entering sensitive details like passwords or payment details.

How can Credentius keep you Safe Online?

Staying secure online requires smart habits like updating browsers, preventing risky downloads, deleting cookies, and using strong passwords. Effective password management is crucial, and Credentius Password Manager makes this easier by firmly storing, generating, and auto filling strong passwords across all your devices. From personal use to business, Credentius streamlines password security and helps secure you from cyber threats, giving you peace of mind while surfing the internet.

Author: Amna Shahid

Amna Shahid, a technical content writer, is an expert in simplifying intricate notions and composing captivating narratives to participate and convey technical information efficiently. With a devotion to brilliance in this dynamic technical writing field, Amna is open to collaborating and new possibilities in this succeeding tech realm.

Reviewed By: admin

Credentius is a reliable and user-friendly password manager designed to simplify and secure your digital life. Whether for personal or enterprise use, Credentius creates strong passwords, stores them securely, and provides seamless access across devices, ensuring enhanced security and effective password management.