Browser Security Alert: Why Browser Privacy Settings Are Important

Summary: This 2-3 minute article explores what you can do to make your web browser as secure as possible. Learn how to change browser privacy settings to make your online activities more secure. Contact GEEKAID Computer and Network Support, the IT experts, at https://www.geek-aid.com/ to discuss your web browser security and other imperatives for keeping your computer system safe and fully functional.

Browser Security Starts With Your Browser Settings

In the IT world, web browsers have been around for a long time. However, with a new, expanded remote-access workforce, browser security isn’t always in step with other vital areas of cyber security. Although browser developers are constantly updating software with security fixes, SMB and home users must stay vigilant in taking the steps necessary for their browser’s privacy. Here are a few suggestions on how to change browser settings to make your web-related activities more secure:

• Disable All Saved Passwords – Most web browsers include a built-in password manager. Because we have more and more passwords to protect, password managers are, on the surface, handy tools. However, by using a browser's password manager, you are leaving your most private and potentially valuable credentials stored in one place if your device is lost or stolen. Anyone possessing your device can log into every account you have saved in the manager. Even if your device is not lost, hackers can steal stored credentials using malicious software. Here’s how to disable the option to save passwords in the browser's password manager:
  • Chrome Browser Settings – In the Chrome browser, Open Settings > Select Passwords > Uncheck the “Save Passwords” and “Autofill” boxes.
  • Edge Settings – For the Microsoft Edge browser, Open Settings > Passwords & Autofill > Toggle to Disable All Functions.
  • Firefox Settings – Click the Menu Button > Choose Preferences > Select Privacy & Security > Scroll down to “Logins and Passwords” and Click on the Saved Logins button.
• Get Security Extensions – Security and Privacy Extensions are small “plug-ins” that add functionality and privacy to your browser. They help block your browser’s access to known malicious websites, IP addresses and cookies.
• Disable Unnecessary Extensions – While extensions add many different types of functionality, one must be careful about the extensions enabled. Malicious extensions have even been found in online App Stores. Therefore, it is essential to know what an extension does, whether or not it’s from a trusted source and whether or not you need it.
• Install Robust Anti-Virus Software – Browser Security should be part of whatever anti-virus software you install. Powerful anti-virus software is designed to constantly update its database of known malicious software and websites that have been proven to invade your system with malicious code.
• Do Not Use Autofill – Although Autofill makes it quick and easy to log in to accounts and complete online forms, it opens the door for hackers to steal your credentials. Even though it might take 30 seconds longer than the automated process, it is better for you to type credentials and forms manually every time.
• Use a Sandbox Application – A Sandbox is an application that operates in a safe zone that exists only in the RAM and blocks software from being written to the hard drive. As soon as a sandbox is closed, the application and data are wiped clean.
• Control Browser Cookies – Cookies are small bits of data that websites store to remember your preferences and enhance the user’s browser experience. However, if infected with malicious code, cybercriminals can steal those bits of private information and use them for nefarious purposes.
• Update Your Browser – It is always worth waiting before downloading and installing a new release of browser updates. Sometimes early on, the new releases have bugs and vulnerabilities that the developers don’t always notice immediately. Therefore, waiting for a new browser update to be reviewed and the bugs worked out might not be a bad idea. However, once new updates are deemed fully functional, it is wise to keep your browser updated, as new releases often include vital security fixes.

Home and Business IT Services to The Rescue

Unfortunately, many people take their browser security for granted or don’t believe they need to engage the assistance of professional IT Consulting Services. As a result, many users might try to install and maintain their browser security only to find that they’re in over their heads. IT professionals can keep your system running smoothly and securely from the start. A modest investment in professional IT assistance is a smart way to protect computers, networks, mobile devices and all your data while freeing up your time to concentrate on more important tasks.

GEEK-AID^® Computer and Network Support provides world-class IT consulting services and specializes in customized network design and support, computer repairs, installations, updates, and maintenance for homes and small to midsized businesses. GEEK-AID^®'s team of experts is comprised of top specialists in different areas of IT services, serving clients on-site and remotely for Macs, PCs and all your connected devices, including new ones that are part of the ever-expanding IoT. They can answer all your IT questions from “Is the web browser I use secure?” to “When do I need to upgrade my company’s hardware?” More importantly, when your home or business computer goes down, they will perform on-site computer repairs if required. And the GEEK-AID^® team doesn't clock out at five o'clock on Friday. They are available to you 24/7, remotely or in person, to ensure your computers, network and data stay up-to-date, healthy and secure. As your business grows, expands its network and adds more devices such as smart controls, smart devices, wireless access and remote access, your network's cybercrime vulnerability and need for cyber security will grow, too. In addition to maintaining the hardware, software and security, employee training and regular IT support should be ongoing. New users and devices will require additional training to use those devices efficiently and securely. Inter-related concerns include hardware and software installation and maintenance, repair, cyber security and network protection. These concerns must be addressed consistently and proactively to best support the seamless operation of your system, minimizing costly and time-consuming mistakes.

Call (877) GEEK-AID (877-433-5243) to discuss how they can install, repair, maintain and secure your home or SMB computer network and all its devices.