Browser Security
Why Secure My Browser?
Securing your web browser (i.e. Internet Explorer, Firefox, and Safari) can prevent a variety of problems from spyware being installed without your knowledge to intruders taking control of your computer.
There is an increasing threat from software attacks that take advantage of vulnerable web browsers. This problem is worsened by a number of factors, including the following:
- Many users have a tendency to click on links without considering the risks of their actions.
- Web page addresses can be disguised or take you to an unexpected site.
- Many web browsers are configured to provide increased functionality at the cost of decreased security.
- New security vulnerabilities are often discovered after the software is configured and packaged by the manufacturer.
- Computer systems and software packages may be bundled with additional software, which increases the number of vulnerabilities that may be attacked.
- Third-party software may not have a mechanism for receiving security updates.
- Many websites require that users enable certain features or install more software, putting the computer at additional risk.
- Many users do not know how to configure their web browsers securely.
- Many users are unwilling to enable or disable functionality as required to secure their web browser.
As a result, exploiting vulnerabilities in web browsers has become a popular way for attackers to compromise computer systems.
How to Secure Your Web Browser
Some software features that provide functionality to a web browser, such as ActiveX, Java, Scripting (JavaScript, VBScript, etc.), may also introduce vulnerabilities to the computer system.
Some web browsers permit you to fully disable the use of these technologies, while others may permit you to enable features on a per-site basis.
Go to the individual browsers own home page for up-to-date information on their security and privacy settings.
Features You Should Think About Using:
- Don’t remember my history.
- Don’t accept third party cookies.
- Clear history when browser closes.
- Warn me when sites try to install add-ons.
- Block reported attack sites.
- Don’t remember passwords.
- Automatically install browser updates.
- Don’t autofill web forms.
- Don’t allow sites to show pop-ups.
- Ask when a site wants to run a plugin.
- Don’t run javascript.
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