What is browser security? How to keep your data safe online

Key takeaways:

• Browser security protects sensitive data from cyber threats, including phishing attempts, malware, and trojans.
• Common browser threats often hide behind everyday browsing actions.
• Checking your browser’s security settings, updating it regularly, and reviewing extensions help reduce risks dramatically.

Web browsers are where we search, shop, check email, and handle everyday tasks. And for small business owners, it’s practically a workspace. It’s where you manage orders, communicate with customers, and process payments.

With so much happening in one place, browser security becomes an integral feature. A vulnerable browser can expose you to threats hiding in everyday website activities.

Recent security updates underscore the seriousness of these risks. For example, Google recently patched 21 vulnerabilities in Chrome, including high-severity issues in components like WebGPU and video processing. This is why keeping your browser up to date is one of the simplest and most important steps in staying protected.

Leaving your browser vulnerable makes your device an easy target for malicious attacks. It exposes sensitive information, including bank account details, login credentials, personal information, and customer data.

To keep your browsing safe, it’s important to understand what browser security really means, how it works, and what you can do to strengthen it. Let’s break it down in a way that’s easy to follow.

What is browser security?

Browser security is the protection built into your web browser and the measures you take to keep it safe from threats, such as malware, phishing attacks, and data breaches. It’s a combination of tools and habits that work together to protect your personal or business information.

Modern browsers already help with this by checking for Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS) to confirm that your connection to a website is secure and that your information isn’t exposed to attackers. When websites use HTTPS to encrypt the data exchanged between browsers and the server.

Browsers also warn you about suspicious pages through technologies like Safe Browsing, blocking dangerous sites, harmful downloads, and malicious pop-up pages.

How browser security works

Browsers employ a combination of built-in defenses to safeguard you while browsing. Here’s how they protect you:

• They verify website authenticity: Your browser checks whether the site you’re visiting uses HTTPS and whether its security certificate is valid. This helps ensure you’re connecting to the real website.
• They warn you about unsafe pages: Modern browsers rely on threat-detection systems, such as Google Safe Browsing or Microsoft Defender SmartScreen, to notify users about suspicious websites.
• They isolate websites from each other: Through techniques such as sandboxing and site isolation, browsers keep websites separate within a secure environment.
• They block dangerous downloads and pop-ups: If a file appears suspicious or a pop-up is known to deliver malware, your browser can block it before it reaches your device.
• They protect stored information: Browsers encrypt stored data, making it harder for attackers to steal it.

Why is web browser security important?

Browser security is important because it protects you from online threats that can result in financial loss, stolen identities, data leakage, or unauthorized access to your personal or business accounts.

A compromised browser can expose your payment details and lead to financial loss from unauthorized purchases or fraudulent transfers. It can also give attackers enough personal information to steal your identity and open accounts in your name. And if they gain access to your personal or business accounts, they can lock you out, tamper with your or your customers’ data, or use your platforms to target others.

Strong browser security lowers these risks, protecting users and their sensitive data from costly setbacks.

What are the types of browser threats?

Even with modern security features, browsers are still a common entry point for cyberattacks. Attackers often mask their malicious intent behind a link, a familiar site, or an extension, and they frequently target browsers because they handle a significant amount of sensitive data.

Here are some of the most common browser-based threats:

• Phishing attacks
• Malware
• Session jacking
• Cross-site scripting (XSS)
• Malicious extensions and compromised plugins
• Drive-by downloads

Phishing attacks

Phishing is a type of attack where attackers trick you into revealing sensitive information by pretending to be a legitimate website or service.

In many cases, the browser itself is part of the deception. Attackers may use convincing look-alike URLs, spoofed website layouts, or pop-ups that mimic real login prompts.

For a deeper look at how phishing works and the tactics attackers use, you can learn more in our guide to phishing.

Malware

Malware is harmful software usually designed to give attackers unauthorized access to your device. A compromised browser can make it much easier for malware to reach you, especially if your security settings are outdated or you’re using unsafe extensions.

In many cases, malware infects your device through infected ads, compromised websites, or downloads that look legitimate but carry hidden code.

If you want to learn more about spotting and preventing malware, you can check our guide on how to detect malware.

Session hijacking

Session hijacking is an attack where someone takes over your active login session. This can happen in several ways, such as:

• Intercepting your session ID on unsecured (non-HTTPS) websites
• Injecting malicious scripts into compromised pages to capture session cookies
• Predicting weak session IDs that follow a recognizable pattern

Once they have that session ID, they can impersonate you and access your account as if they were already logged in.

To reduce the risk of session hijacking, a few simple habits can make a big difference. Be sure to:

• Use websites with HTTPS (a more secure web protocol) so your session IDs stay encrypted
• Avoid logging in on public or unsecured Wi-Fi unless you’re using a VPN
• Keep your browser and extensions updated to patch known vulnerabilities

These steps make it much harder for attackers to intercept your session and access your accounts without permission.

Cross-site scripting

Cross-site scripting (XSS) is an attack in which hackers inject malicious code into a trusted website, causing your browser to perform actions without your knowledge. Attackers target your browser, making you think you’re interacting with a normal page while harmful scripts run in the background.

A compromised or outdated browser makes XSS attacks more effective. With outdated security features, the browser may fail to block scripts that try to steal cookies, capture form data, or redirect you to malicious pages. In many cases, XSS can trick your browser into handing over session information, displaying fake content, or sending sensitive data to an attacker.

For small business owners, this can expose customer information or compromise the tools you rely on daily. Since XSS exploits trust between your browser and a website, even familiar pages can become dangerous when they’re injected with harmful scripts.

Malicious extensions and compromised plugins

Browser extensions and plugins are add-ons that enhance your browser’s functionality, such as ad blockers, password managers, or media players.

When an extension or plugin is malicious, or when a legitimate one becomes compromised, attackers can:

• Track your activity
• Steal data
• Inject unwanted ads
• Access parts of your browser

And since many extensions request broad permissions, attackers can hide malicious behavior behind something that appears helpful.

Some extensions quietly capture passwords, read emails, or monitor business dashboards without giving any obvious signs.

Drive-by download

A drive-by download is an attack where malicious software is installed on your device simply by visiting a compromised webpage. The installation can happen even without you clicking anything or pressing the download button.

A compromised browser makes drive-by downloads far more likely to occur. When security settings aren’t up to date or are disabled, attackers can exploit known weaknesses to automatically deliver malware. Even legitimate websites can become dangerous if they’ve been infiltrated by attackers.

You can reduce the risk of drive-by downloads with a few simple habits.

• Keep your browser updated so known vulnerabilities can’t be exploited.
• Avoid visiting unfamiliar or suspicious websites, especially those with aggressive redirect ads.
• Disable outdated plugins or remove them entirely if you no longer need them.
• Use a trusted ad blocker to reduce exposure to malicious ads that may trigger hidden downloads.

How to check your browser security

You don’t need advanced tools to see whether your browser is secure. A few quick checks can reveal if your settings, extensions, and version are putting you at risk.

Here’s a simple checklist you can use on most modern browsers:

1. Regularly update browsers
2. Review security and privacy settings
3. Inspect extensions and plugins
4. Test browser security
5. Review website permissions
6. Confirm HTTPS

Step 1: Regularly update browsers

Go to your browser’s About section (three-dot button > Help > About) to see if you’re running the latest version. The page will automatically inform you whether you’re up to date or if a new version is available.

Updates patch known vulnerabilities, so staying current is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself.

Step 2: Review security and privacy settings

Check your browser’s settings to confirm features like Safe Browsing, site isolation, pop-up protection, and tracking prevention are enabled. Most browsers have a “Security” or “Privacy” tab that makes these easy to find.

Step 3: Inspect extensions and plugins

Review your installed extensions and remove any that you don’t recognize or no longer use. Unsafe or outdated extensions are a common entry point for browser-based attacks; keep only those you trust.

Step 4: Test browser security

If you want to test how well your browser protects your data, you can use online tools such as:

• Cover Your Tracks
• BrowserLeaks
• BrowserAudit

These tools show how much information your browser shares and whether security features are working as expected.

Step 5: Review website permissions

Open your browser’s site permissions page (Settings > Privacy > Site settings) and check which websites have access to your camera, microphone, location, or clipboard. Revoke anything that seems unnecessary.

Step 6: Confirm HTTPS

Look for the lock icon in the address bar when visiting websites, especially those that require you to enter sensitive data. This confirms the connection is encrypted.

How to improve browser security

Most improvements are simple habits or quick adjustments that make it harder for attackers to target your sensitive data. The following tips help keep your activity safe across all major browsers:

• Use browsers with advanced security features
• Turn on safe browsing or enhanced security settings
• Disable pop-ups
• Install an adblocker
• Use a VPN
• Disable autofill
• Disable third-party cookies
• Regularly clear browsing data
• Manage browser extensions
• Install a firewall and antivirus software
• Use strong passwords and MFA (multi-factor authentication)
• Familiarize yourself with phishing red flags
• Use private browsing
• Install SSL certificates

Use browsers with advanced security features

Not all browsers offer the same level of protection, so choosing one with strong, built-in security features is an important first step.

A secure browser should include features like:

• HTTPS enforcement to ensure your connection is encrypted
• Anti-phishing protection that warns you about unsafe pages
• Sandboxing, which keeps each tab isolated so that malicious code can’t spread
• Site isolation, which separates sensitive content from untrusted pages
• Automatic security updates that patch vulnerabilities quickly
• Privacy controls like anti-tracking technology

Here are some modern web browsers known for strong security features:

Browser	Notable security traits
Google Chrome	Frequent security updates, sandboxing, site isolation, Safe Browsing alerts
Mozilla Firefox	Strong privacy controls, enhanced tracking protection, open-source transparency
Microsoft Edge	SmartScreen protection, hardware isolation features on supported devices
Safari	Intelligent Tracking Prevention, strong integration with macOS security

All major browsers provide a solid security foundation. The key is choosing one that fits your workflow and keeping it up to date.

Turn on safe browsing or enhanced security settings

Most modern browsers include built-in safety tools that warn you about dangerous websites, suspicious downloads, or known phishing attempts. Enabling these protections provides your browser with an additional layer of defense.

Here’s what these settings typically do:

• Alert you before visiting malicious or phishing websites
• Block unsafe downloads or files that look suspicious
• Warn you if a password you’re using has appeared in a data breach
• Help identify unfamiliar or risky extensions

You can usually find these options in your browser’s Security or Privacy settings. For quick reference:

• Chrome: Menu (⋮) → Settings → Privacy & security → Security → Safe Browsing (Standard or Enhanced)
• Edge: Menu (⋯) → Settings → Privacy, search & services → Security → Enhance your security on the web (Balanced or Strict)
• Safari: Safari menu → Settings → Security → Enable “Warn when visiting a fraudulent website”
• Firefox: Menu (≡) → Settings → Privacy & Security → Security → Enable “Block dangerous and deceptive content”

Disable pop-ups

Apart from being annoying, pop-ups can deliver malware or phishing prompts in the guise of a notification. Disabling them reduces the chances of accidentally clicking something harmful.

To disable pop-ups on a Chrome browser:

• Open Chrome on your computer
• Click the Menu (⋮) in the top-right corner and select Settings
• Go to Privacy & security → Site settings → Pop-ups and redirects
• Choose your default setting

With pop-ups turned off, you can browse with fewer distractions and a bit more peace of mind.

Install an ad blocker

Besides disabling pop-ups, you can also install an ad blocker to help filter intrusive ads that sometimes hide malicious scripts. It adds an extra layer of protection when browsing unfamiliar websites or managing business tools where there is a risk of exposing sensitive data.

Here are some widely used ad blockers:

• uBlock Origin
• Adblock Plus
• Ghostery
• Privacy Badger

Most ad blockers work as browser extensions, allowing you to adjust their settings to suit your desired level of filtering strictness.

Use a VPN

A virtual private network (VPN) creates a secure, encrypted connection between your device and the internet. It routes your internet connection through a secure server before it reaches any website.

Instead of websites seeing your actual network address, they see the VPN server’s address instead. All the data you send travels through an encrypted tunnel, which keeps outsiders from viewing or tampering with it.

Using a VPN is helpful when you’re logging into business tools, handling customer information, or accessing accounts on the go. It reduces the risk of someone spying on the data your browser sends or receives.

Here are a few well-known VPN options you can explore:

• NordVPN
• ExpressVPN
• Proton VPN
• Surfshark

A VPN isn’t a replacement for browser security features, but it adds an important layer of protection for anyone who needs to keep their online activity private and secure.

Disable autofill

Autofill makes browsing faster by saving information like names, addresses, and credit card details. However, it can also create security risks. If your browser or device is compromised, attackers may be able to access this stored information.

To reduce these risks, follow these best practices:

• Turn off autofill for sensitive fields such as payment cards, passwords, and personal information
• Use a dedicated password manager instead of storing passwords in the browser
• Review and delete any stored autofill entries in your browser settings
• Avoid letting your browser save information on shared or public devices

On a Chrome browser, you can adjust these settings by going to:

• Menu (⋮) in the top-right corner and select Settings
• In the left sidebar, click Autofill and passwords
• Open each section — Passwords, Payment methods, and Addresses and more
• Turn off the Save and fill options in each category

Disabling autofill reduces the amount of sensitive data your browser stores, thereby limiting what attackers can steal in the event of a security breach.

Disable third-party cookies

Third-party cookies track your activity across multiple websites, typically for advertising or analytics purposes. While this can enhance personalization on your browsing experience, it also means companies, and potentially attackers, can view more of your browsing behavior than you might expect.

In some cases, malicious third-party cookies can be used to track your online activities or gather data without your consent.

Disabling third-party cookies limits the amount of your activity that is shared on the internet.

How to disable third-party cookies in Chrome:

1. Open Chrome on your computer
2. Click the Menu (⋮) and choose Settings
3. Go to Privacy & security → Cookies and other site data
4. Select Block third-party cookies

Turning off third-party cookies may break some websites, but it does create a safer, more private browsing experience.

Regularly clear browsing data

Over time, your browser stores cookies, cached files, and browsing history. While these help websites load faster, they can also reveal details about your browser activity and other sensitive data stored on your browser.

Clearing this data regularly helps your browser run more efficiently by removing outdated files that can slow it down. It also strengthens your privacy by wiping information that websites collect.

Most modern web browsers follow the same procedure when clearing history:

• Click the Menu (⋮) in the top-right corner and select Settings
• Go to Privacy & security → Delete browsing data
• Choose the type of data you want to delete (browsing history, cookies, cached files)
• Select the time range you prefer (from the Last hour or to All time)
• Click Delete from this device to finish

Clearing your browsing data regularly helps keep your browser clean, fast, and safer to use.

Manage your browser extensions

Be cautious when downloading new extensions. Stick to trusted sources, such as official browser stores, and take a moment to read reviews before installing any software. It also helps to check whether the extension is updated regularly.

If you’re managing a business, tools like Chrome’s Cloud Managed Browser can help monitor and control which extensions are allowed across company devices. This gives you better oversight and reduces the risk of someone installing something unsafe.

How to review your extensions in Chrome:

1. Open Chrome and click the Menu (⋮)
2. Go to Extensions → My extensions
3. Disable or remove anything unfamiliar, unused, or untrusted

Regularly managing your extensions reduces unnecessary risks and ensures your browser runs safely.

Install a firewall and antivirus software

Firewalls and antivirus software block threats before they ever reach your browser.

A firewall monitors both incoming and outgoing traffic, helping to prevent unauthorized access to your device. It acts as a barrier between your system and anything trying to connect to it, including suspicious websites and unknown applications.

Antivirus software adds an extra layer of protection by scanning for malware, viruses, and harmful programs that may attempt to install themselves while you browse. Modern antivirus tools can also flag risky websites and warn you before you click something unsafe.

To make your firewall and antivirus tools more effective, following these few best practices can help:

Firewall best practices:

• Ensure your firewall is enabled in your device’s system settings.
• Block incoming connections you don’t recognize, especially if you’re on public or shared Wi-Fi.
• Avoid manually allowing apps through the firewall unless you’re certain they’re legitimate.
• Review your firewall rules periodically to remove unnecessary exceptions.

Antivirus best practices:

• Keep your antivirus software up to date so it can detect the latest threats.
• Enable real-time protection to automatically scan links and files as you interact with them.
• Schedule regular full-system scans, especially if you frequently download files.

Together, these tools strengthen your overall security. Even if a malicious file slips past your browser, the firewall and antivirus software help stop it from causing damage.

Use strong passwords and MFA

Weak or reused passwords are one of the most common ways attackers gain access to accounts. A strong password makes it much harder for anyone to crack your login details.

A strong password should be unique for every account and include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using personal information, such as birthdays, pet names, or common words, as these are easy for attackers to guess.

Adding multi-factor authentication provides an extra layer of protection for your accounts. MFA requires a second verification step, making unauthorized access difficult.

Best practices for stronger account security:

• Use a unique password for every account, especially for email, banking, and business tools.
• Enable MFA wherever possible, including for email, social media, and administrative dashboards.
• Use a reputable password manager to generate and store secure passwords.
• Update old or weak passwords, especially ones you’ve reused across multiple sites.

Strong passwords and MFA work together to keep your browser sessions safer and protect the accounts you depend on for daily tasks.

Familiarize yourself with phishing red flags

Even with strong browser security, phishing attacks can still slip through if you’re not paying attention. Knowing what these scams look like helps you avoid clicking on something harmful, whether it’s through email, social media, or a website.

Phishing attempts often aim to create a sense of urgency. They also mimic messaging from trusted brands to prompt you to reveal sensitive information. A few common signs include:

• Unusual or urgent requests, like asking you to verify your account immediately
• Unexpected attachments or links, especially from unfamiliar senders
• Spelling or grammar mistakes that feel out of place
• Email addresses or URLs that don’t match the real company
• Requests for personal information, login details, or payment data
• Generic greetings, such as “Dear user,” instead of using your name

Spotting these red flags early helps you avoid entering your information on fake sites or clicking links designed to steal your data.

Use private browsing

Private browsing modes reduce the amount of data your browser stores during a session. When enabled, your browser won’t save your history, search activity, or cookies once you close the window.

This doesn’t make you invisible online, but it does help keep your activity more private. It also lowers the chance of sensitive information being saved or auto-filled on websites you visit.

A private browsing window can be created by pressing:

• Chrome / Edge: Ctrl + Shift + N
• Firefox: Ctrl + Shift + P
• Safari (Mac): Command + Shift + N

Private browsing is especially useful when accessing business dashboards, checking email on a public computer, or logging in to financial accounts on a device you don’t own.

Install an SSL certificate on your website

If you manage a website, installing an SSL certificate is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your visitors. SSL encrypts the data exchanged between your users’ browsers and your website, making it much harder for attackers to intercept sensitive information.

Why SSL matters for browser security:

• It protects sensitive data transmitted through your site.
• It prevents attackers from intercepting information.
• It helps protect users’ credentials, personal details, and payment information.
• It signals to browsers that your site is safe, which reduces browser safety warnings and adds credibility to your site.

For a more in-depth explanation of how SSL works, refer to our comprehensive guide on SSL certificates, which explains what they are and why you need one.

Frequently asked questions

Secure your browsing, secure your business 

A secure browser does more than protect your device. With threats hiding behind ordinary links, pop-ups, and web pages, taking the time to strengthen your browser settings goes a long way in keeping you and your customers safe.

Simple habits like updating your browser, reviewing extensions, enabling security features, and using VPNs or SSL certificates create a much safer online environment. And if you run a website, adding SSL protection ensures your visitors browse with confidence.

Pair your efforts with our SSL Certificate and SiteLock Website Security to give you an added layer of defense against evolving threats.

The more secure your browsing experience is, the easier it is to protect your data, your customers, and the work you do every day.