You may have heard the term “secure browser” recently, but even if you haven’t, you soon will. So what is a secure browser anyway? It is simply a web browser or environment that has been specifically modified, or customized, to provide you tighter security, especially when you are performing secure transactions online (banking, shopping, etc.). Think of it as a locked down or restricted browser that maximizes your security on the web.
As the web, in general, becomes more unsafe due to constant threats of identity theft, and takeover of your financial, email, or other personal accounts by hackers, you need tools that will ensure you are protected online. One of these tools, of course, is the LinkScanner™ technology provided by AVG, which identifies and blocks access to dangerous websites you might encounter while browsing.
Another important tool is a secure browser, or secure browsing environment. The secure browser ensures that all non-essential functionality, including plug-ins and add-ons, are disabled. Additionally, it sets all internal options to the maximum security setting, thus ensuring that you are protected by very strong online security.
You might ask, “How is a secure browser different from the browser I currently use to surf the web?” The answer to that question depends on which browser you currently use, which plug-ins you have installed, and how up to date your environment is. Most of us use one or more of the most popular internet browsers available, including Microsoft’s Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Opera, or Safari. Some browsers are considered safer than others because of factors such as architecture, quality of the browser, or even how popular the browser is. Let’s look at these characteristics individually.
Recent news reports state that several large, international companies were hacked - allegedly by the Chinese government. The hack was successful because of a flaw in MS Internet Explorer (no patch is available to fix this as of this writing). In this case it appears the hackers were targeting specific companies, looking for information or access to specific accounts. Even though this example is related to larger companies though, it was found that most of them use the same version of IE that most of us use. The popularity of IE leads hackers to find ways to exploit problems with the browser by creating code that can put you at risk if you visit a particular website or download or open an attachment in email.
Most of today’s browsers also allow for plug-ins, add-ons or extensions. All of these are small programs that typically add new functionality to your browser. They could be shown as a small button on your toolbar that allows you to check the weather, or stock quotes, etc. These extensions are usually created by third parties and run the risk of being insecure. Installing one of these plug-ins may leave you vulnerable.
A big problem that continues to give hackers easy access to user systems is our tendency to ignore reminders to update. Updating your operating system, browser, and all the many plug-ins you may have installed is a great way to ensure you stay safe online. Many vendors are turning to automatic updating of their products to keep you safe, but not all do, so please check and update often.
All of these issues put you at risk when you surf the web, and especially if you make use of online banking, or buy anything from an online merchant. This is where secure browsers can play a big role. By using a secure, locked down browser for these types of activities, you are less likely to be the victim of identity theft or illegal access to your financial and sensitive web accounts.
Ultimately, the best solution for a safe and secure online experience is a layered approach. If you apply many different tools such as up-to-date Anti-virus or anti-malware software, a secure firewall, web protection software such as LinkScanner™, and a secure browser all working together, you will be much less likely to become a victim!
Make sure you are protected, and if you feel you need additional security look into customizing your internet settings to create that secure browser.
Phil Zamfino
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