Browser Privacy Settings Worth Changing Today
Your browser is the window to most of what you do online. A few settings make it safer and less nosy.
Keep it updated
Browsers update themselves, but they must be restarted to finish. If you rarely close yours, restart it now. Updates fix the security holes attackers like best.
Trim your extensions
Every extension can see some of what you do. Remove ones you do not use, install only from the official store, and be careful of ones that ask to read all websites.
Block third-party cookies
Third-party cookies let advertisers follow you from site to site. Most browsers allow you to block them in the privacy settings with little downside.
Use safe browsing protection
Turn on the browser's built-in warnings about dangerous sites and downloads. In many browsers there is an enhanced mode with real-time checks.
Use HTTPS
Look for the padlock. Most browsers can be set to use secure connections by default and warn you before loading an insecure page.
Be careful with saved information
Saving passwords and cards in the browser is reasonable if your computer has a strong sign-in and your account has two-step verification. Otherwise use a dedicated password manager.
Review site permissions
Check which sites may use your camera, microphone, location or notifications. Remove any you do not recognise. Constant notification prompts are best blocked.
Private windows
Private browsing hides your history from other people using the same computer. It does not hide you from websites, your employer, your school or your internet provider.
Clear things on a schedule
Clear cookies and cache now and then, or set the browser to clear them on exit if you prefer a fresh start every session.
A search habit
Pick a search engine whose privacy practices you are comfortable with, and click carefully on adverts at the top of results, because lookalike pages are common.
This guide is general information, not professional advice. Menus, features and prices change between versions and regions. See our disclaimer.