Browser Security Check: 5 Steps

TL;DR

Keep your browser secure by updating it regularly, using strong extensions, checking security settings, being careful about cookies and permissions, and running regular scans.

1. Update Your Browser

Outdated browsers are a major security risk. Updates often include fixes for newly discovered vulnerabilities. Here’s how to check:

• Chrome: Click the three dots (top right) > Help > About Google Chrome. It will automatically check and install updates.
• Firefox: Click the three lines (top right) > Help > About Firefox. It will automatically check for updates.
• Edge: Click the three dots (top right) > Help and feedback > About Microsoft Edge. It will automatically check for updates.
• Safari (Mac): Apple Menu > System Preferences > Software Update.

Restart your browser after updating.

2. Review Your Browser Extensions

Extensions can add useful features, but some are malicious or poorly coded and pose a security threat.

• Chrome: Type chrome://extensions in the address bar and press Enter.
• Firefox: Type about:addons in the address bar and press Enter.
• Edge: Type edge://extensions in the address bar and press Enter.

Remove any extensions you don’t recognise or no longer use.

• Look for extensions with excessive permissions (e.g., access to all your browsing data).
• Check reviews before installing new extensions.

3. Check Your Security Settings

Make sure your browser’s security settings are configured correctly.

• Chrome: Click the three dots > Settings > Privacy and security > Security. Enable ‘Safe Browsing’.
• Firefox: Click the three lines > Settings > Privacy & Security. Set ‘Enhanced Tracking Protection’ to ‘Standard’ or ‘Strict’.
• Edge: Click the three dots > Settings > Privacy, search and services > Microsoft Defender SmartScreen. Ensure it is turned on.

Consider enabling features like ‘Do Not Track’ (though websites aren’t legally obliged to respect this).

4. Manage Cookies and Site Permissions

Cookies track your browsing activity, and site permissions control what websites can access on your computer.

• Chrome: Click the three dots > Settings > Privacy and security > Cookies and other site data.
• Firefox: Click the three lines > Settings > Privacy & Security > Cookies and Site Data.
• Edge: Click the three dots > Settings > Cookies and site permissions.

Clear cookies regularly, especially those from websites you don’t trust. Review and restrict site permissions (camera, microphone, location) to only trusted sites.

5. Run a Browser Security Scan

Use a reputable cyber security scanner to check for malware or unwanted software that might be affecting your browser.

• Malwarebytes: A popular free tool for detecting and removing malware. Download from https://www.malwarebytes.com
• Your Antivirus Software: Most antivirus programs include browser security scans. Run a full system scan.