Browsing the internet is full of risks. You can fall prey to a range of cybercrime and attacks that target individuals and businesses. In fact, cybercrime is going to cost the planet $10.5 trillion each year by 2025.
The estimate is not surprising considering the surge in cybercrime since COVID-19. More and more individuals are coming under attack from malware, viruses, and malware.
Another form of crime called ransomware is also increasing. Using this technique, hackers lock files on your device with a password. Then they demand a ransom to send you the key to unlock those files.
You have no way to get back your files unless you pay the attackers.
As a result, it is necessary to take a few steps to ensure secure browsing. You can also become more aware and follow some best practices to stay safe on the net.
Here are a few tips for browsing the internet safely.
How to Browse the Internet Safely
It pays to be aware while you browse the internet. You need to be familiar with the different types of threats that exist online. Additionally, you have to know to identify vulnerabilities and avoid suspicious links or websites.
First of all, install an antivirus on your computer or mobile to prevent basic attacks and threats. Make sure your antivirus has a firewall and can protect you from the most common attacks.
Steps to Stay Safe While Browsing the Internet
You can try the following approaches to enjoy a secure browsing experience:
1. Browse Only HTTPS Websites
One of the simplest ways to secure browsing is to access only HTTPS websites. HTTPS is a technology that encrypts all data exchanged between your computer and web services.
Therefore, no one can snoop on your information or know what you are doing on a website.
Most websites today support HTTPS connections for more security. In a browser, you will see a green padlock light up beside the address bar. It means the website uses HTTPS to secure the connection between you and it.
HTPPS also protects your device when you are using public WiFi. Hackers won’t be able to access your device and compromise your data. It will still protect you even if you don’t use a VPN extension.
Moreover, you should try to stay away from websites that don’t use HTTPS. You will see the green padlock turn into red, which means the site may be dangerous to visit.
However, your browser may not have HTTPS enabled by default. Therefore, you should check the settings and enable the option to browse the internet safely.
In addition, you may use many plugins that allow your device to connect to HTPPs websites only.
2. Update Your Browser and Apps Regularly
Updating your browser may feel unnecessary. However, it is really important to keep yourself safe on the internet and prevent cyber-attacks.
Therefore, activate automatic updates on all your browsers, apps, and software. The approach can make a big difference as 81% of cyber-attacks exploit vulnerabilities in software within a day of discovery.
Best of all, activating automatic updates resolves 91% of browser vulnerabilities. This data is presented by the National Security Agency.
Many people don’t want to update software as they feel it will disrupt their activities. However, developers release important patches and security updates that can keep you safe online.
So, activate automatic updates for all your software and tools. Additionally, do the same for your regular and VPN secure browser.
3. Don’t Click on Suspicious Links
This is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself online. Viruses, malware, and other dangers may enter your device through links spread across the web.
As a result, you should be wary of clicking any link on any website that you aren’t familiar with. So, access links on websites you trust.
Moreover, don’t click on suspicious links sent by email from unknown senders. They may lead you to download malware or fall victim to a scam.
This is called a phishing attack and becoming more common every day.
4. Stay Safe with a VPN
Anyone could snoop on what you are doing online if they had the skills and technology. They will be able to see the websites you visit, the terms you search, and the pages you click.
As a result, hackers may even spy on you remotely when you enter a password.
Fortunately, there are ways to ensure cyber criminals cannot make sense of your data. They may access it, but they won’t be able to understand what it means.
One of the ways is using a virtual private network or VPN. It creates a tunnel that shields the data you exchange with web services. The technical term for it is encryption, which means a VPN converts your data into an unreadable form. It does this with a key, and the key is only accessible between you and the website.
Therefore, no third party can know what your data means. Moreover, breaking the tunnel to reach your data will also be difficult.
So a safe VPN can go a long way to protect your data. Additionally, you may enjoy VPN safe browsing and even protect your privacy.
A VPN hides your IP address, so no one knows your location. Also, hackers will find it difficult to trace your location, which is otherwise visible to everyone.
So, read a VPN secure review and choose the right one for your needs. Moreover, you can also use a Chrome VPN for the Chrome browser to enjoy all the perks of a VPN.
Additionally, use a VPN when you access public WiFi.
Final Thoughts
Being online is not without risks. You have to secure browsing and make an effort to stay safe on the internet. Some of the ways are using a VPN and creating strong passwords. You should also update your browser and extensions. Additionally, disable suspicious extensions and clear your browser cookies. Moreover, update your apps, browser, and software to strengthen your protection plan.