Problem
The Internet is likely the most dangerous place you’ll ever visit. It’s filled with phishing pages, insecure forms exposing your data, cryptominers, malware downloads, insane popups, and more. A single missed click can result in having your bank account info stolen, your computer files locked up, your social media accounts taken over, and more. It’s such a common attack vector, the US Government has an information page talking about different attack vectors. There are tons of browser extensions that are just straight up malware in disguise! I could sit here and type 1000 more words about how browsers can f**k your day up, but that wouldn’t be helpful.
High-level Solution
Browse smart by using a modern browser that is well supported and is kept up-to-date with security patches. Let it auto update! There are a few 3rd party extensions you can install into your browser to enhance the privacy and security of your browsing but you really need to avoid installing random extensions from unknown developers. Then you can adjust a few privacy and security settings in your browser. These things won’t make you invincible and you’ll still need to use common sense while browsing, but they’ll definitely cover many bases.
Recommendation
Tweaking and tuning browsers is a rabbit hole I’ll cover in more depth in the future, but just using the below tools will be a great upgrade from whatever you are using currently.
Browser
Firefox is open source, performs well, is kept up-to-date by Mozilla, and is an all around great browser choice.
Extensions (all platforms except iOS)
I’d recommend deleting all non-critical (read: must have or you’ll get fired from work) extensions and installing these:
HTTPS Everywhere
This ensures your connection with web sites and applications is as secure as possible and tries to make sure you’re always using HTTPS.
uBlock Origin
This is a mix between a content blocker and an ad blocker. It tries to avoid loading extra junk on websites.
PrivacyBadger
Similar to uBlock Origin and covers your bases.
Bitwarden
The Bitwarden extension is great way to manage all your passwords as you browse. I recommend Bitwarden as a password manager.
Extensions (iOS)
Firefox on iOS can’t install extensions, but you can enable “Enhanced Tracking Protection” in it’s Privacy settings.
