A large number of people have Google Chrome as their default browser, preferring it due to its speed and simplicity. It accounts for more than half of all Internet traffic. Whether you’re on a Windows desktop/laptop, MacBook, or Android phone, there’s a pretty good chance that you’re using Google Chrome right now.
You open up your browser to surf the Web. Did you know that someone is looking back at you? Google Chrome isn’t actually safe. News, shopping, and even government news tag your browser and let’s not even talk about the data companies, which are interested in your browsing history and personal data.
The mainstream tech press hasn’t ignored the issue, exposing the privacy concerns. Using the world’s most popular browser isn’t such a good idea. If you’re not eager to ditch it for a privacy-focused alternative like Firefox, find a way to safely and securely browse in Google Chrome, like using a VPN. In this digital age, you can never be too careful. Protect yourself by securing your devices and connections.
Will Google Chrome’s next safety and security updates patch flaws?
Google intends to introduce additional safety and security features for those who use the Chrome browser on Android. The outcome is that they will have access to the same security checkup tools as those using the desktop version of Google Chrome. Speaking of which, the upcoming version of Chrome for desktop will bring about new features meant to block annoying ads and presents enhancements in terms of security, safety, and, last but not least, privacy.
Chrome 83 should have been available sooner, but the launch was postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Google made tremendous efforts to eliminate the vulnerabilities of the system. The question now is: Do the safety and security updates really patch the existing flaws? Maybe yes or maybe not. We’ll know for sure when Chrome 83 sees the light of day. Theoretically, the revisions should eliminate software vulnerabilities.
How to get solid Google Chrome browser security
If you’re like everyone else, you keep personal information and important documents on your devices, which are of great value for malicious actors (cybercriminals). Although Google Chrome has seen a decrease in the number of hacked credentials, that doesn’t mean that it’s safe.
In what follows, we’ll present the best practices for protecting your privacy online and browsing the web securely. You know what they say: “It’s better to be safe than sorry”.
Change settings for maximum privacy
Google makes available a great many web services so as to save time. The problem is that each service accesses certain types of data. Google may want to know what URLs you type in the address bar or read your browsing history. If you’re using your own devices, it’s important to be careful. More precisely, change the settings if you want to enjoy maximum privacy.
Click on the button that is found in the top-right corner of the Chrome browser. Choose Settings, click Show Advanced Settings, and scroll down to the privacy area. You can perform several actions, such as ad clearing your browsing data or send a Do Not Track request. You’re able to control some of the information you share online, so take advantage of that.
Put your mobile browser on pause
As mentioned earlier, there are some issues with Google Chrome for Android. An update is set to be released soon, but until that happens you need to be careful. The world is more oriented to mobile and, unfortunately, browsers haven’t become more secure. Don’t spend so much time on your mobile devices. Desktop browsing is preferable due to stability, greater bandwidth, and full access to website content.
Use a VPN extension in Google Chrome
If you want to surf the Internet knowing that your personal information is protected, use a VPN extension in Google Chrome. VPN, which stands for virtual private network, is a service that encrypts your browser traffic so that nobody can take hold of your personal data. Not only does the VPN secure the Internet connection, but also it masks your IP location. Installing a VPN plugin for Chrome ensures that your data and activity are safe while using the browser.
No matter what server you choose, you can expect solid security and a fantastic selection of anonymity features. The VPN extension provides everything you could possibly need. it ensures a faster connection, secures your browser on public Wi-Fis, and prevents trackers from ads, analytics, or social media.
The difference between a free and a paid VPN doesn’t lie in the fact that one costs money and the other doesn’t. As a rule, free VPNs cut corners, so it’s recommended to opt for a paid service. It’s much more reliable and trustworthy. After having received the main application, you simply enable the corresponding Chrome extension.
If you’re online, there’s always a security risk
To sum up, you shouldn’t rely on anything as far as surfing the Internet is concerned. Indeed, Google, Mozilla, Microsoft, and the rest are trying hard to enhance the browsing experience, but there are limitations to what they can do. No browser can guarantee maximum safety and security, so it’s well worth taking extra measures.
Web users have a major responsibility for their data security. If there’s one thing that the current pandemic has taught us it’s that individual action is required. Internet users need to demonstrate caution and protect themselves from the growing threats to their online safety and security.
Making the right choices really makes the difference in terms of maintaining privacy and security. Modify Chrome’s privacy settings, use a VPN extension, and avoid browsing on your smartphone or tablet until the new Chrome is launched. Attention needs to be paid to the fact that these are just some of the actions you can take when it comes to browsing in Google Chrome.
These days, we rely a great deal on the Web. Some would argue that we’ve become too dependent. Every time you go online, you leave a trail of data behind. That’s something to think about.
