In this article, we talk more about cyber and digital privacy in relation to internet browsers. While much of the modern world is in an apparently interdependent relationship with Internet browsers; It is imperative that we take the time to discuss the various browsers and their privacy implications.
Safe Internet browsers and web browsing are absolutely essential to staying safe online and keeping your data safe from third parties. Most browsers collect private information that may be collected by third parties. This information includes, but is not limited to:
· Browsing history: all websites visited
· Login information: usernames and passwords
Cookies and trackers: these are placed on your computer by the websites you visit
· Autofill information: name, address, zip code, phone number, credit card numbers and other relevant data.
Many people think that using browsers’ private browsing mode is their private way of surfing the web. Below are some Pros and Cons of using private mode.
Pros of browsing in private mode:
· The websites you visit, searches and form data are not saved locally.
· Cookies are deleted when the session ends.
· Your private browsing sessions are isolated from normal browsing sessions.
Cons of browsing in private mode:
· Websites can see your IP Address.
· Websites keep tracking you by browser fingerprint, canvas fingerprint and other related methods.
· Downloaded files and bookmarks are saved locally
Keyloggers, malware and Trojans continue to work and can track you
· Your ISP can see everything you do
· Plugins are not automatically installed in private browsing mode.
Common Internet browsers such as Safari, Edge, Chrome and others do not inherently protect your privacy unless you harden the browsers through configurations and plugins/plugins.
That said, here is a list of some browsers that do a better job at protecting your digital privacy.
Firefox
Firefox was developed by the Mozilla Foundation. It is a safe and fast browser. Once you install it and configure Firefox not to track it, it becomes a very safe browser.
Highlights in Firefox:
-Open source code also audited by a third party
-Active development with frequent updates
· Excellent privacy features and customization options
-Many browser extensions supported
-Telemetry and tracking can be disabled manually
-Other changes necessary for greater privacy and security
· To change the configurations, please visit the following page from privacytools.io. There are other recommended hardening methods.
Tor Browser
Firefox-based but powered Tor browser. It is mainly used to connect to the Tor network.
Important points about Tor Browser:
-Uses HTTPS Anywhere and comes with NoScript (all scripts disabled by default) plugins installed
-Blocks other browser plug-ins such as Flash, RealPlayer, and QuickTime
· Uses Disconnect.me as default search engine
-Always uses Private Browsing mode (no tracking protection, no browsing history, saved passwords, search history, cookies or cached web content)
· The safest way to use Tor is to have your own login node.
Waterfox
Waterfox is a fork of Firefox with advanced privacy options.
Highlights of the Waterfox browser:
-Allows you to use older Firefox add-ons/plugins
· Removed tracking, telemetry, data collection, startup profiling and sponsored tiles
-Cons of Waterfox browser:
-Less active development
· Slower security update releases than standard Firefox.
Brave
Brave is based on the open source Chromium browser with extra blocking and privacy tools.
Key points about the Brave browser:
· By default it blocks scripts, trackers and ads.
-Brave’s anti-tracking tools are among the best
-Chromium extensions can be used as it is built on Chromium
-Protects user from browser fingerprint
· Automatically upgrades to HTTPS Everywhere.
Indium
It is based on the open source Chromium browser with many privacy improvements.
Highlights of the Iridium browser:
-Blocks scripts, trackers, DNS guessing, third-party plugins and ads by default
-Autofill and password saving are disabled by default
-Default search engine is Qwant
https://lite.qwant.com/
The great news is that you, as a privacy-conscious user, have options to improve your browsing privacy. A well-configured browser can keep you and your data private when you’re online. Also, you can always use a VPN and ad blocker if you don’t want your ISP and other eyes to track your every digital move.