Best practices for safe browsing with Brave.
Best Practices for Safe Browsing with Brave
Brave browser has gained immense popularity for its built-in privacy and security features. However, to get the most out of it, users should still follow several best practices to ensure a safer browsing experience. This guide outlines essential tips for safe browsing with Brave.
Regularly Update Brave Browser
To maintain optimal security, its crucial to keep your Brave browser updated. Updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities and new features that enhance privacy.
- Automatic Updates: Brave typically updates automatically, but its good practice to check for updates manually.
- Manual Update: Go to ‘Settings’, then ‘Help’, and click on ‘About Brave’ to see if an update is available.
Enable Shields
Shields are Braves built-in trackers and ad-blocking feature that enhances your privacy and speeds up your browsing experience.
- Default Setting: Shields are enabled by default, but you can customize them by clicking on the Brave icon in the address bar.
- Custom Settings: You can toggle features like ad blocking and tracker blocking, and choose whether or not to allow cookies, scripts, and fingerprinting attempts.
Use HTTPS Everywhere
Brave includes a feature called HTTPS Everywhere, which automatically upgrades your connections to HTTPS, ensuring your data is encrypted.
- Automatic Activation: This feature is enabled by default, so you don’t need to take any extra steps.
- Checking Status: Click on the Brave icon in the address bar to see the status of HTTPS Everywhere for any given site.
Private Browsing Mode
For additional privacy, use Brave’s Private Browsing mode, which doesn’t save your browsing history, cookies, or site data after you close the window.
- Open Private Window: Click on the menu in the upper-right corner and select ‘New Private Window’.
- Tor Integration: You can also opt for a Private Window with Tor for an added layer of anonymity. This route anonymizes your traffic by routing it through the Tor network.
Manage Extensions Wisely
While extensions can enhance functionality, they can also pose security risks. Only install extensions from reputable sources and regularly review their permissions.
- Review Extensions: Navigate to ‘Settings’ and then ‘Extensions’ to manage your installed extensions.
- Permission Management: Disable or remove any extensions that you don’t use regularly or that request excessive permissions.
Regular Security Audits
Performing regular security audits can help identify vulnerabilities and secure your browser.
- Security Checkup: Use Brave’s built-in security checkup tools to scan for potential risks.
- Third-Party Audits: Consider using third-party tools for a more comprehensive security audit.
Data Management
Managing your stored data can also enhance your security and privacy.
- Clear Browsing Data: Regularly clear your cookies, cached data, and browsing history by navigating to ‘Settings’, then ‘Privacy and Security’, and clicking on ‘Clear Browsing Data’.
- Cookie Management: Set Brave to automatically clear cookies after each session for better privacy.
Two-Factor Authentication
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for your Brave Rewards and other online accounts for an added layer of security.
- Account Settings: Go to your account settings and follow the instructions to set up 2FA.
- Authenticator Apps: Use an authenticator app like Google Authenticator or Authy for generating secure 2FA codes.
By following these best practices, you can significantly enhance your online security and privacy while using the Brave browser. These guidelines not only help you make the most of Brave’s built-in features but also ensure you have a safe and worry-free browsing experience.
by a Fan.