Introduction
Brave is a privacy-focused browser that gives you granular control over website permissions. By managing permissions, you can decide which sites can access sensitive features such as your camera, microphone, location, notifications and more. This article explains how to configure both global and per-site permissions in Brave, ensuring you maintain privacy without sacrificing functionality.
Global Permissions Settings
Accessing the Settings
- Open Brave and click the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the top-right corner.
- Select Settings from the dropdown.
- In the left sidebar, click Privacy and security, then choose Site and Shields Settings.
Adjusting Default Behaviors
Here you can set the default behavior for all websites. Adjusting these defaults ensures tighter control right from the start.
| Permission Type | Default Options | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Sites can ask / Blocked | Control whether sites can request your physical location. |
| Camera | Sites can ask / Blocked | Prevent sites from accessing your webcam without permission. |
| Microphone | Sites can ask / Blocked | Stop unauthorized audio recording. |
| Notifications | Sites can ask / Blocked | Manage pop-up notification requests. |
| Cookies and site data | Allow all / Block third-party / Block all | Customize cookie behavior for user tracking and storage. |
| JavaScript | Allowed / Blocked | Enable or disable scripts that run on web pages. |
Managing Permissions for Individual Websites
Via the Address Bar Icon
- Navigate to the website in question.
- Click the lock or information icon on the left side of the address bar.
- Select Site settings.
- Adjust each permission by choosing Allow, Block or Ask (default).
Through the Site and Shields Settings Menu
- Go to brave://settings/content.
- Scroll down to All sites and click it.
- Find the website in the list or use the Search sites box.
- Click the site name to open its permission panel.
- Toggle each permission on or off, or reset to default.
Adding and Removing Exceptions
- Add an exception: In the global settings panel, click Add site exception, enter the URL and configure.
- Remove an exception: Click the trash icon next to the site entry.
- Reset permissions: In an individual site panel, click Reset permissions to restore defaults.
Common Permissions Explained
Location
Allows websites to geo-locate you. Use Ask to grant access only when needed.
Camera and Microphone
Sites require explicit permission to use your device’s camera and microphone. Blocking by default reduces the risk of unwanted audio/video surveillance.
Notifications
Prevents sites from sending push notifications unless you explicitly allow them.
Cookies and Local Storage
Third-party cookies track you across multiple sites. Blocking them improves privacy, though some site features may break.
Pop-ups and Redirects
Controls windows that open without user action. Blocking is recommended for security and to avoid unwanted ads.
JavaScript
Essential for interactive web pages. Blocking it can disable site functionality, but improves security on untrusted domains.
Sound
Mutes or allows audio playback. Useful to silence auto-playing videos on certain sites.
Tips and Best Practices
- Use “Ask” mode for sensitive permissions so you can grant them on a case-by-case basis.
- Regularly review All sites in your settings to spot outdated or unused permissions.
- Enable Brave’s Shields on unfamiliar sites for enhanced ad and tracker blocking.
- Consider block third-party cookies and block fingerprinting for maximum privacy.
- Reset permissions if a site misbehaves or requests excessive access.
By using Brave’s powerful permission controls, you can fine-tune your browsing experience, enhance privacy and reduce unwanted data collection. Stay in control of which websites can access your sensitive device features and enjoy a safer, faster web.
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