How to Secure Your Chrome Browser Against Cyber Crime

In today’s digital world, securing your web browser is essential to protect yourself against cybercrime. With the increasing prevalence of online threats, it’s important to take proactive measures to safeguard your browsing activities and personal information. One of the most popular web browsers used by millions of people worldwide is Google Chrome. In this blog, we will discuss 10 essential tips to secure your Chrome browser against cybercrime.

1. Keep Chrome Up-to-Date

One of the most critical steps to enhance the security of your Chrome browser is to ensure that it’s always updated to the latest version. Chrome updates often include security patches that address known vulnerabilities, so keeping your browser up-to-date is essential to protect against potential cyber threats. Follow steps given to update chrome browser.

How to update Chrome browser:

1. Open Chrome browser on your device.
2. Click on option three dots button > click on Settings.
3. Scroll to the bottom in left hand side options > click on About Chrome.
4. Now click on Update button under About Chrome section.

2. Use Strong and Unique Passwords

Your Google account, which includes your Chrome browser, should be protected with a strong, unique password. Avoid using easily guessable passwords and consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords securely. Additionally, avoid using the same password across multiple accounts to prevent a domino effect in case one account is compromised. You can do safety check for if any of your passwords is leaked in breach, follow steps given bellow:

1. Launch Chrome on your device.
2. Click on three dots button > then click on Settings.
3. Click on Privacy and security > under Safety check section > find Chrome can help keep you safe from data breaches, bad extensions, and more.
4. Now click on Check now.

3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication provides an extra layer of security for your Google account and Chrome browser. It typically requires a verification code to be entered in addition to your password when logging in, making it harder for cybercriminals to gain unauthorized access. Enable 2FA for your Google account to add an additional layer of protection.

How to enable Two-Factor Authentication :

1. Launch Chrome on your device > login your Google account.
2. Click on Profile icon > then click on Manage your Google Account.
3. Now select Security tab > Scroll down to How you sign in to Google.
4. Click on 2-Step Verification > then click on Get started.
5. You will be prompted to enter your mobile number > type mobile number and click on Next.
6. Now enter Google verification code recieved (text/over call) > then click TURN ON button.

Note: Google verification code will be sent on your registered mobile number whenever you prompt to login on a new device. Keep your mobile with you at the moment of loging in your Goolge account.

4. Disable Unnecessary Extensions:

Extensions are add-ons that enhance the functionality of Chrome, but they can also introduce vulnerabilities. Review the extensions installed in your Chrome browser and disable or remove any that are not necessary. Only install trusted extensions from the Chrome Web Store, and regularly review and update them to ensure they are secure.

How to disable extensions in Google chrome:

1. Open Google chrome on your device.
2. Click on three dots button > then click on Settings.
3. Scroll to the bottom of left side menu > click on Extensions.
4. You will see list of all extensions > remove or disable unnecessory extension according to your choice.

5. Use Chrome’s Built-in Security Features

Chrome has several built-in security features that you can enable to enhance your browser’s security. For example, Safe Browsing warns you about potentially harmful websites, and Enhanced Safe Browsing provides additional protection against phishing attacks. Enable these features in your Chrome settings to add an extra layer of protection.

Enable chrome’s built-in security features:

1. Open Chrome browser on your device.
2. Click on three dots button > then select Settings.
3. Under Settings click on Privacy and security.
4. Now find Safe Browsing (protection from dangerous sites) and other security settings and click on it.
5. Under Safe browsing select :
   • Enhanced protection.

• Under Advanced turn on Always use secure connections.

6. Be Cautious with Downloads and Links

Be cautious when downloading files or clicking on links, especially from unknown sources. Avoid downloading files from untrusted websites, and be wary of links in emails or messages, as they may contain malware or lead to phishing attempts. Always verify the source before downloading or clicking on links.

7. Customize Privacy and Security Settings

Chrome offers various privacy and security settings that you can customize according to your preferences. For example, you can control how Chrome handles website permissions, configure security options, and manage your browsing data. Review and customize these settings in your Chrome settings menu to ensure they align with your security preferences.

How to customize Privacy and security settings in Chrome browser:

1. Launch chrome browser on your device.
2. Click on three dots option button > now click on Settings.
3. Under Settings menu > click on Privacy and security > now find Controls what information sites can use and show (location, camera, pop-ups, and more) and click on it.
4. Under Permissions section, you can see:
   • Location : Sites can ask for your location (Allow access to trusted sites only).
   • Camera : Sites can ask to use your camera (Allow access to trusted sites only).
   • Microphone : Sites can ask to use your microphone (Allow access to trusted sites only).
   • Notifications : Sites can ask to send notifications.
   • Background sync : After you leave a site, it can keep syncing to finish tasks, like uploading photos or sending a chat message. Use the feature wisely.
   • Content :
     • Cookies and other site data : Block third-party cookies in Incognito.

8. Regularly Clear Browsing Data

Regularly clear your browsing data, including cookies, cache, and browsing history, to remove any stored information that may pose a security risk. Clearing your browsing data can help protect your privacy and reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your information.

How to clear Browsing data in Chrome browser:

1. Open Chrome browser.
2. Press Ctrl+H to open history settings.
3. Select Clear browsing data and click on Advanced tab.
4. Select Time range :
   • Last hour, Last 24 hours, Last 7 days, Last 4 weeks, All time ( choose as you want).
5. Check available options, what you want to clear:
   • Browsing history, Cookies and other site data, Cached images and files, Passwords and other sing in data, Auto fill form data, Site settings, Hosted app data.
     • Must do research above mentioned options before you clear browsing data.
6. Now click on Clear data button.

9. Be Wary of Phishing Attempts

Phishing is a common tactic used by cybercriminals to trick users into revealing their personal information. Be vigilant against phishing attempts, and avoid clicking on suspicious links or providing personal information on unfamiliar websites or emails. Always verify the authenticity of requests before sharing any sensitive information.

10. Educate Yourself about Cybersecurity

Stay informed about the latest cybersecurity threats and best practices. Educate yourself and your family members about online security, safe browsing habits, and how to identify and report potential cyber threats. Staying informed and educated is crucial in maintaining a secure browsing environment.

Conclusion:

securing your Chrome browser against cybercrime requires a proactive approach. By following these best practices, you can enhance the security of your Chrome browser and reduce the risk of falling victim to cybercrime. Remember to stay vigilant, keep your software up-to-date, and use strong passwords and multi-factor authentication to protect your online accounts and data.