Today, internet browsers have become a repository of credentials, cookies, internet searches and other attractive information that cybercriminals can target. Cybercriminals can attack computers to remotely control computers and gain access to the network they are connected to. Threats are not limited to malicious third parties, either. Third-party advertisers and other apps that access and track personal information through browsers can become a concern for many users.
Exploit vulnerabilities in browsers or any plug-ins/extensions you may have installed: This tactic can be used to steal sensitive data or download other malware. Attacks usually start with a phishing email/message or a visit to a website that has been compromised or controlled by the attacker (via download).
Malicious add-ons: There are thousands of add-ons on the market that users can download to improve their browser experience. However, many have privileged browser access. This means. Fake plugins that look legitimate; It can be used to steal data, download other malware, and more.
DNS poisoning: DNS is the address book of the internet and it is used by browsers to show the websites we want to visit by converting the domain names we write to the internet into IP addresses. However, attacks on DNS entries stored on your computer or on the DNS servers themselves can allow attackers to redirect browsers to domains for malicious purposes, such as phishing sites.
Session hijacking: Session credentials are processed by websites and application servers when users log in. However, if attackers manage to forcibly attack or capture these credentials (if they are not encrypted), then they can pretend to be users and log into the same websites/applications. From there, they don't have to go too far to steal sensitive data and possibly financial information.
Monitoring the connection between two ports/browser attack: Attackers can also manipulate internet traffic if they manage to position themselves between your browser and the websites you view. For example, it can redirect you to a phishing website, deliver ransomware, or steal login information. This can happen especially when using public Wi-Fi connections.
Network application exploitation: Although attacks such as cross-site script execution target applications on your computer rather than your browser, attacks on your browser are used to deliver or run malicious programs.
There are many methods that users can apply to mitigate security and privacy risks when surfing the Internet.
Keep your browser and add-ons up to date to mitigate the risk of exploits. Uninstall outdated plugins to further reduce the attack area.
Only visit sites that use HTTPS. These sites carry a lock icon in the browser address bar so hackers cannot spy on the traffic between your browser and the web server.
Have “phishing awareness” to reduce the risk of browser threats carried by email and online messages. Do not respond to or click on links in a spam email without checking the sender's information. Do not share any of your personal information.
Think twice before downloading any app or file. Always visit the official websites for this.
Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) to reduce the impact of identity theft.
Get VPN service from a reputable service provider, not the free version. The VPN service creates an encrypted tunnel to keep your internet traffic safe and hidden from third-party trackers.
Buy multi-layered security software from a reputable security provider.
Enable automatic updates on your operating system and software on your computer.
Update your browser settings to avoid tracking and block third-party cookies and pop-ups.
Turn off the auto-save password option in your browser, although it will affect the user experience when logging in.
Use a privacy-focused browser/search engine to reduce confidential data sharing
Use special browser options like Chrome Incognito Mode to avoid cookie tracking.
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