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In today’s digital world, browsing the Internet is second nature, but lurking behind flashy ads, suspicious pop-ups, and misleading links are websites designed to steal your data, infect your device, or trick you into revealing sensitive information. Whether you're shopping online, checking emails, or scrolling through social media, the risk of encountering a malicious site is real and growing. Fortunately, with a few smart habits and the right tools, you can protect yourself and browse with confidence. In this article, we’ll explore practical strategies to help you identify and avoid dangerous websites, keeping your personal information and devices secure.
- Ensure that you have anti-virus and anti-malware software installed, keep it up to date, and set it to run regular scans.
- Confirm that you are using a secure browser.
- Choose browsers known for strong security features:
- Google Chrome
- Mozilla Firefox
- Microsoft Edge.
- Keep your browser up to date to patch any vulnerabilities that may have arisen.
- Clear cookies and cache regularly to help prevent tracking and remove malicious scripts stored in your browser.
- Enable security features like pop-up blockers and safe browsing modes.
- Install trusted security extensions to:
- Block ads
- Enforce secure connections
- Prevent scripts from untrustworthy sites.
Once an anti-virus is installed, your browser updated, and security features enabled, you should be able to recklessly surf the web, right? Wrong. You still need to be cautious when clicking on links while browsing the Internet or reading your email.
- Hover over links to preview the URL before clicking.
- Avoid clicking on suspicious or shortened links, especially in emails or social media.
- Be cautious about where you download files and software; only download from official or well-known websites.
Safe browsing isn’t just about avoiding viruses; it’s about protecting your identity, finances, and peace of mind. By following these steps, you can significantly reduce your risk and enjoy a more secure online experience.
Cyber Smart, Dartmouth Strong