Internet browser Security is one of, if not the most important aspect to Internet security. Unfortunately, it is also one of the most neglected.
It is much easier in a malicious hackers mind to exploit a hole in your Internet browser when you visit their site than it is for them to search for you and once they find your internet connection crack through your commercial firewall software or home router firewall and search for what is unsecured on your PC.
So the path of least resistance is the concept that most criminal hackers will take when attempting to steal your personally sensitive information. All Internet criminals know that you are going to use a browser to access websites. So they constantly watch for and utilize information from security bulletins regarding Internet browser exploits.
Once a known Internet browser exploit has been published the criminal will then search in their underground network of crackers and hackers for the code to use on their website so they can leverage your Internet browser to get into your PC.
With these 5 simple steps you will effectively reduce your exposure to browser based threats and exploits.
1. Use a browser other than Internet Explorer - Internet Explorer is the most well known browser and thus it has the most exploits and malware vulnerabilities.
2. Use a browser that utilizes a Phishing Filter - Phishing websites are created every minute with automated tools which replicate well known websites.
3. Use a browser that has a pop-up blocker - Pop-Up blockers can effectively prevent auto installation of browser based malware. Most browsers support this enhancement. Make certain that you have it turned on. Do not install every browser based plug-in that you are prompted to install!
4. Do not install tool bars when you download software - A lot of free software will have a check box that is automatically checked when you download software. Some may not even display the check box. This option states that you automatically agree to have a browser tool bar installed which will: A) monitor your Internet surfing habits. B) Display pop-ups based on your surfing habits. C) In some cases the tool bars can even be used as a keystroke logger which captures your username and passwords to the sites you visit.
5. Do not automatically display active content - If you must use Internet Explorer then make certain that you secure the browser by disabling activex and other browser plugins from being ran automatically. These plugs-ins can be and are used to directly crack your browser and use it as a vessel into the rest of your PC.
For further reference on securing your Internet Browser you may post to our discussion area or visit the CERT website and view their in-depth guide.