The internet is full of information and data on almost every topic of the world. This has a lot of benefits for users. But at the same time, it is a dangerous place if you are not careful.
No matter how secure a platform is, it always has some vulnerabilities. Like other platforms, Chrome faces vulnerabilities even after various security measures. The question here is whether your online data is secure with Chrome or not.
According to research conducted by the Identity Theft Resource Center, the data of around 422 million people was compromised due to data breaches in 2022.
This article explains how Chrome’s security features work and how it secures your data.
Security Features in Chrome
With continuous updates in security, Chrome features various security options. The proper implementation of these features makes the user data secure while browsing.
Some of these features include:
Phishing Protection
Google Chrome has extended its real-time phishing protection for websites. Users need to enable the option “Make searches and browsing better” to enhance phishing protection on their websites.
With advanced phishing protection, Google aims to secure your Google account password even if you have not enabled the Sync option. It helps save all the passwords that are saved on your Google account.
Disable Data Syncing
Users mostly save bookmarks, extensions, and browsing history on their devices. Enabling the sync option will share the device’s data with Google. Chrome allows users to disable the syncing feature to protect their data.
You can do this by following:
- On Google Chrome, tap on the three dots in the top right corner.
- Open the settings and choose “People”.
- You will see an option to turn on or off the Sync option on the right of your account’s name.
- Turn off the sync to enhance privacy.
Enable “Safe Browsing”
The safe browsing option provided by Chrome prevents malicious sites from reaching your browser. It provides a “Do Not Track” Feature to stop websites from tracking what the user browses.
This also lets users spend as much time browsing as they want without tracking. Websites become unable to track users’ interests and prevent excessive advertisements.
What Happens to Your Data On Chrome?
The vulnerabilities in Chrome are due to the large amount of statistics needed to code on it. The statistics on Chrome include a larger database and the number of people using it. It is a fact that the larger the database, the more the vulnerabilities.
Google Chrome collects data on your location, browsing history, and search history. The data and information saved in the form of bookmarks are linked to devices and individuals. The founder and privacy consultant of Miss IC Greek, Rowenna Fielding says that Google can create the whole picture of a person by getting the data of their activities on Chrome.
It knows your vulnerability and interests. This picture is enhanced with data from other Google-linked applications and platforms including Gmail. It undoubtedly secures users’ data with advanced security features, but that doesn’t mean data is not collected by Google.
Protecting Your Data While Using Chrome
Here are some of the browsing tips to make browsing safe on Chrome.
Regularly Update Browsers and Plugins
From every device you use to any online platform, a browser is the first thing you use. There have been various developments and regularly released updates in a web browser. Therefore you need to regularly update your Chrome browser and plugins to keep it secure from hackers.
Use VPN
VPN for Chrome helps browse without getting tracked. They encrypt your online browsing and make it anonymous. Those using public wifi are more vulnerable to data breaches. Using a secure Chrome VPN can save them from identity theft.
Prefer Websites Starting with HTTPS
HTTPS is the more secure version of HTTP. It makes the browsing experience safe. Keep in mind that the websites you browse must start from HTTPS. It is based on a Secure Socket Layer (SSL). It encrypts the data before transmitting it so that unauthorized users can’t get their hands on your personal data.
Install Antivirus and Firewall Protection
Human error in browsing is the real thing. You can always click on the malicious sites no mater how much your browser is safe and secure. Therefore, you must use antivirus and firewall protection software to protect your device from malicious attacks.
Conclusion
Chrome shares most of your online data with Google, making it less secure. It has been reported that users who enable the security features are less likely to fall victim to phishing scams. Therefore, you must also take proper security measures including the use of a Chrome VPN before you browse on Chrome.
