Securing the web browser from online threats is the first priority for everyone. Securing the web browser works well if the right tricks have been employed but there are many misconceptions too that hinder web browser security.
This article provides you an insight into the myths of browser security followed by users as well as the facts of web browsing security.
Below mentioned are the 5 browser security misconceptions of users today:
Strict browsing policy allowing users’ access to only trusted sites
Furthermore, nowadays hackers have started targeting a larger number of popular, mainstream and trusted websites for inserting malware. Therefore the idea of allowing visitors to visit only trusted websites is now a mere misconception.
Scanning of downloaded files for viruses improves security
It is generally believed that the security is ensured if downloaded files are thoroughly scanned for viruses or any other infection. But it is not true always as viruses are now present on even legitimate websites. PC hackers have evolved different ways of exploiting websites by using techniques like SQL. By using these ways they are now able to inject viruses and malware into legitimate websites as well. So the scanning of downloaded files for viruses is not doing any good if the virus is coming from the mainstream website.
To prevent this kind of situation, you should make sure that you have employed an advanced multi-layered web protection that lets you avail coordinated defense. In a coordinated defense system you get double filtering and emulated Javascript in real time to help you detect suspicious behavior of programs.
Use of secure browser provides better protection
Many users believe that Google Chrome is the most secure browser but it is a myth as no browser today is free from vulnerabilities. Hackers are continuously using new exploits to hack browsers and therefore claiming that a particular browser is immune from threats is a fallacy.
Reality is that all browsers available today are prone to infection but the security risks associated with browsers can be managed using certain tips and tricks. First of all, the user needs to keep the number of browsers used to as low as possible. Moreover, users need to keep the browser patched by installing security patches released by the developer. Using these tricks you can reduce the chances of infection and vulnerabilities to the minimum.
Macs have better security privileges than Windows-based PCs
Macs run on the Mac OS X operating system (OS) which is an entirely different OS from Microsoft Windows. Macs are considered a safer PC which has many in-built security features. But considering the recent Flashback Trojan incident, this notion doesn’t stand true anymore. It has been established that hackers have evolved ways of intruding security arrangements of Mac PCs. The Flashback malware had managed to exploit Java vulnerability on the Mac.
To deal with the situation, experts recommend using the Mac antivirus program. Moreover, you must ensure that all the Mac applications and add-ons are fully patched and updated to prevent potential security vulnerabilities.
VPN or cloud service is the best way to protect offsite users
At one point of time it was true that VPN or cloud service is the best way to protect offsite users but this notion is no more valid. A few years back users enjoyed secure web surfing through a cloud service or enjoyed a secure web gateway by using a VPN connection but now we have better ways to replace this arrangement.
Integration of web policy enforcement and scanning of web content directly into the network layer on your PC is the most reliable, scalable and affordable means of ensuring security on the web. Using this mechanism you can stay secured on the web even when you are on the move.
By staying away from these misconceptions and adopting the modern means of PC security you can effectively deal with the current web threats. If you really want a good security solution then look for the combination of the best elements of endpoint security, cloud and gateway solutions. A system based on the integration of web protection and the endpoint security offers absolute protection with little chances of security lapses.
