close CyberGuy shows how you can add ChatGPT to your browser Kurt Knutsson explains how ChatGPT's functions can help you in your day-to-day life. A browser is one of the most popular apps we use. It's the gateway between the internet and its users, translating raw code into something we perceive as a web page and allowing us to interact with the web. It's safe to say that anyone who uses the internet uses a web browser.But while this tool is extremely useful, it can also be equally dangerous. For example, clicking malicious links can redirect you to harmful websites that either steal personal information or infect your device with malware.If you use a search engine like Google through Chrome, it can collect data on your searches, browsing history and even your location (if location services are enabled). Most browsers also use cookies, small files that store information about your online behavior. Let's discuss the risks associated with web browsers and how to stay safe. A person conducting a Google search on their laptop (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)How a browser doubles as spywareBrowsers are much more than simple tools to navigate the web. They are, in many ways, tools for surveillance. While they help you access websites and services, they also track your every move online to feed the ever-hungry advertising industry.First off, most browsers collect data about your searches, browsing habits and even your location. This data isn't just stored to "improve your experience," it's used to create a detailed profile of you, which is then shared with advertisers who target you with personalized ads.Google Chrome, for example, is notorious for tracking your activity. As you browse, it feeds data to Googles advertising engine, allowing it to serve highly targeted ads based on your behavior. This includes everything from your search history to the websites you visit, even down to the smallest detail, like how long you stay on a page."Google may share information about you with advertisers, business partners, sponsors, and other third parties," Google boldlymentions on its privacy policy page.Browsers also use cookies to keep tabs on you. These cookies track your activity across different sites, even after you've left a site. This means that ads you saw on one website might follow you across others, creating a persistent digital footprint. And while cookies can be blocked or deleted, many websites rely on them to function, making it hard to escape this kind of tracking. Google browser (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Even Incognito mode isnt safeEven if you're using privacy-focused browsers or tools like Incognito mode, they dont really guarantee privacy. A2020 class-action lawsuit revealed that Google kept scraping searches by gathering data from users browsing in Incognito through ad tools used by websites, picking up "potentially embarrassing" searches from millions of people. Google then used that data to track web traffic and sell ads.Its not just Google. Your internet service provider, the websites you visit and even governments can monitor your browsing activity, even in Incognito mode. All it does is hide your activity from your local browser history.WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)? A person conducting a Google search on their laptop (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)How to protect your privacyAs you all know, web browsers are essential tools for accessing the internet, but many popular options compromise your privacy by collecting extensive data. While Google Chrome is widely used, it tracks significant amounts of user information to power targeted advertising. However, there areseveral privacy-focused browser alternatives that prioritize user data protection. Also, to enhance your online security and protect your personal information, consider implementing these essential cybersecurity practices.Keep software updated: Regularlyupdate your operating system, browsers and other software to patch security vulnerabilities. Enable automatic updates whenever possible to ensure you're always protected against the latest threats.Use strong, unique passwords: Create complex passwords for each of your accounts and avoid reusing them. Consider using apassword manager to generate and securely store strong passwords.Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Activate2FA on all accounts that offer it. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification beyond your password.GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HEREBe cautious with emails and links: Avoid opening suspicious emails or clicking on unknown links. These could be phishing attempts designed to steal your information or infect your device with malware. The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe.Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.Use secure networks: When usingpublic Wi-Fi, connect through aVPN to encrypt your internet traffic. For sensitive transactions, stick to secure, private networks.Be mindful of social media sharing: Limit the personal information you share on social media platforms and adjust yourprivacy settings to control who can view your posts.VPN: Your first line of defense against browser spying:A VPN (virtual private network) encrypts your internet connection, making it difficult for anyone, including your browser, to track your online activities. By masking your IP address and routing your traffic through secure servers, a VPN not only protects your personal data from prying eyes but also helps you avoid targeted advertising and potential data breaches.Regardless of whether you are new to VPNs or not, youll want to choose trusted VPN providers known for robust encryption and no-log policies to ensure your privacy. Whether for sensitive tasks or everyday use, reputable VPN services will boost both your security and speed.By implementing these security practices and using privacy-focused browsers, you can significantly enhance your online safety and protect your personal data while browsing the web. Remember, cybersecurity is an ongoing process that requires vigilance and regular updates to your practices.Kurts key takeawayThe web browser is an essential tool for accessing the internet, but it also opens the door to a host of privacy and security risks. Whether its being tracked for ads, snooped on by your ISP or accidentally stumbling onto a malware-filled site, the risks are everywhere. Tools like Incognito mode or cookie-blocking can help a bit, but theyre not enough to truly protect you. If youre serious about staying private and secure, you need to up your game. Use a VPN, be cautious about what you click on and stay informed about the ways your browser might be working against you.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPDo you think companies have gone too far with tracking? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt:Unbeatable Best Black Friday dealsBest gifts forMen |Women |Kids |Teens |Pet loversBest deals:Laptops |DesktopsCopyright 2024 CyberGuy.com.All rights reserved. Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on "FOX & Friends." Got a tech question? Get Kurts free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.