rowsers are our gateway to the online world. No matter the device, they allow us to do everything from online shopping, making reservations, streaming shows, and more.
With all this daily use, it‘s no surprise that they can be used to gather information and monitor our lives. And this is something cybercriminals are waking up to.
Research from 2022 estimates that browsers are the second-most exploited application worldwide. Criminals are hungry to scrape sensitive data that we may enter into websites. Or collect information to use in fraud.
And the problem will only get worse as more people come online. So, how can you bolster your browser defenses? Or get peace of mind that the valuable information you enter is safe?
Why keeping Google Chrome safe is essential
With over 65% of the global market share, Google Chrome is the world‘s most popular web browser by a fair margin. This puts a prime bounty on the software, though. Cybercriminals are motivated to develop attacks based on Chrome to maximize their potential reach.
Thankfully, Chrome extensions are bridging the gap within our online security. These little “add-ons“ can be installed directly within the browser and come with amazing features. Many of them focus on improving our cybersecurity.
One simple extension can make all the difference in protecting you from a cyberattack. From ad blockers to proxy extensions, let‘s find out which ones are must-downloads for your devices right now.
Key extensions for enhancing Google Chrome safety
Extensions come in a variety of forms. One of the best ways to bolster the security of your Google Chrome is by using specialized security extensions.
These are small software applications that add security features to your Chrome browser. They work silently in the background and can help protect your personal information, block advertisements, and more.
Below are the best ones for you to consider:
Ad blockers
Online adverts can be the bane of the internet. They can be distracting and intrusive and slow down the speed of your Google Chrome. Some can be used to trick you into downloading malware.
Ad blockers are tailor-made extensions that stop advertisements from pestering you. Two of the best extensions include:
Adblock Plus
Adblock Plus is a free extension with over 500 million downloads and counting. Install it and pin it to your toolbar to enjoy ad-free internet. Everything from pop-ups to video ads, annoying banners, and more will disappear.
Various customization options allow you to hide web pages or filter specific adverts. You can also allow “acceptable ads“ to appear. This allows you to support your favorite websites that use ethical advertisements.
VPN proxy extension
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a versatile cybersecurity tool that encrypts internet connections. This means that all data sent or received by devices will be secured.
A VPN proxy extension for Chrome is a lightweight version of a VPN app. Working directly within the browser, it can protect browser activity without compromising browser speed.
A VPN proxy extension is simple to install and even simpler to use. It can give you all the benefits of encryption focused solely on your browser activity. Moreover, premium VPN providers also offer proxy extensions with integrated ad-blocking and malware-detection features. So, this can be your all-in-one solution.
What are proxy extensions?
A proxy extension is a special type of add-on that allows users to reroute their internet traffic through a “proxy” server. Working directly within a browser, it is a method of encryption that can protect anonymity, enhance privacy, and bypass network restrictions.
Benefits of proxy extensions
There are many benefits to using a proxy extension for Chrome. These include:
- Bypassed geo-restrictions: Masking your IP address can help you access blocked or restricted content online.
- Flexibility: As an extension, you can turn it on and off with a simple click.
- Accessibility: Proxy extensions are easy to install and use.
- Added features: Many proxy extensions have additional cybersecurity features like ad blockers and malware detection.
Installing extensions for optimal safety
Before installing an extension, first check that you are visiting the official Chrome Web Store. This ensures that anything you install has gone through basic quality controls. The next step is to evaluate the credibility of the offered proxy extension itself:
