Comparing five privacy-friendly web browsers
Under the Radar
© Image © korkut82, 123RF.com
Many users don't realize that some of the leading web browsers collect user data without asking for permission. This article looks at five secure alternatives for greater privacy.
The functionality of graphical browsers is largely similar, but they differ greatly in terms of security. For example, some browsers, such as Google Chrome, are considered overly chatty when it comes to personal data and downright negligent with regard to user tracking, but other browsers offer default configurations that make it difficult or impossible to identify users and track their behavior. This article investigates some browsers that are known for providing a high level of privacy.
Security
Web browsers are generally considered to be far more secure today than they were even two decades ago. This improvement is primarily due to the intensive efforts of developers to eliminate vulnerabilities. Unfortunately, the spectrum of potential threats is greater due to new attack and tracking technologies, which means that hardening a browser involves a variety of measures.
The developers' efforts focus on three main areas. The browsers themselves offer various options in the configuration dialogs that make it more difficult to track web browsing behavior. Some of these configuration options are also aimed at preventing invasive types of tracking. However, if the settings are too strict, the browser might fail to display some websites correctly.
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