Did you knew about the Google Chrome Vulnerabilities?
Since its launch in 2008, Google Chrome has been the most popular web browser, with a market share of 65.47% as of June 20202. This comes as no surprise as the browser is one of the fastest in the market, and with a clean, user-friendly and minimalistic design.
But, even with its many advantages, Google Chrome has its flaws. You may already know that Google gathers a lot of information about users to help them display targeted ads. That means you risk losing your privacy when you use Google Chrome. But, Many Popular sites like Facebook, Instagram also does this.
Another troubling issue with this browser is security. Barely three weeks after the launch of Google Chrome 81, the company reported that two highly-rated security weak links were found in the browser, prompting yet another update. The new security vulnerabilities could enable a cybercriminal to take control of a compromised system, and we all know that this doesn’t end well.
Google Chrome Vulnerabilities
After discovering this flaw, Google released a new Chrome version 81.0.4044.113, which was to update itself automatically for most desktop users. But, you don’t have to just sit back and wait for the update to take place. You can do it manually yourself.
On your Google Chrome browser, go to Help > About Google Chrome and launch the page to start checking for updates. It will also show you the browser version your PC is currently running on. Ensure you are on 81.0.4044.113 or later Chrome version. If you’re not, you should be prompted to update, after which you should restart your browser to implement the patch.
It’s also a good idea to turn on automatic updates so that you won’t have to run updates every time Google releases new patches.
Quick Google Chrome Security Tips
Apart from updating your browser to the latest version, here are more ways to protect yourself from Google Chrome security and privacy risks.
Free Security Extensions/Add-ons
Extensions are small programs that add new features to your browser and personalize your browsing experience which helps us in our workflow.
Read More: Best Free Security Extensions for Google Chrome
Enable 2-Step Verification
By enabling 2-step authentication, you are putting an extra layer of protection to your Google account. Besides your password, you will be required to enter a randomly selected code every time you attempt to log into your account.
To enable two-step verification, go to settings, and select manage account. Tap on security at the top bar and select two-step verification under the “Signing in to Google” icon.
Tweak Your Content Settings
You can protect your browsing by customizing your privacy settings, for instance turning these features and services off. And, while at it, don’t forget to activate “Do Not Track” and “Safe Browsing” requests.
Google Chrome offers several built-in web services and features meant to enhance your browsing experience. The problem is that these services are activated by default, and are likely to collect data and send it to Google servers. The company will then use this data to sell you highly personalized ads.
Use Premium VPN
When you use a VPN to browse the internet, the VPN server acts as the basis of your data, making it impossible for third parties to see whatever you are doing online. A VPN is like a filter that hides all the information you are transmitting and receiving into hogwash so that even if someone got hold of the data, it would be useless to them.
So, use a VPN extension for Chrome browser to help improve your privacy and security.
Conclusion
Hurray !! Congratulations. I hope this quick tip about Google Chrome Vulnerabilities will help you. For some individuals, not using a browser designed by an advertising company saves them from data harvesting.
But, for those who can’t avoid Google Chrome, there are ways to make this browser respect your privacy and security. Use the above tips to stay safe while still enjoying the benefits of using Google Chrome.
If you have any questions, suggestions, feedback please don’t hesitate to write them in the comment box below because it will help us to improve or correct our contents. Thanks, Happy FOSS Computing.
Kool Arpan is a tech enthusiastic who loves blogging and writing articles on technology. He loves sharing knowledge to the others by any means and medium.