Which Browsers?

Which browsers

Since the COVID19 lockdown, the security of personal phones and personal computers has been more important than ever before in the history. Be aware that sophisticated hackers will hack you first and then leverage to hack your employer and contacts. Choosing a right browser for your smartphone and laptop is therefore important.

Here are my personal preferences.

WHAT I AVOID

Due to my paranoia about cybersecurity and privacy, I avoid the following browsers:

Your views may be different on Firefox, etc. May I suggest you read their privacy policies, examine their sources of funding and also run a privacy check using "experte.com"?

(Note: I do not know about the KaiOS Browser and would appreciate your view.)

WHAT I PREFER

We are not limited to using a single browser. Below are my personal preferences as of January 6, 2024, for Linux, Windows, and iOS/iPadOS devices.

Brave Browser:

This is my preferred choice for day-to-day activities. Its default settings are acceptable, but if you or your contacts are considered 'high-value targets,' it's crucial to adjust the settings for enhanced privacy and security.

Google Chrome Canary:

I use Canary solely for its ability to provide web developers with the latest features for testing website performance. I regularly clear Google History.

Chromium or Ungoogled Chromium:

Chromium serves as the foundation for various browsers (Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Opera, Brave, Vivaldi, etc.). While Chromium is open-source, there is a variant known as "Ungoogled Chromium," designed to block any connections to Google. I use Chromium (without browser add-ons) to assess connection speeds.

Tor Browser:

I exclusively use this for cybersecurity research on the DarkNet. Please refrain from using it for any other purposes, as the DarkNet is rife with illegal activities and materials. Even casual browsing can lead to serious consequences. Consider yourself warned; I won't be delivering oranges to your jail cell.

BROWSER ADD-ONS I USE

I generally steer clear of add-ons. Period.

Five years ago, I used EFF's two add-ons, "HTTPS Everywhere" and "Privacy Badger." However, since these features are now integrated into Chromium and Brave, respectively, I find no need for them in 2024. Currently, the only add-ons I consider worthwhile are:

It's crucial to exercise extreme caution with fake add-ons. For instance, refrain from installing free VPN or ChatGPT/AI add-ons unless you're absolutely certain of the developer's identity, including their name and home address, and possess a Level 10 expertise in Krav Maga for self-defence.

What else?

As browsers are installed on a smartphone or computer, I will cover those topics in tomorrow's blog post.

I would like to know which browsers you use on your personal devices and why? DMs are always open.

Santosh Pandit

6 January 2024

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