How Safe is Firefox? 4 Ways to Strengthen Security

How Safe is Firefox

Firefox has historically been one of the most popular web browsers, as users have enjoyed its interface, speed, and security. However, with cybercrime on the rise, it is essential to improve security as much as possible to ensure the data you transfer through Firefox remains safe.


Here are four key ways you can strengthen security on Firefox

Strengthen security on Firefox

  1. Enable “Firefox Content Blocking”
  2. Don't store passwords in Firefox
  3. Disable Firefox Telemetry
  4. Avoid installing too many add-ons and modifications

Let's explore all of these points and see exactly why they can help you remain safe and secure while browsing.


Enable “Firefox Content Blocking”

Content Blocking is a relatively new feature that allows you to block:

  • Cookies
  • Tracking content
  • Fingerprinting and
  • Cryptominers, depending on whether the feature is set to Strict, Standard, or Custom mode.

When content blocking is enabled, you won't see specific content on the website you're visiting. The blocked content will mainly be from third-party trackers and advertisers.

Additionally, if there are sites that you trust, you can disable content blocking specifically for them.


Don't store passwords in Firefox

Having Firefox remember your passwords may sound convenient, but it's a major security risk that can leave your login credentials and information exposed to various threats.

By using Infostealers, which is a type of malware, hackers can easily steal browser data, including saved passwords. If you want to store your passwords securely, it is best to use a third-party password manager, which is far more difficult to crack.


Disable Firefox telemetry

Disable Firefox telemetry

Telemetry is technical and interaction data that Mozilla can gather while you're browsing. Firefox claims to use this data for running studies and determining ways to improve its services. While this is probably true, as a security measure, it is always best to disable any form of data or behavior intel gathering.

You can disable Firefox telemetry by following these steps:

  1. Open the Main menu
  2. Navigate to Options > Privacy & Security > Firefox Data Collection and Use
  3. Uncheckall boxes

Avoid installing too many add-ons and modifications

Installing too many add-ons will not only decrease the performance of your browser, but it's also a significant security risk as these add-ons are created by third-party developers. Some of them pay little to no attention to how secure their products are.

Therefore, it's best to be a little more selective when choosing the add-ons you use and only install those that will genuinely benefit your browsing experience. Read reviews and security evaluations before installing anything. Also, don’t allow an add-on to access any more data than is necessary (e.g., if it doesn’t need your location and other personal details to function properly, then it shouldn’t have access to this information).

Use Add-Ons That Improve Security

Luckily, not all add-ons are potentially harmful, and some can even improve your browser's security.

Here are some popular security-strengthening add-ons for Firefox you can try:

  • Ghostery – blocks all add-ons and pop-ups from web pages and drastically improves performance
  • Blur – masks sensitive information and blocks tracking
  • NoScript Security Suite – an advanced tool that provides extra protection when browsing and prevents breaches

Is Firefox Safe?

With its security features that consistently get updated, it's safe to say that Firefox is a secure and reliable browser.

Firefox uses security indicators next to the web address bar to notify users when their personal information may be at risk.

The HTTPS indicator ensures that you're entering a secure connection. In contrast, a non-SSL indicator means the site isn't using a secure connection, and you should think twice before providing any personal information.

By following some of the previously mentioned tips for improving browser security, you can be sure that all of your data will stay protected.


Conclusion

Firefox is a safe browser to use, but there are certain things you can do to maximize its security, such as enabling “firefox content blocking,” being selective about the add-ons you use, and more.

All in all, Firefox is doing an excellent job at staying a step ahead of security vulnerabilities and adding features that can help users customize their browsing experience. As long as you stay mindful of the threats and act accordingly, your data should be safe!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *