If the browser is not configured properly, it can quickly become a gateway for cybercriminals. Firefox is one of the most common ones. Learn what security settings you can make to surf safely while you work.
Mozilla Firefox – success story of a free web browser
Since the year 2002, people all over the world have been using the “Firefox” browser (then called Phoenix, hence the emblem) to explore the Internet. According to Statista, it is the most used web browser in the world after Chrome, with a market share of around 10 percent.
Behind the invention of the free software is the non-profit organization Mozilla Project. An association of programmers founded in 1998, their mission, according to their own statements, is “to ensure that the Internet is a worldwide public resource, accessible to all.”
Mozilla Firefox is committed to security, privacy and transparency. For example, Mozilla offers the opportunity to participate in weekly company meetings, and in early June it released a new, more stringent anti-tracking policy.
What can happen if the security and privacy settings in the browser are not configured properly?
At worst, cybercriminals can gain access to your device and, by extension, your data. This can happen in various ways, for example through:
- A targeted exploitation of security vulnerabilities due to a lack of updates,
- Failure to block malicious software, such as that which is transmitted by means of alleged online advertising, or even
- Lack of blocking of malicious websites.
In terms of privacy, you may run the risk of companies tracking your behavior on the Internet after you visit their websites. The information is processed to improve online services, but mainly for advertising purposes. Others would like to access your location or your microphone. At this point, each user must decide for themselves how much they want to reveal about themselves.
How can I use Firefox safely?
Firefox usually has the essential security settings preset. Nevertheless, check again whether everything is configured correctly and take additional security measures if necessary.