Your browser is where you read email, shop and log in to everything — which makes it the front door for most online problems. This checklist takes about ten minutes and covers the habits that prevent the most common trouble.
Keep the browser updated
Updates close security holes. Chrome, Edge, Firefox and Safari all update automatically — but only if you let them restart. If your browser shows an update prompt, restart it the same day.
Review your extensions
Extensions can see everything you do in the browser. Open the extensions page (chrome://extensions or the equivalent) and remove anything you do not recognise or no longer use. Fewer extensions means a safer and faster browser.
- Only install extensions from the official store, and be suspicious of ones asking to 'read and change all your data' without a clear reason.
- A coupon or PDF extension you installed once is not worth the risk if you never use it.
Check addresses before typing passwords
Before entering a password or card number, read the address bar. Look for misspellings and extra words in the domain. The padlock means the connection is encrypted — it does not mean the site is honest.
Be careful with downloads and pop-ups
Download programs only from the official website of the maker. Close pages that claim your computer is infected or that you have won a prize — real warnings never appear as web pages with phone numbers to call.
Use the browser's built-in protection
Make sure Safe Browsing is on (in Chrome: Settings → Privacy and security → Security → Enhanced protection). It warns you before you open known scam sites and dangerous downloads.
Quick checklist
- Browser updates itself and is current.
- Only extensions you recognise and use.
- Passwords saved in a password manager, not in text files.
- Safe Browsing / Enhanced protection switched on.
- You type bank and email addresses yourself or use bookmarks, instead of clicking links in messages.
Run through this checklist once and it keeps protecting you every day. If you found extensions or warnings you are unsure about, note them down and bring them to a Digital Checkup.