What is Browser Leakage?
In previous blog posts, Privacy Hive has discussed the importance of choosing a privacy-oriented browser and installing browser extensions for improved online privacy. This post explores browser leakage and actions you can take to protect your online privacy.
Browser leakage refers to the private information your browser can access, which you want to keep between yourself and the browser. Modern web browsers enhance the user experience, but the various features and functions can also inadvertently expose your personal information.
Your browser has access to a significant amount of private information, which includes:
- IP Address: Your IP address can reveal your general location and is visible to all websites you visit.
- Browser History: Your browser will store websites you visit.
- Cookies: These small files are stored on your computer by websites you visit.
- Form Data: Website forms can remember information you enter into your browser.
- Passwords: If you choose to save them, your browser can store passwords for quick access.
- Autofill Data: includes your name, address, and credit card numbers if you save them.
- System Information: Websites can extract data about your system through JavaScript and Web APIs.
Websites to Determine the Extent of Browser Leakage
Websites like Browser Leaks and Privacy.net Analyzer offer a range of tests to evaluate the security and privacy of your web browser. These tests identify ways websites may leak your IP address, collect information about your device, and perform browser fingerprinting.
Browser Leaks is a comprehensive suite of tools designed to evaluate the security and privacy of your web browser. It provides many tests that identify ways websites may leak your IP address, collect information about your laptop, and perform browser fingerprinting. The site provides analysis and offers a complete examination of your online presence and potential vulnerabilities. It includes IP address Whois lookup, TCP/IP operating system fingerprinting, Web RTC, DNS, and IP6 leaks. Understanding these risks, you can take appropriate steps to protect your online privacy and minimize exposure.
Privacy.net Analyzer is another tool that lists information about website advertisements and widget collection from your web browser. It provides an analysis of your geolocation and browser permissions. This site offers tests you can perform to evaluate your browser privacy. The site helps you understand what data is exposed from your browser and how the information can identify and track your behavior using techniques like IP lookups and fingerprinting. This knowledge can help you take the necessary steps to enhance your online privacy.
There are several ways you can control what information your browser shares with websites:
- Delete your browser history: If you do not want to see advertisements based on your previous online activity, delete cookies, clear your browser, and search history.
- Adjust your privacy settings: The privacy settings in your browser give you some control over the information websites collect about you. For example, you can block websites from seeing your browsing history or decide not to share your location.
- Screen Sharing: Be cautious when sharing your screen with websites. Firefox, for example, warns users not to share when a browser window is visible on your screen unless you trust that website.
- Sync Browser Data: Some browsers allow you to sync your browser data with your account, giving you control over the shared information.
- Use Privacy Browsing Mode: Some browsers, like Firefox, have a private browsing mode that deletes your browsing history after you end your session; however, it does not block websites from seeing your online history.
Staying informed and vigilant is the key to protecting yourself from browser leaks. Regularly update your browser and its plugins, and always be cautious about the websites you visit and the information you share online.
Remember, no solution is perfect; the best defense combines these methods. Stay informed about the latest privacy threats and defenses to ensure online privacy.