19 Feb 2025

The Cyber Security Threats Lurking in Your Web Browser

Web browsers are essential tools for accessing the internet, used by everyone daily for both business and personal use, they also present several cyber security risks, especially when it comes to protecting sensitive data and saved login credentials. If compromised, a web browser can be a “goldmine” for hackers!

Below is an overview of the key risks, along with some best practices to help mitigate them, including a lesser-known web browser suggestion for you, which has enhanced privacy features.

Key Web Browser Risks

Stored Credentials Vulnerabilities

Local Storage Exposure:

Many browsers offer to save login credentials for convenience. These credentials are stored locally on your device, often in an encrypted format. However, if an attacker gains physical or remote access to your system, through malware or exploitation of system vulnerabilities, they may extract or decrypt these stored credentials.

Weak Encryption or Master Passwords:

Some browsers may not implement strong encryption for saved credentials, or they might lack an option for a master password. Without additional protection, anyone with access to your user profile or system files might retrieve sensitive information.

Outdated Browser Software

Unpatched Vulnerabilities:

Running an outdated browser can expose you to known vulnerabilities. Attackers actively target these weaknesses to execute drive-by downloads, inject malicious scripts, or hijack sessions.

Exploitation of Known Flaws:

Cyber criminals often exploit flaws such as memory corruption or sandbox bypass vulnerabilities to steal data or manipulate browser behaviour, potentially exposing saved credentials and personal data.

Malicious Browser Extensions and Plugins

Data Interception:

Browser extensions and plugins can have extensive permissions, including access to your browsing data and input fields. A malicious or compromised extension might capture keystrokes, login credentials, or even sensitive form data.

Lack of Vetting:

Not all extensions go through rigorous security audits. Installing untrusted or poorly maintained extensions increases the risk of data leakage or exploitation.

Phishing and Social Engineering Attacks

Deceptive Web Pages:

Attackers use phishing techniques to mimic legitimate websites. When users rely on auto-filled login credentials, they may unwittingly provide their credentials to a malicious site.

Browser-Based Exploits:

Some phishing attacks involve browser vulnerabilities (like JavaScript exploits) that can bypass typical security warnings, making it easier for attackers to harvest login credentials.

Session Hijacking and Cookie Theft

Cookie Vulnerabilities:

Browsers store session cookies that keep you logged in to various sites. If an attacker can steal these cookies, via cross-site scripting (XSS) or other vulnerabilities, they might impersonate you without needing your login credentials.

Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attacks:

If you’re browsing over unsecured networks, such as a public Wi-Fi without a VPN, attackers can intercept unencrypted data, including cookies and session tokens, which can lead to session hijacking.

Cached Data and Temporary Files

Residual Sensitive Information:

Browsers often cache pages and data to improve load times. Sensitive information in cached files or temporary storage might be accessible to attackers, especially on shared or public computers.

Improper Data Deletion:

Without proper browser settings or secure deletion practices, sensitive data could persist longer than necessary, increasing the risk of unauthorised access.

Mitigation Best Practices

Keep Your Browser Updated:

Regularly update your browser to patch known vulnerabilities and ensure you have the latest security enhancements.

Manage Saved Credentials Carefully:

Consider using a dedicated password manager with strong encryption and a master password rather than relying solely on the browser’s built-in password storage.

Be Cautious with Extensions:

Install extensions from reputable sources only, review their permissions, and remove any that are unnecessary or untrusted.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):

Wherever possible, enable 2FA on accounts to add an extra layer of security, even if login credentials are compromised.

Use Secure Networks and VPNs:

Avoid using unsecured public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities. Use a trusted VPN to encrypt your data traffic.

Regularly Clear Cache and Cookies:

Periodically clear your browser’s cache and cookies, or use private/incognito browsing modes when accessing sensitive information.

Educate Yourself on Phishing:

Stay aware of phishing techniques and always verify URLs before entering your credentials. Use browser security tools that flag or block suspicious sites.

LoughTec is neutral in its views on the various web browsers, as we are familiar and work with all of them, however it is worth noting that a lesser known, but more privacy focused, browser called DuckDuckGo is worth checking out potentially as your default web browser for desktop and mobile, see below for the features.

Although above is not an exhaustive list for risks and threats, by understanding the various risks flagged above and adopting proactive security measures, you can significantly reduce the chances of your data and saved login credentials being compromised via your web browsers.

LoughTec are cyber security experts.

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