How do I browse the internet safely?

Use a reputable browser with automatic updates, enable HTTPS-only mode, use a DNS-level content filter like Cloudflare 1.1.1.1 for Families, install a reputable ad blocker, avoid clicking pop-ups, verify URLs before entering credentials, and use a VPN on public Wi-Fi.

Do I need a VPN for safe browsing?

A VPN is essential on public Wi-Fi (coffee shops, airports, hotels) where your traffic can be intercepted. For home use, a VPN adds privacy by preventing your ISP from tracking browsing activity. Choose a paid, no-log VPN provider -- free VPNs often monetize your data.

Safe Browsing Checklist — You're Already a Target

🌐 Public WiFi, fake hotspots, and invisible trackers are everywhere. Protect your browsing at home and on the go.

🌐 VPN & Network Security

A VPN encrypts your internet traffic so no one can see what you're doing, even on public WiFi.

Install and use a reputable VPN on all devicesUse Mullvad, ProtonVPN, or ExpressVPN. Avoid free VPNs—they sell your data. Use VPN especially on public WiFi. Enable VPN kill switchIf your VPN disconnects, kill switch stops all internet traffic so your IP address is never exposed. Set VPN to auto-connect on WiFiYour VPN should automatically enable whenever you connect to public WiFi. Most VPN apps have this setting. Use your phone's hotspot instead of public WiFiYour phone's data connection is more secure than public WiFi. Set up personal hotspot and use it for laptops at cafes.

🏠 Home Router Security

Your WiFi router is the gateway to all your devices. Secure it properly.

Change your router's default passwordLog into your router (192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) and change the admin password from the default (usually printed on the router). Update your router's firmwareGo to your router's admin panel and check for firmware updates. Install any available updates immediately. Change your WiFi SSID and password to something strongYour WiFi name (SSID) shouldn't reveal your router model. Use a strong password (20+ characters, random). Set up DNS filtering on your home networkUse Cloudflare 1.1.1.3 (Family Shield) or OpenDNS Family Shield to block malware and adult sites on your home network.

📱 WiFi & Device Settings

Configure your devices to avoid automatic WiFi connections and fake hotspots.

Disable auto-connect to WiFi networksIn WiFi settings, turn off "Connect Automatically" for all networks. Criminals set up fake hotspots with known names (Starbucks, Airport, etc) that your phone remembers. Disable WiFi scanning (location services) Disable Bluetooth when not in useBluetooth can be exploited from a distance. Turn it off unless you're actively using a Bluetooth device. Forget old WiFi networks on all devicesYour phone remembers every WiFi network it's ever connected to. Forget networks from old jobs, hotels, and cafes.

This checklist is from You're Already a Target by Corey White.

This is the full list. Most of it will not apply to you. Remi finds which of these actually matter for your browsing, puts them in order, and walks you through them one at a time.

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