Have you ever completed a secure login session and then hit the ‘X’ to close the browser instead of signing out? If you have, you’re not practicing good browser hygiene!
Good browser hygiene – or cyber security hygiene – is when you practise good habits to protect yourself by minimizing the risk of fraud or identity theft. This could be logging out of accounts before closing website browsers, not saving your passwords with the password saver on your browser, and clearing your cache after visiting websites.
Why should I log out of my accounts instead of closing the browser window?
It’s important that you log out before closing any internet windows because you could remain logged in even when the window is closed. This means that if your computer is infected with malware, hackers might access your account – like your bank account, government accounts – and use your information. Getting into the habit of logging out of your account when you leave a secure website is an important step of protecting your identity and information.
Saving my passwords with the ‘remember my password’ feature is so convenient! Why shouldn’t I use it?
As convenient and helpful saving your passwords can be with the ‘remember my password’ feature on your internet browser, it’s not practicing good cyber hygiene. The problem with using the ‘remember my password’ feature is when you have a shared computer with other people in your household or office–anyone can log into your accounts, even criminals!
Furthermore, browser-based password managers don’t sync across your devices – so while you might use the ‘remember’ my password’ on your computer, it won’t show up on your phone and you’ll have to remember the password, anyway.
Instead, use a stand-alone password manager, which is a more secure cloud-based way of storing your passwords all in one spot, as they allow for a complex primary password and typically offer two-factor authentication. Remember, always create strong passwords and PINs!
Two-factor authentication is an additional step to confirm it is you that actually accessing your account, whether through a verification code sent to your email or by text to enter after your password, or even fingerprint verification on your phone! Always enable two-factor authentication when ever possible – it’s an extra step for security to help prevent hackers from easily accessing your identification, accounts and data.
What does clearing my browser cache do and how does that help my browser hygiene?
If you’re not tech-savvy, there’s a good chance you’re not aware of the benefits of cleaning your browser cache. Very simply put, your browser cache is a temporary storage area on your computer that memorizes the most recent website pages you’ve visited. The purpose of this is so that, if you return to that website, it will load faster because you’ve visited in the past, especially if nothing was changed on the website. That memory is storing information, files used to run online applications, and downloads.
However, if you don’t clear your browser cache every so often, that memory can cause problems. The old website can become corrupt, or old applications can make your computer run slower, and your information might be accessible to a hacker. Clearing your cache prevents these issues and protects you.
Get into the habit of practicing good cyber hygiene. You are the first line of defense to protect your personal information and identity against criminals. Educate yourself and stay aware of ongoing and new cyber attacks and remember to always sign out of your accounts!
Keep up to date with the latest Fraud Alerts on our website and learn how to spot them. If you think you are a victim of fraud, please contact us immediately! We’re here to help.
Additional sources:
“Best practices for passphrases and passwords.” Canadian Centre for Cyber Security. February 2024.
“Why do I need to clear my browser cache?” HelpCentre. Government of Canada. 10 June 2024.