What is private browsing? 

and ways you can secure your browser.

Have you ever used a public computer to access some of your personal data? Did you know that if you do not clear the data from the computer, your information could still be there for the next user to access? Configuring the security settings in your browser can help ensure that others cannot determine the websites you have visited, your browsing habits, or any personally identifiable or confidential information you might have entered on websites. Settings for securing your browser typically are found in the browser’s Settings or Preferences dialog box in the internet options tab on your tools drop down menu.

The following are ways of securing your browser. 

1. Clear your browsing history often. Your browsing history is a list of all websites you have visited over a period of time. By default, some browsers save your browsing history for 20 days or more. Configuring your browser to clear your browsing history on exit will help prevent others from seeing the websites you have visited.

2. Enable private browsing. During private browsing, your browser does not keep track of the websites you are visiting. Websites you visit during a private browsing session will not store files on your computer, nor will they appear in your browsing history after you end the session.

3. Turn off location sharing. Location sharing gives websites access to your current location. While this can be particularly useful on websites that display the weather or business in your current location, this information also could be misused by dishonest individuals.
4. Never store passwords. Many browsers have the capability of storing your passwords so that you do not have to enter them each time you visit the same websites. Others with access to your computer, however, will be able to access these secure websites using your account information with relative ease. Above all else, do not allow public computers to store your password.

5. Clear cookies regularly. Websites may store cookies and other files on your computer. These files not only take up space, but they also may be used to track your browsing habits. Regularly clear cookies and other data that websites place on your computer.

 6. Avoid phishing websites. Phishing websites often look remarkably similar to real websites and trick visitors into entering confidential information that could be used in an identity theft scam. Many browsers have a built ­in feature to help identify phishing websites. Enable this feature and be cautious on websites labeled as unsafe.