The best secure browsers for privacy in 2025: Expert tested
The Internet is a battleground for user privacy. Websites are flooded with ad-sponsored content and tracking scripts. In addition, marketers can scrape browsing histories to fingerprint you, creating shadow profiles across different online services for targeted advertising.
These activities are invasive, but you don't have to consent to them, especially if you have chosen a browser that can help you stay anonymous. When looking for a secure browser, investigate how advertising trackers and cookies are managed. Find out whether search histories are stored or shared, and whether the company has transparent privacy policies.
What is the best secure browser for privacy right now?
ZDNET experts have kept a finger on the pulse of the secure browser market for decades, and many of us have tried and tested different privacy-focused options over the years. Brave is my top pick for the best browser for privacy, based on its ad-tracking prevention, security settings, usability, and speed.
If you're after a browser and search engine for private queries, you can't go wrong with DuckDuckGo.
Read on to find out the rest of my top picks for the best secure browsers for privacy in 2025.
Sort by AllBest secure browsers for privacy in 2025
Show less View now at BraveBrave is a Chromium-based browser that blocks ads, fingerprinting, and ad-trackers by default, and is one of my favorite browsers overall.
Why we like it: Brave has millions of users worldwide. The company removed Google code from its Chromium version to improve user privacy, including some account integration, background sync, and inline extensions.
Brave also has several privacy-enhancing settings, including blocking third-party ad trackers, upgrading unsecured HTTPS connections, and blocking cookies and fingerprinting. The company says disabling invasive ads and trackers improves loading times on desktop and mobile.
Brave operates a "Tor mode" that provides anonymized onion network routing. The browser developer offers a VPN and firewall service that protects sessions, even outside the browser, and an AI-based search engine.
The company's business model relies on privacy-protecting ads that pay publishers and users when users pay attention to ads. Brave is transparent about this revenue stream, wherein users are rewarded in crypto tokens only if they opt into ad viewing.
Also: 10 common dangers VPNs won't protect you from online - and how to avoid them
As of version 1.68, Brave became the first iOS browser to automatically attempt to upgrade all sites to HTTPS by default. In version 1.75 on desktop, users can add their own scriptlets to a page, which Brave says "allows for better control over [their] browsing experience." You can also block annoying elements with a tap on Android.
Who it's for: Many users say the browser exceeds their expectations, although others find some functionality, such as VPN connectivity, could be improved. I enjoy using Brave, but it takes some time to get used to, especially if you're using Chrome or Edge. It's one of the better secure browser options on the market.
If you don't mind a small learning curve, Brave is for you.
Brave also offers a feature called "Off the Record" (OTR) for users who may be victims of intimate partner violence. The browser developer says the feature "aims to help people who need to hide their browsing behavior from others who have access to their computer or phone."
Who should look elsewhere: As Brave has recently updated its virtual private network (VPN) with more device support and server selections, it will be interesting to see if users report a more positive experience. But if VPN usage is important, you'll need to find a different browser or sign up for a standalone VPN.
Brave features: Chromium-based | Blocks third-party ad trackers | Private search | Blocks cookies | Incognito windows | Onion routing | VPN | Off the Record browsing | AI assistant | iOS HTTPS by default | Google Play rating: 4.7 | App Store rating: 4.8
Pros
- Fast
- Not in the traditional online ad business
- Privacy-focused by default
- Chromium-based
- Some users report compute resource issues
Brave is a Chromium-based browser that blocks ads, fingerprinting, and ad-trackers by default, and is one of my favorite browsers overall.
Why we like it: Brave has millions of users worldwide. The company removed Google code from its Chromium version to improve user privacy, including some account integration, background sync, and inline extensions.
Brave also has several privacy-enhancing settings, including blocking third-party ad trackers, upgrading unsecured HTTPS connections, and blocking cookies and fingerprinting. The company says disabling invasive ads and trackers improves loading times on desktop and mobile.
Brave operates a "Tor mode" that provides anonymized onion network routing. The browser developer offers a VPN and firewall service that protects sessions, even outside the browser, and an AI-based search engine.
The company's business model relies on privacy-protecting ads that pay publishers and users when users pay attention to ads. Brave is transparent about this revenue stream, wherein users are rewarded in crypto tokens only if they opt into ad viewing.
Also: 10 common dangers VPNs won't protect you from online - and how to avoid them
As of version 1.68, Brave became the first iOS browser to automatically attempt to upgrade all sites to HTTPS by default. In version 1.75 on desktop, users can add their own scriptlets to a page, which Brave says "allows for better control over [their] browsing experience." You can also block annoying elements with a tap on Android.
Who it's for: Many users say the browser exceeds their expectations, although others find some functionality, such as VPN connectivity, could be improved. I enjoy using Brave, but it takes some time to get used to, especially if you're using Chrome or Edge. It's one of the better secure browser options on the market.
If you don't mind a small learning curve, Brave is for you.
Brave also offers a feature called "Off the Record" (OTR) for users who may be victims of intimate partner violence. The browser developer says the feature "aims to help people who need to hide their browsing behavior from others who have access to their computer or phone."
Who should look elsewhere: As Brave has recently updated its virtual private network (VPN) with more device support and server selections, it will be interesting to see if users report a more positive experience. But if VPN usage is important, you'll need to find a different browser or sign up for a standalone VPN.
Brave features: Chromium-based | Blocks third-party ad trackers | Private search | Blocks cookies | Incognito windows | Onion routing | VPN | Off the Record browsing | AI assistant | iOS HTTPS by default | Google Play rating: 4.7 | App Store rating: 4.8
When it comes to DuckDuckGo, user privacy comes first.
Why we like it: The company, which offers a privacy-focused search engine and browser, is a vocal supporter of consumer privacy rights and now handles millions of user search queries daily.
There is a growing appetite for privacy-focused alternatives to tech giants like Meta and Google. DuckDuckGo's Privacy Essentials extension for Chrome, Firefox, and Microsoft Edge is also popular. Its reputation is built on the idea that it does not collect user data but can provide the same search results as those that do.
DuckDuckGo was once only a search engine, but the developers then released a mobile-friendly browser app, followed by a desktop version. The organization's browser provides private search, website protection and blockers, web encryption, and more.
Also: 5 great Chrome browser alternatives that put your privacy first
DuckDuckGo is experimenting with AI-assisted technologies to improve its search experience, including anonymously accessing GPT models, known as DuckDuckGo AI Chat. Users appreciate the firm's privacy focus, but some complain of censorship, DuckDuckGo staunchly denies these claims.
So, how does it make money? DuckDuckGo shows ads but does not engage in targeted advertising. DuckDuckGo also offers Privacy Pro, a subscription for $10 per month, or $100 per year, that offers access to a VPN, online personal information removal services, and identity theft restoration.
Who it's for: If you want your search engine queries to remain private, DuckDuckGo is the best option.
Furthermore, the DuckDuckGo browser has been designed to be user-friendly, although I consider the overall look to be somewhat bland. I still like how it helps new users import their existing bookmarks and passwords, sets itself as the default, and guides users through its security practices. So it could be a good option for beginners, too.
Who should look elsewhere: If you want a browser with a wide array of security tools for overall privacy, consider Brave or another of my recommendations.
DuckDuckGo features: Mobile and desktop private browser | Does not collect user data | AI experiments: DuckDuckGo AI Chat | No search engine query trackers | Data removal and identity restoration services | Google Play rating: 4.7 | App Store rating: 4.1
Pros
- Available across different operating systems
- Solid commitment to user privacy
- Email protection settings
- Bland browser design
When it comes to DuckDuckGo, user privacy comes first.
Why we like it: The company, which offers a privacy-focused search engine and browser, is a vocal supporter of consumer privacy rights and now handles millions of user search queries daily.
There is a growing appetite for privacy-focused alternatives to tech giants like Meta and Google. DuckDuckGo's Privacy Essentials extension for Chrome, Firefox, and Microsoft Edge is also popular. Its reputation is built on the idea that it does not collect user data but can provide the same search results as those that do.
DuckDuckGo was once only a search engine, but the developers then released a mobile-friendly browser app, followed by a desktop version. The organization's browser provides private search, website protection and blockers, web encryption, and more.
Also: 5 great Chrome browser alternatives that put your privacy first
DuckDuckGo is experimenting with AI-assisted technologies to improve its search experience, including anonymously accessing GPT models, known as DuckDuckGo AI Chat. Users appreciate the firm's privacy focus, but some complain of censorship, DuckDuckGo staunchly denies these claims.
So, how does it make money? DuckDuckGo shows ads but does not engage in targeted advertising. DuckDuckGo also offers Privacy Pro, a subscription for $10 per month, or $100 per year, that offers access to a VPN, online personal information removal services, and identity theft restoration.
Who it's for: If you want your search engine queries to remain private, DuckDuckGo is the best option.
Furthermore, the DuckDuckGo browser has been designed to be user-friendly, although I consider the overall look to be somewhat bland. I still like how it helps new users import their existing bookmarks and passwords, sets itself as the default, and guides users through its security practices. So it could be a good option for beginners, too.
Who should look elsewhere: If you want a browser with a wide array of security tools for overall privacy, consider Brave or another of my recommendations.
DuckDuckGo features: Mobile and desktop private browser | Does not collect user data | AI experiments: DuckDuckGo AI Chat | No search engine query trackers | Data removal and identity restoration services | Google Play rating: 4.7 | App Store rating: 4.1
Firefox is a reasonable choice for individual browser privacy across multiple devices if you're looking for a mainstream option.
Why we like it: One of Firefox's most important privacy features is enhanced tracking protection. Mozilla has borrowed Tor techniques to block browser fingerprinting, and Firefox's developers are constantly seeking to improve tracking-prevention features.
Also: How to protect yourself from phishing attacks in Chrome and Firefox
Firefox offers numerous options to customize the browser for enhanced privacy. It blocks social media trackers, cross-site tracking cookies, tracking in private windows, crypto miners, and fingerprinting scripts. There is also a "strict" mode that might break some sites when trackers are blocked, but you can allow enhanced tracking protection for trusted sites.
In April, Mozilla said it is working on Anonym Private Audiences, a system for advertisers and platforms to "work together using first-party data to create targeted audiences" without sharing user data. You can also try out new features through Firefox Labs.
Who it's for: Firefox's default privacy settings are strong, and its tracking protection is of great benefit, so this will suit anyone who wants solid privacy through a well-known browser.
Another option for Firefox fans is Firefox Focus, a privacy-focused browser for iOS and Android that blocks trackers and has a built-in ad-blocker. The company also offers a VPN for $5 per month with the option to connect up to five devices to over 500 servers in 30 countries.
You can also check out a range of browsers based on Firefox but with additional protection, such as Librewolf.
Who should look elsewhere: Users enjoy Firefox's approach to privacy, but note that it can be a resource hog. In my own testing, I find that Firefox is user-friendly and familiar, which means there isn't much of a learning curve to use it, but it can be a strain on PC resources. If you use an older PC, I'd opt for a less intensive browser.
Mozilla Firefox features: Enhanced tracking protection | Firefox Focus for mobile | Strict privacy standards | DNS queries sent to a secure resolver service | Focus on accessibility | Encrypted Client Hello | AI development | Google Play rating: 4.6 | App Store rating: 4.6
Pros
- Enhanced tracking prevention
- Focus on accessibility
- Trusted by millions of users
- VPN
- Strict tracking protection may break websites
- May require heavy PC resources
Firefox is a reasonable choice for individual browser privacy across multiple devices if you're looking for a mainstream option.
Why we like it: One of Firefox's most important privacy features is enhanced tracking protection. Mozilla has borrowed Tor techniques to block browser fingerprinting, and Firefox's developers are constantly seeking to improve tracking-prevention features.
Also: How to protect yourself from phishing attacks in Chrome and Firefox
Firefox offers numerous options to customize the browser for enhanced privacy. It blocks social media trackers, cross-site tracking cookies, tracking in private windows, crypto miners, and fingerprinting scripts. There is also a "strict" mode that might break some sites when trackers are blocked, but you can allow enhanced tracking protection for trusted sites.
In April, Mozilla said it is working on Anonym Private Audiences, a system for advertisers and platforms to "work together using first-party data to create targeted audiences" without sharing user data. You can also try out new features through Firefox Labs.
Who it's for: Firefox's default privacy settings are strong, and its tracking protection is of great benefit, so this will suit anyone who wants solid privacy through a well-known browser.
Another option for Firefox fans is Firefox Focus, a privacy-focused browser for iOS and Android that blocks trackers and has a built-in ad-blocker. The company also offers a VPN for $5 per month with the option to connect up to five devices to over 500 servers in 30 countries.
You can also check out a range of browsers based on Firefox but with additional protection, such as Librewolf.
Who should look elsewhere: Users enjoy Firefox's approach to privacy, but note that it can be a resource hog. In my own testing, I find that Firefox is user-friendly and familiar, which means there isn't much of a learning curve to use it, but it can be a strain on PC resources. If you use an older PC, I'd opt for a less intensive browser.
Mozilla Firefox features: Enhanced tracking protection | Firefox Focus for mobile | Strict privacy standards | DNS queries sent to a secure resolver service | Focus on accessibility | Encrypted Client Hello | AI development | Google Play rating: 4.6 | App Store rating: 4.6
Another excellent choice for improving your privacy on the web is the Tor browser, a nonprofit project focused on anonymizing users online.
Why we like it: Its proprietary web browser disguises your internet protocol (IP) address and activity by relaying them through a network of servers, or nodes, run by volunteers. Bouncing your information around makes tracking exceptionally difficult, which is excellent if you don't want your internet service provider (ISP) or anyone else spying on your online activity.
Tor can be crucial for whistleblowers, journalists, activists, and people avoiding censorship. The Tor browser is also a popular choice for accessing the deep web -- a collection of websites that are inaccessible through traditional means such as search engines, in what is known as the "clear" web.
Also: I found the most private and secure way to browse the web - and it isn't incognito mode
The Tor browser's default search engine is DuckDuckGo, which will not log or store your search queries.
Tor's latest release contains a variety of bug fixes.
Who it's for: While it isn't a mainstream choice, the Tor browser is well-regarded by people who don't want to be tracked on the web. The Tor Project updates it frequently, and the browser is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android.
Who should look elsewhere: Users applaud the network's uncompromising approach to privacy but report slow speeds and occasional problems with CAPTCHAs. Due to the architecture of the Tor network, page loads in the Tor browser can be slower, and some sites might not work well.
There's also a learning curve to consider which may deter some users. Based on my own experience, I would recommend that interested users read up on the Tor Network and how it operates before downloading. Nonetheless, the Tor browser is one of the best privacy-preserving browsers available.
The Tor browser features: High levels of security and anonymization | Onion routing | DuckDuckGo integration | Access to websites outside the clear web | Blocks trackers and cookies | Fingerprint resistance | Google Play rating: 4.4 | App Store rating: 3.2
Pros
- High levels of anonymity
- DuckDuckGo integration
- Constant updates and improvements
- Learning curve to use
- Tends to be slow
Another excellent choice for improving your privacy on the web is the Tor browser, a nonprofit project focused on anonymizing users online.
Why we like it: Its proprietary web browser disguises your internet protocol (IP) address and activity by relaying them through a network of servers, or nodes, run by volunteers. Bouncing your information around makes tracking exceptionally difficult, which is excellent if you don't want your internet service provider (ISP) or anyone else spying on your online activity.
Tor can be crucial for whistleblowers, journalists, activists, and people avoiding censorship. The Tor browser is also a popular choice for accessing the deep web -- a collection of websites that are inaccessible through traditional means such as search engines, in what is known as the "clear" web.
Also: I found the most private and secure way to browse the web - and it isn't incognito mode
The Tor browser's default search engine is DuckDuckGo, which will not log or store your search queries.
Tor's latest release contains a variety of bug fixes.
Who it's for: While it isn't a mainstream choice, the Tor browser is well-regarded by people who don't want to be tracked on the web. The Tor Project updates it frequently, and the browser is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android.
Who should look elsewhere: Users applaud the network's uncompromising approach to privacy but report slow speeds and occasional problems with CAPTCHAs. Due to the architecture of the Tor network, page loads in the Tor browser can be slower, and some sites might not work well.
There's also a learning curve to consider which may deter some users. Based on my own experience, I would recommend that interested users read up on the Tor Network and how it operates before downloading. Nonetheless, the Tor browser is one of the best privacy-preserving browsers available.
The Tor browser features: High levels of security and anonymization | Onion routing | DuckDuckGo integration | Access to websites outside the clear web | Blocks trackers and cookies | Fingerprint resistance | Google Play rating: 4.4 | App Store rating: 3.2
The Mullvad Browser is marketed as the "Tor Browser without the Tor network."
Why we like it: The Tor Project team built the browser, but it's distributed by Mullvad, a respected Swedish virtual private network provider.
The browser emulates the Tor network by creating a similar fingerprint for all users, improving anonymity. Furthermore, the browser comes with a private mode out of the box, blocks tracking and cookies, and prevents online functions that extract information from visitors, such as device identifiers.
Mullvad was subject to a search warrant by the National Operations Department (NOA) of the Swedish Police in 2023. Mullvad staff said that since customer data did not exist, law enforcement left with nothing. To give you another example of Mullvad's approach to user data, the company is removing PayPal subscriptions "to store less data about our customers."
Despite the trouble it must have caused Mullvad at the time, I think it's beneficial that we've seen how the company handles user data requests from law enforcement.
The Mullvad Browser is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, or as a Firefox extension.
You can use the browser as a standalone product or combine it with Mullvad VPN. Users have generally given positive reviews, although you may find yourself signing up for the VPN for the best setup. It's also not the cheapest service on the market. In addition, the company has also recently partnered with Obscura VPN.
Also: 5 alternative browsers that might just replace Safari on your Mac
Who it's for: Anyone who wants to pair a privacy-first browser with a VPN. I've tested the VPN, and while it doesn't offer the largest server network around, speeds are good, and I trust it. The company operates a fixed access rate of €5, or about $5.71, per month.
Who should look elsewhere: Mullvad is relatively new, and so if you want a secure browser with a longer history, try out Brave.
Mullvad Browser features: Fingerprint masking approach | Removes online identifiers | Private mode enabled by default | Blocks trackers and cookies | Extension available | VPN available | Defense against AI-guided Traffic Analysis (DAITA) | Google Play rating: 3.7 | App Store rating: 4.1
Pros
- Heavyweight privacy developers
- Fingerprint, tracker blocks
- Tor-based privacy features
- New, so less thoroughly tested
The Mullvad Browser is marketed as the "Tor Browser without the Tor network."
Why we like it: The Tor Project team built the browser, but it's distributed by Mullvad, a respected Swedish virtual private network provider.
The browser emulates the Tor network by creating a similar fingerprint for all users, improving anonymity. Furthermore, the browser comes with a private mode out of the box, blocks tracking and cookies, and prevents online functions that extract information from visitors, such as device identifiers.
Mullvad was subject to a search warrant by the National Operations Department (NOA) of the Swedish Police in 2023. Mullvad staff said that since customer data did not exist, law enforcement left with nothing. To give you another example of Mullvad's approach to user data, the company is removing PayPal subscriptions "to store less data about our customers."
Despite the trouble it must have caused Mullvad at the time, I think it's beneficial that we've seen how the company handles user data requests from law enforcement.
The Mullvad Browser is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, or as a Firefox extension.
You can use the browser as a standalone product or combine it with Mullvad VPN. Users have generally given positive reviews, although you may find yourself signing up for the VPN for the best setup. It's also not the cheapest service on the market. In addition, the company has also recently partnered with Obscura VPN.
Also: 5 alternative browsers that might just replace Safari on your Mac
Who it's for: Anyone who wants to pair a privacy-first browser with a VPN. I've tested the VPN, and while it doesn't offer the largest server network around, speeds are good, and I trust it. The company operates a fixed access rate of €5, or about $5.71, per month.
Who should look elsewhere: Mullvad is relatively new, and so if you want a secure browser with a longer history, try out Brave.
Mullvad Browser features: Fingerprint masking approach | Removes online identifiers | Private mode enabled by default | Blocks trackers and cookies | Extension available | VPN available | Defense against AI-guided Traffic Analysis (DAITA) | Google Play rating: 3.7 | App Store rating: 4.1
What is the best browser for privacy?
Brave is my top pick for the best browser for privacy based on its approach to user privacy, ad-tracking prevention, the wide range of privacy settings on offer, usability, and speed. That said, since no browser is perfect, you should decide which option suits you best.
Best browser for privacy | Ad tracking prevention? | Mobile support? | Onion routing? |
Brave | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
DuckDuckGo | ✓ | ✓ | Available |
Mozilla Firefox | Available | ✓ | X |
Tor | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Mullvad Browser | ✓ | X | Via Tor |
Which is the right browser for privacy for you?
Choose this... | If you want... |
Brave | The best overall browser for privacy. Brave's default focus is on privacy and security, and the addition of optional Tor onion routing is a nice touch. Incognito browsing and off-the-record services are also available. |
DuckDuckGo | A search engine or browser that never stores or logs your search queries. The browser extends the original search engine functionality to mobile and desktop. Private search and web protection are available through the browser. |
Mozilla Firefox | A mainstream secure browser that focuses on tracking. Firefox's tracking prevention is multi-layered and will help prevent you from being profiled online. The FireFox Focus app is worth exploring as a privacy-first mobile browsing solution. |
Tor | A system based on the onion routing network. You can access deep web websites and remain relatively anonymous. While often slow, Tor provides a level of security suitable for whistleblowers and activists. |
Mullvad Browser | To use it with a virtual private network (VPN). Mullvad is a one-stop shop, meaning you don't need to download and install additional privacy-protecting extensions. The VPN doesn't have the largest server network, but it is reliable and fast. |
What is a secure browser for privacy and why do I need one?
A privacy-focused, secure browser automatically erases your browsing and search history and cookies. It may also limit web tracking and help hide your location.
Privacy-focused browsers may also promote virtual private network (VPN) usage and include features designed to bypass censorship blocks and keep you as anonymous as possible such as via access to onion routing and refusing to log site visits or web searches.
If you are concerned about your online privacy, you should install a privacy browser or, at the very least, use an extension made by a privacy browser maker in your current browser.
You should consider using a secure browser if you want to reduce the volume of data collected about you online, if you want to mask your activities, and if you do not want your search queries logged. Each browser offers different features, so research which one fits your needs.
Show moreFactors to consider when choosing a secure browser
Choosing the right browser might not seem like a huge deal, but if you want to protect your privacy at the first gate to the web, consider these factors when looking for a secure browser:
- Online identifiers: Check if the browser tracks your activities or website visits. This data can be used to create targeted advertising profiles and track you across different websites.
- Search queries: One of the most significant ways we are tracked online and have profiles compiled based on our interests is through our search engine queries. The most secure browsers do not log these records.
- Revenue: Browser developers, just like any other business, need to make money. One method is to sell user data, search queries, and other datasets. This impacts individual privacy unless there are opt-in and opt-out functions.
- Ad-blocking: Some privacy-enhancing browsers block ads by default, but this doesn't mean all websites will be clear of ads. If there is a service you access frequently, and you want ad blocking -- YouTube, for example -- it's worth checking to see if these ad-blockers are circumvented or work effectively on your favorite platforms.
- Audits: The best secure browsers will conduct frequent security audits and have consistent patch releases to fix vulnerabilities and bugs that could expose you.
- Transparency: The best secure browser developers adopt a transparent approach to user data collection and security.
- Speed vs. security: Some browsers route your traffic through several servers to reduce the likelihood of you being tracked. You may have to decide how much speed reduction you will accept.
- VPN: If you want to use a VPN, consider whether the browser works well with one, or if the browser already offers a built-in solution or supports extensions. Check out our recommendations for the best VPNs in 2025.
- Mobile support: Not every secure browser has a mobile app, which you should consider if you want to use just one browser across all your devices.
How did I choose these secure browsers for privacy?
While investigating the best secure browsers for privacy in 2025, I compared each of these browsers and extensions to determine what makes them different and which is best for a variety of use cases.
- Balance: It can be tricky for companies to balance user privacy and funding a business. However, many developers are willing to embrace user security over opportunities to generate more revenue. This mindset sets some browser developers apart.
- User experience: I reviewed customer feedback to ensure that most users find the browsers easy to install and use, and I prioritized options with a long track record of positive user feedback.
- Features: I want to see additional privacy-enhancing features, like onion routing and VPN support. I've chosen providers who offer more than standard web browsing experiences and give users extensive control over their browsing sessions.
- Targeted advertising: I prefer browsers that do not adopt this practice, as it can lead to shadow profiles being generated on their users' behalf and potentially uncontrolled user data sharing between third parties. At the very least, I want users to have a choice in these programs, such as through opt-out mechanisms.
- Tracking defense: At a minimum, I want privacy-based browsers to have a level of defense against user tracking and fingerprinting. Preferably, there will also be ad-blocking software working in the background.
- Platform support: I selected browsers offering a range of support for different operating systems and platforms.
- Mobile: I prefer secure browsers to have mobile apps for Android and iOS, as it's more convenient to use the same browser across your devices.
Latest news in the browser market
- LayerX has launched ExtensionPedia, a resource for you to check the security and potential risk of popular browser extensions.
- Meta and Yandex were reportedly caught de-anonymizing Android web browser identifiers, creating persistent identifiers that could then be sent to native apps.
- Google has patched a zero-day vulnerability impacting the security of the Chrome browser.
FAQs on secure browsers
Do I need a privacy browser?
If you are concerned about your online privacy, you should install a privacy browser or at least an extension. We have to take responsibility for our own privacy online these days. You can't rely on companies to do the job for you.
Also: 5 reasons why Zen is my new favorite browser (RIP, Opera)
A few basics: Download one of the privacy-first browsers listed above that doesn't log your queries and activities, install a VPN, and use messaging apps with end-to-end encryption.
Show moreDoes using a private browsing window hide my IP address?
Private browsing sessions do not tend to mask your internet protocol (IP) address, just like how an incognito window doesn't hide your IP address if you're using Chrome. These sessions simply don't store your browser history, the informa
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