Web browsers compete to take on malware
Friday, September 18, 2009
As the widespread threat of malware continues to plague internet users, companies like Microsoft, Apple and Google are working to create better web browsers for more secure web surfing.
The latest versions of web browsers including Internet Explorer 8, Mozilla Firefox 3.5 and Google Chrome 3 all support web filtering and antivirus add-on products to enhance online security against phishing websites and other malware threats.
Mozilla, the maker of the open source Firefox browser, has taken an increasing share of the browser market against Microsoft's IE. Firefox is popular for its large supply of add-ons that allow developers to add widgets and applications to the browser.
But as web browsers compete for marketshare among users, speed and security are not the only ways the browsers compete for loyalty.
The major browsers now feature enhanced private browsing modes that allow users to visit websites without the browser recording it in history.
However, private browsing mode does not prevent websites, internet service providers or employers from recording websites visited. Downloaded files and bookmarks are still recorded.
Internet surfers should always be cautious about what websites they visit to protect themselves from malware and identity theft.
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