Browser Hygiene for Crypto Users

For most crypto users, the browser is where the risk lives. Wallet extensions run in it, dApps load in it and phishing sites appear in it. A browser full of random extensions, saved passwords for dozens of sites and years of cookies creates many opportunities for something to go wrong. Good browser hygiene reduces those opportunities without making crypto use painful.

Use a dedicated browser profile

Create a separate browser profile, or a separate browser, just for crypto:

• Install only your wallet extension and essential security tools
• Save bookmarks for the exchanges, dApps and explorers you use
• Avoid general browsing, social media and email in this profile
• Never install unknown extensions here

Separation limits the damage if your everyday browsing picks up a malicious extension or cookie theft.

Be strict with extensions

Browser extensions can read and change web pages, including the dApps you use. Malicious or compromised extensions have stolen seed phrases, swapped addresses and injected fake prompts.

Check	Why
Install only from official stores	Reduces fake extension risk
Verify the publisher	Copycat extensions use similar names
Review permissions	Avoid extensions that can read all sites unless needed
Keep the number small	Fewer extensions, fewer risks
Remove unused extensions	Old extensions may be sold to new owners

Wallet extensions deserve particular care. Install them only through links on the wallet's official website.

Use bookmarks, not search

Search ads and poisoned results regularly lead to fake crypto sites. Bookmark every site you use, and reach it through the bookmark every time. When you need a new site, find the official link from the project's verified sources, then bookmark it.

Keep everything updated

Browsers patch security issues frequently. Enable automatic updates for the browser, the operating system and wallet extensions. Restart the browser when updates are waiting, since many patches only apply after a restart.

Be careful with downloads

Many attacks against crypto users start with a download:

1. Fake job offers with attached "assignments" or documents
2. Game builds or beta apps sent by strangers
3. Browser extensions distributed outside official stores
4. Cracked software from untrusted sites
5. Fake meeting apps sent before a call

Avoid running downloaded files from people you do not know. Use well-known meeting platforms in the browser rather than installing software sent through messages.

Manage passwords and autofill

Use a password manager instead of the browser's built-in storage for sensitive accounts. Good password managers autofill only on the exact saved domain, which also warns you about lookalike phishing domains. Never store seed phrases in a password manager or browser notes.

Clear what you do not need

Periodically clear cookies and site data in your crypto profile, remove old site connections from your wallet and review connected dApps. Old connections and stale sessions add unnecessary exposure.

Watch for signs of compromise

Signs that a browser may be compromised include:

• Unexpected pop-ups or new tabs
• Wallet prompts appearing without your action
• Search results or homepages changing on their own
• Addresses changing after you paste them

If you notice these, stop using that profile for crypto, move funds from a clean device if necessary and investigate.

Confirm official links

Clean browsers still depend on reaching the right site. Before bookmarking a new app, compare its link across the project's website, verified social accounts and independent profiles such as a Proud Globe pin. Consistent links across several sources are a good sign you have found the real one.