How to Use Sogou Browser for Safe and Private Internet Surfing
Privacy and security are more important than ever in today’s digital age. Browsing the web leaves traces of your activity, and without proper safeguards, sensitive data can be exposed to various threats. Fortunately, the Sogou Browser offers a range of features designed to enhance privacy and provide a safe browsing experience. This article will guide you through the key privacy and security features of the Sogou Browser and how to use them effectively to ensure safe and private internet surfing.
Enabling Private Browsing Mode
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect your privacy while surfing the web is to use Private Browsing Mode. In this mode, your browsing history, cookies, search data, and cache are not stored. This prevents websites from tracking your activity and ensures that sensitive information is not saved on your device.
To activate Private Browsing Mode in the Sogou Browser:
Open Sogou Browser.
Click on the menu icon in the upper-right corner.
Select Private Browsing from the dropdown menu, or press Ctrl+Shift+N on your keyboard.
In Private Browsing Mode, you can browse without leaving traces, ensuring your activities remain private. This feature is especially useful if you’re browsing on a shared or public computer or want to prevent website tracking.
Blocking Third-Party Cookies
Cookies are small files that websites use to store information about your preferences and activity. While some cookies are necessary for websites to function properly, others—especially third-party cookies—are used to track your activity across different sites. This is a common method used by advertisers to build users’ profiles for targeted advertising.
To block third-party cookies in the Sogou Browser:
Click on the menu icon and go to Settings.
In the settings window, scroll down to the Privacy section.
Under Cookies, choose the option to Block third-party cookies.
Blocking third-party cookies helps prevent advertisers from tracking your browsing behaviour and protects your privacy. It’s a simple but powerful feature that maintains anonymity while browsing.
Enabling the Built-In Ad Blocker
Advertisements can be more than annoying—they can also compromise your privacy by tracking your activity. Many online ads are designed to collect data about your browsing habits and preferences. Fortunately, the Sogou Browser has a built-in ad blocker that prevents intrusive ads from appearing on websites.
To enable the ad blocker in the Sogou APP Browser:
Open the Sogou Browser and click on the menu icon.
Navigate to Settings and look for the Ad Blocker section.
Toggle the Ad Blocker to the on position.
Enabling the ad blocker ensures that ads are blocked by default, reducing the chances of being tracked by third-party advertisers. This also improves your browsing experience by making websites load faster and reducing distractions.
Activating the HTTPS Encryption
HTTPS (HyperText Transfer Protocol Secure) ensures that the data exchanged between your browser and websites is encrypted. This is particularly important when browsing websites that require sensitive information, such as online banking or shopping sites. HTTPS encryption prevents hackers from intercepting your data and helps protect your login credentials and financial details.
Sogou Browser automatically enables HTTPS encryption for websites that support it, providing an extra layer of security. However, if you’re unsure whether a website uses HTTPS, look for the padlock icon in the address bar. If the padlock is present, the connection is secure.
Managing Passwords with the Password Manager
For users who struggle with remembering passwords, the Sogou Browser includes a Password Manager feature that allows you to securely store and autofill your login credentials. While this feature can make logging into websites easier, it’s important to protect your passwords.
To enable and manage passwords in the Sogou Browser:
- Click on the menu icon and go to Settings.
- Scroll down to Passwords and Forms.
- Enable the Offer to save passwords option.
- You can view and manage saved passwords by selecting Manage passwords.
For added security, make sure that you use a strong master password for your device, as the password manager will store sensitive login information.
Using Sogou’s Anti-Phishing Protection
Phishing attacks are among the most common methods cybercriminals use to steal personal information, such as login credentials or financial details. Sogou Browser includes built-in anti-phishing protection that helps prevent you from visiting malicious websites that may attempt to steal your personal information.
To activate or adjust anti-phishing settings:
Open Settings from the browser menu.
Under Privacy, locate the Phishing Protection section.
Toggle on the option to block suspected phishing sites.
With anti-phishing protection enabled, the Sogou Browser will warn you if a website is suspected of being malicious, protecting you from potential scams and data theft.
Enabling Two-Factor Authentication for Sogou Account
If you use a Sogou account to sync your bookmarks, history, or other data, it’s essential to protect it with two-factor authentication (2FA). 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of identification—such as a one-time passcode sent to your mobile device—before granting access to your account.
To enable 2FA for your Sogou account:
Visit the Sogou account management page.
Navigate to the Security settings.
Follow the prompts to link your mobile phone and enable two-factor authentication.
With 2FA enabled, even if someone gains access to your Sogou account credentials, they cannot log in without the second verification code.
Regularly Clearing Browsing Data
To further protect your privacy, clearing your browsing data regularly is a good practice. Sogou Browser lets you delete your history, cache, cookies, and saved passwords with a few clicks. This prevents websites from retaining sensitive data about your activity.
To clear browsing data:
Click the menu icon and select Settings.
Scroll down to the Privacy section and click Clear browsing data.
Choose the types of data you want to delete and select Clear Data.
Regularly clearing browsing data will ensure that your personal information is not stored on your device, further protecting your privacy.
Secure Download Management
Downloading files from the internet can expose you to security risks, as malicious files may try to infect your device. Sogou Browser includes a secure download manager that helps protect you from downloading dangerous files. It warns you if a file is deemed potentially harmful and allows you to choose whether to proceed with the download.
To ensure a secure download experience, always download files from trusted sources and avoid opening suspicious files.
Keeping Your Browser Updated
Lastly, one of the most crucial aspects of staying safe and private online is keeping your browser up to date. Software updates often include important security patches that address newly discovered vulnerabilities. By regularly updating the Sogou Browser, you ensure that you’re protected from the latest security threats.
To check for updates:
Open Settings and scroll to About Sogou Browser.
If an update is available, you will be prompted to download and install it.
Enabling automatic updates ensures that your browser always runs the latest version with the latest security fixes.
Sogou Browser offers various features
Sogou Browser offers various features to help you maintain a safe and private browsing experience. From private browsing mode and ad-blocking to phishing protection and password management, these features work together to protect your data and ensure your online activities remain secure.
Enabling these privacy and security tools allows you to surf the web confidently, knowing that your personal information is protected from unauthorized access and potential threats. Whether you’re browsing for leisure, shopping online, or handling sensitive data, the Sogou Browser provides a safe environment for internet surfing.
