Let’s face it: we practically live online these days. Whether you’re Googling late-night taco spots, scrolling through TikTok for “just five more minutes,” or paying bills while half-watching a Netflix show—our lives are plugged into the web. And with that constant connection comes a real need to be smart about how we browse.
But what does being smart online actually look like? Which of the following is a best practice when browsing the internet? Should you just slap on a VPN and call it a day? Or is it more about strong passwords, avoiding sketchy websites, and just using common sense?
Well, let’s dig in. Because staying safe and savvy online isn’t about memorizing a textbook—it’s about building simple habits that become second nature. Trust me, your future self (and your digital footprint) will thank you.
1) Don’t Click That… Seriously, Don’t
Ever get one of those pop-ups that says your computer is infected, and all you have to do is click “Scan Now”? Or maybe an email that looks almost legit—except your bank’s name is misspelled?
I had a friend—we’ll call him Mike—who once clicked a “Congratulations! You’ve won a new iPhone!” banner. He didn’t win a phone. He did, however, win a nasty browser hijacker that took over his screen with fake antivirus alerts and creepy ads.
Lesson? If it looks fishy, smells fishy, and makes your spider-sense tingle… don’t click it. Even if your curiosity is screaming at you.
2) Keep Your Browser and Devices Updated
I get it. Updates are annoying. The little pop-up nags you for the fifth time today and you’re just trying to finish watching cat videos in peace.
But those updates? They often patch serious security holes. Think of it like locking your front door—except your “house” is your device, and instead of burglars, you’ve got hackers looking to sneak in.
So the next time Chrome wants to update, just let it do its thing. Grab a coffee while it reloads. You’ll survive five minutes offline. I promise.
3) Use Strong, Unique Passwords (Yes, Plural)
Let’s be honest for a second: are you still using the same password for everything?
I’ve been there. It feels easier. But here’s the problem—if one site gets hacked, all your accounts are suddenly vulnerable. It’s like using the same key for your house, car, and office. Lose it once, and you’re in deep trouble.
A good practice? Use a password manager. They generate strong passwords and remember them for you. Apps like LastPass, Bitwarden, or 1Password are super handy. They’re kind of like your digital safe—only you hold the master key.
4) Be Mindful of Public Wi-Fi (It’s Not as Friendly as It Seems)
You know those cozy little cafés with free Wi-Fi? Yeah, they’re not always your friends.
Public Wi-Fi is a hotspot (pun intended) for cyber snooping. Someone sitting just a few tables away can intercept your data if you’re not careful. That means your login info, emails, even your online shopping cart could be spied on.
If you must use public Wi-Fi, at least use a VPN. It encrypts your traffic so others can’t see what you’re doing. And never, ever, log into banking apps or anything sensitive while connected to Starbucks Wi-Fi. Just don’t.
5) Think Before You Share
We’ve all seen it—a Facebook post asking, “What was your first car?” or “What’s your mother’s maiden name?” Seems innocent, right? It’s not.
These posts often mimic security questions. Hackers can use that info to reset your passwords or dig deeper into your identity.
So before you post that throwback selfie with #FirstCar, ask yourself: Would I be cool with a stranger on the street knowing this?
Better yet, just skip it. Your nostalgia can wait.
6) Check That URL (One Letter Can Be a Trap)
Have you ever typed in a website and noticed it looks almost right—but something’s off?
Hackers love setting up fake websites that mimic real ones. It’s called “phishing,” and it’s sneaky. Instead of “paypal.com,” it might be “paypa1.com.” Blink and you’ll miss the difference. But your login info? Gone in seconds.
Always double-check the URL—especially when clicking links in emails or messages. And when in doubt, just type the site directly into the browser yourself.
7) Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Everywhere You Can
Yes, it’s a little extra step. But it adds a lot of security.
With 2FA, even if someone knows your password, they still can’t log in without a second piece of proof—like a code sent to your phone. It’s kind of like having a second lock on your digital door.
Most major platforms offer it now: Gmail, Facebook, Instagram, Amazon—you name it. Turn it on. It’s worth the few extra seconds.
8) Clear Out Cookies and Cache Occasionally
This one feels a bit “techy,” but hear me out.
Websites use cookies to track your activity and remember your preferences. That’s why you see ads for shoes right after you browse a shoe site. Handy, but also kind of creepy, right?
Clearing your cookies and cache every once in a while can help protect your privacy and even speed up your browser. Most browsers let you do this in the settings—it’s just a couple of clicks.
9) Avoid Downloading Random Stuff
Free PDF converters. Sketchy video players. That mysterious “Speed Booster” app.
Unless it’s from a reputable source, downloading random software is like inviting a stranger into your home and handing them the remote. Best-case scenario? It’s junk. Worst-case? It’s malware.
Stick to official app stores or well-known software sites. And always do a quick Google search before installing something new. Better safe than… well, rebooting your PC in Safe Mode while crying.
10) Don’t Overshare on Social Media
It’s tempting to post every detail of your vacation, your new apartment, or that “I just got paid!” screenshot. But think twice.
If everyone knows you’re in Hawaii for a week, your empty home becomes a target. And sharing too many personal details can lead to identity theft or even social engineering scams.
Enjoy the moment—maybe post about it after you’re back home.
So, Which of the Following Is a Best Practice?
Honestly? All of the above.
There’s no magic bullet. No single tip that makes you 100% safe online. But when you combine a few smart habits—avoiding suspicious links, updating your software, using strong passwords, enabling 2FA—you build a strong defense.
Think of it like layers of armor. One piece isn’t enough. But together? You’re much, much harder to hack.
Also read: How to Block Unknown Calls on iPhone
Final Thoughts
The internet is an amazing place. It’s where we work, play, connect, shop, learn, and sometimes get a little too obsessed with Reddit threads about UFOs. But just like in real life, staying safe online means being aware and making thoughtful choices.
You don’t need to be a cybersecurity expert to protect yourself. You just need to build a few habits and trust your gut.
So the next time you ask, “Which of the following is a best practice when browsing the internet?”—remember: it’s not just one thing. It’s the little things, done consistently, that make all the difference.
Stay sharp out there. And hey—maybe don’t click that “YOU WON!” pop-up next time, yeah?
