Daily Browser Safety Checklist

Your Daily Security Routine

Security is not a one-time setup. These quick daily habits take just moments but provide strong, ongoing protection. Use this checklist to build automatic security awareness.

Before You Click

• Hover over links to see the real destination
• Check if the URL matches the site you expect
• Be suspicious of shortened links (bit.ly, tinyurl)
• Question unexpected emails, even from known senders
• If in doubt, navigate to the site directly

Before You Log In

• Verify the URL in the address bar is correct
• Check for the padlock icon (HTTPS)
• Notice if your password manager offers to autofill
• If the password manager does not recognize the site, stop
• Use 2FA codes only on sites you navigated to yourself

Before You Download

• Confirm the download source is official
• Check the file extension before opening
• Be suspicious of unexpected attachments
• Trust browser warnings about risky downloads
• Scan files with security software when unsure

Before You Pay

• Verify you are on the real merchant's website
• Look for HTTPS on checkout pages
• Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true
• Use credit cards for better fraud protection
• Never pay via gift cards or wire transfer

Regular Maintenance

Weekly

• Restart your browser to apply any pending updates
• Review any saved passwords your browser flagged as weak
• Check for operating system updates

Monthly

• Review installed browser extensions and remove unused ones
• Check your accounts for unfamiliar activity
• Update passwords for any accounts involved in known breaches
• Review app permissions on your phone

Quarterly

• Check haveibeenpwned.com for your email addresses
• Review recovery options for important accounts
• Verify 2FA is enabled on all critical accounts
• Test that backup codes still work

Red Flags to Watch For

• Messages creating urgency ("Act now or lose access")
• Requests for passwords or personal info via email
• Pop-ups with phone numbers to call
• Offers that seem too good to be true
• Unexpected attachments from any sender
• Websites that look slightly "off"

Quick Response Actions

If something seems wrong:

1. Stop what you are doing
2. Do not click, download, or enter information
3. Close the tab or browser if needed
4. Navigate to the real site directly to verify
5. Report the suspicious content

Printable Checklist

Keep these questions in mind:

• Did I expect this message or link?
• Is this URL really what it claims to be?
• Does my password manager recognize this site?
• Is this offer realistic?
• Am I being pressured to act fast?

If the answer to any question raises doubt, verify before proceeding.

Key Takeaways

• Build daily security habits that become automatic
• Verify before you click, log in, download, or pay
• Keep software updated
• Review accounts and extensions regularly
• When in doubt, stop and verify