What is a browser notification?
A browser notification is a notification that can be sent by web applications and websites to your browser. Browser notifications are also called push notifications. They can only be sent if you have subscribed to them, but once you’ve given permission, they will be sent even when you’re not looking at the particular website in question.
What are browser notifications for?
Browser notifications are clickable (or actionable) messages that are very visible by virtue of the fact that they just pop up on the screen in front of you. In other words, they get you to give some kind of response, whether that be to sign up to something, click on a link to look at a new product, or something else like that. What makes them so clever is that they can pop up whenever you are using your browser, getting you to respond straight away, unlike email notifications, which you only see when you check your emails.
How can browser notifications be a security risk?
The notification itself is just a link to a site. Provided that you never click or tap on the notification, then you won’t be at risk. If you do click on it however, you could be responding to fake or deceptive messages, or installing a malicious app. Browser (push) notifications can actually help hackers break into your accounts and steal your money, data or identity.
How do I stay safe from this risk?
You should minimise the number of websites that you allow to send you browser notifications. You can check which browser notifications you have allowed, and then turn off or block them if you choose, by going to Settings and then Notifications.
Stay alert and safe online!