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How to change your default browser on iphone and ipad.

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Safari is a great web browser, but there's a reason why Google Chrome has the largest market share . Thankfully, as long as you're running iOS 14 , iPadOS 14 , or higher, you can set any third-party browser as the default on your iPhone or iPad.

First, open the "Settings" app. If you've lost it in a sea of icons, use Apple's built-in  Spotlight Search  to find the application.

In the Settings menu, locate the section for the browser you'd like to set as your default. For example, navigate to Settings > Chrome to set Google Chrome as your default web browser.

If the third-party browser has been updated to support Apple's default browser switching feature, you will find a "Default Browser App" option in its settings. Tap it.

Next, you'll see a list of every web browser app installed on your device that supports the default browser feature. Tap the name of the browser you'd like to use as your default.

After that, tap the "Back" button once and exit "Settings." From now on, whenever you tap a web address link, it will open in the browser app you chose.

Note that, at the time of writing, rebooting your iPhone or iPad will reset the default setting . It's not clear yet if this was designed to reset or it's a bug.

Related: How to Change Your Default Email App on iPhone and iPad

Also, if you prefer to use a third-party email client, you can change your default email app on iPhone or iPad.

• iPhone & iPad

How to Change the Default Web Browser on Your iPhone

What to know.

• You can easily change your default browser on iPhone in the Settings app.
• Simply tap the browser (such as Firefox or Chrome), and then select the Default Browser option.
• Select whichever browser you want to use as the default option.

On Apple devices, Safari is the default browser. However, many people prefer to use other browsers instead of Safari. It's frustrating to have to constantly manually switch browsers when opening links on your iPhone, but you can change the default web browser on your iPhone to your preferred one. This article will show you how to set your default browser so that your preferred browser opens when you tap on a link. This is especially helpful if you use a different browser on your MacBook than you do on your iPhone, or if you just find a different browser easier to use.

• Change the Default Browser on iPhone

How to Change the Default Browser on iPhone

Interested in changing the default browser on your iPhone? A default browser can make things much easier, so you don't have to remember what features the browser you're using has, for example, searching for that pesky back button on your iPhone . If you’re wondering how to make Google Chrome the default browser on your iPhone or if you just don’t like using Safari as your default browser, follow this step-by-step guide on how to change the default browser.

And you're done! Now that you know how to change your default browser on your iPhone, you can more easily open links in your preferred web browser, whether it's Safari, Chrome, Firefox, or another browser. Are you having trouble deciding which browser is best? Read this Safari vs. Chrome article to see the pros and cons of each one. And for more advice on customizing your iPhone, be sure to sign up for our free Tip of the Day newsletter.

• How do I get to my browser settings on my iPhone? If you want to change Safari's settings, you'll have to go into the Settings app, then tap Safari. If you want to change another browser's settings, just find the browser in the app list at the bottom of the Settings app. Most browsers also have more in-depth options within the app itself.
• How to make Safari the default browser again? You can follow the same steps above and simply select Safari instead. Alternatively, if you install the browser app that is set as default, your iPhone will automatically switch back to Safari.

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How to change the default browser in iOS 14

Maybe Safari isn't your preferred mobile browser of choice and you'd rather use a different one. As it turns out, you can change your default browser on iOS 14 in just a few quick steps. And, if it turns out you don't want to try your new browser, you can switch back to Safari just as easily.

• Open Settings
• Scroll down and tap on the browser you wish to use (eg: Chrome)
• Tap on Default Browser
• Tap on the browser you wish to use (eg: Chrome)

And that's it! If you ever wish to switch back to Safari, you can follow the steps below.

How to set Safari as the default browser in iOS 14

• Scroll down and tap on Safari
• Tap on Safari

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iOS 14 allows you to change the default web browser on an iPhone to your favorite browser's app — here's how to do it

• You can change the default web browser on an iPhone running iOS 14, if you want to use a browser other than Safari, such as Google Chrome.
• Once you've set your default browser, links you click will open in that browser's app.
• If you've tried to set your default browser before and it kept reversing, make sure your software is up to date.

Clicking on a link only to have it open in a browser you never use is one of those small annoyances iPhone users have had to just live with. But with iOS 14 , Apple built in an easy way to change your default browser. 

With your preferred web browser set as the default, you won't have to worry about links from texts or emails opening in the wrong one.

Be aware — Apple released software update 14.0.1 to fix a bug that undid this setting, so make sure you have the latest software installed.

How to change the default browser on an iPhone running iOS 14

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.

2. Scroll down to find your favorite browser and tap it. It will likely be fairly far down the list, in the section right below "TV Provider."

3. Tap the "Default Browser App" option.

4. A list of any browsers you've installed other than Safari will appear. Tap your preferred browser. A check mark should appear next to it.

Now, any link you click will open in your preferred browser.

Related coverage from  Tech Reference :

How to make google chrome the default browser on your android phone in 5 simple steps, how to change your default web browser on windows 10, where you can install and switch between different browsers, how to update the safari browser on your mac computer by installing the latest version of macos, how to change your default browser on mac, through the system preferences menu or the new browser's settings, how to clear the cache on a safari browser to make it run more efficiently, watch: i've used the iphone for 10 years and these are my favorite tips and tricks.

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How to Change the Default Web Browser on iPhone and iPad

When Apple released iOS 14 and iPadOS 14, it made a change that enables third-party browsers to be used as default apps, meaning users who don't get on with Apple's native Safari browser can choose an alternative and it will be opened automatically whenever the system requires it.

• Launch the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad .
• Scroll down to the third-party apps list and tap the browser you wish to use (e.g. DuckDuckGo).
• Tap Default Browser App .
• Tap the browser that you wish to make the default.

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How to set a default browser on iOS

Apple supplies its own Safari web browser with every iPhone, but you don’t have to use it to surf the web. There are plenty of third party alternatives on the App Store, and now it’s possible to make such a browser your default browser on iOS.

While Apple has long allowed you to download an alternative web browser for your iPhone, it’s only with iOS 14 in 2020 that you could make one of those your default web browser.

This means that any time you hit a link in an email or on a document, it’s this third party web browser that will open rather than Safari. Here’s how to set a default browser on iOS.

What you’ll need: 

We used the iPhone 13 Pro , but these methods will work on any iPhone

The Short Version 

Download your preferred browser, find your browser in settings.

• Set default browser

Set your default browser

Troubleshooting

Follow the above steps, but select Safari when you reach Step 3.

If you delete your new preferred web browser at any point, the default selection will return to Safari. The opposite is true if you delete Safari.

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How to change the default web browser on iPhone or iPad

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When you set up a new iPhone or iPad, you may notice that Safari is the default web browser. And while many users are fine with that, some others may prefer having a different default. Fortunately, with iOS and iPadOS 14, Apple started allowing users to change the default web browser. So, for example, if you're now running iOS 17 on an iPhone 15 Pro Max , you can change the web browser that the system defaults to when you click a link.

What's a default web browser?

As mentioned above, a default web browser is an app that iOS or iPadOS automatically directs to when you hit a link on your iDevice. Before OS version 14, users would have to copy the link and paste it into a third-party web browser if they were unsatisfied with Safari. So, now, after changing the default web browser, the OS will automatically launch and load the URL in the chosen app.

How to change the default web browser on iOS or iPadOS

To change the default web browser on an iPhone or iPad running OS version 14 or later:

• Go to the App Store and click on the Search tab in the bottom right corner.
• Tap the Search field on top and search for web browser .
• View the list of results and choose the one that appeals to you the most.
• Download it and wait for it to install on your iPhone or iPad.
• Click on Default Browser App .
• Choose the app you just installed.
• Now, whenever you click a link, it'll automatically load in the newly set default web browser.

Changing the default web browser can save you a lot of time

Choosing a default web browser spares you from needing to copy and paste a certain link in the browser of your choice. This way, you just click on a certain link, and it launches the browser you prefer instead of defaulting to Safari. However, keep in mind that third-party iOS web browsers utilize Apple's WebKit engine, so they're essentially Safari with the developers' additional layers and features.

iOS 17: How to Set a Default Browser Other Than Safari

The iOS 17 update makes it easier for users to change their default browser. Apple is seemingly encouraging users to try other browsers. Although this change is currently exclusive to those from EU countries, it could become a permanent feature once newer public iOS versions are available.

How to Set a Default Browser Other Than Safari in iOS 17

Time needed:  2 minutes

Apple will automatically show a choice screen the first time you open Safari after upgrading to iOS 17. The pop-up displays the most popular browsers in your region. Here’s how to change your default browser engine through it:

In an email to the Apple Developer Program members, Apple shared which web browsers it will display to EU users. The list included:

• Aloha Browser
• Brave Browser
• Microsoft Edge
• Mozilla Firefox
• Onion Browser
• Opera Touch
• Private Browser Deluxe
• Vivaldi Browser
• You.com AI Search Assistant

Apple’s letting other web browser engines in as well. So browsers like Chrome won’t be stuck using just the WebKit engine.

Can We Change the Default Browser in Other iOS Versions?

I want to clarify that iPhone users have been able to change their default browser settings since iOS 14 launched in 2020 .

Apple made this change in compliance with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) requirements in the European Union (EU). Users outside its regions won’t see this pop-up yet. But don’t fret too much because nothing changed in terms of functionality—it’s merely a mandatory pop-up for fair trade compliance. You can still explore the best alternatives to Safari .

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How To : Change Your Default Browser in iOS 14 from Safari to Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Another App

For the longest time, we were simply stuck with Safari on the iPhone. Sure, you could install a third-party browser, but Safari was always the default, so tapping on links would always open Apple's app. Times have changed, however, and now you can set third-party browsers like Chrome , Firefox , and Edge as your iPhone's default choice.

"But I don't see a way to set Chrome as my default browser," you might say, and you're not the only one. First, you need to have an iPhone running iOS 14 , so update your system if you haven't already. However, there was a bug in iOS 14.0 that would reset your chosen default browser back to Safari whenever your iPhone would reboot. Apple patched the issue in iOS 14.0.1 , so really you'll want to update to iOS 14.0.1 or later so that it works smoothly.

Compatible Third-Party Browsers

After updating to iOS 14.0.1 or later, you need a compatible browser. So far, these are the browsers that work with iOS 14's default browser setting. We'll update the list if any others pop up.

• Brave Private Web Browser VPN
• Cake Web Browser
• DuckDuckGo Privacy Browser
• Firefox Focus: Privacy browser
• Firefox: Private, Safe Browser
• Ghostery Privacy Browser
• Google Chrome
• Microsoft Edge
• Opera Touch web browser
• Smooz Browser
• Yandex Browser

Changing the Default Browser in iOS 14

With any of those apps installed, open Settings, but don't go to "Safari." You won't find any options there. At least, not yet. Instead, scroll down until you find the browser that you want to be the new primary browser on your iPhone. Tap it, then select "Default Browser App." Here, you can choose from any of the supported browsers on your device, not just the one you opened the settings for.

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Activating the New Default Browser in Other Apps

The next time you tap on a link, iOS will open it in your chosen browser, not Safari. The first time you do it, however, you will receive a pop-up from iOS saying that the app you're currently in wants to open your third-party browser. Just tap "Open," and you'll be set. Tapping on links from now on in that app should skip the "Open" pop-up, making it a seamless experience.

The only caveat is with other third-party apps that have their own in-app browser settings. For example, my Apollo for Reddit app was set to use an in-app Safari browser before updating to iOS 14. After the update, and after I changed my default browser to DuckDuckGo, Apollo still remembers my in-app preference.

Switching Back to Safari

To switch back to Safari, you don't need to go to a third-party app's settings. Instead, go to "Safari" in the Settings app, choose "Default Mail App," then pick "Safari." When Safari is the default on your system, this menu item will not appear in Safari's settings — only in the settings for third-party browsers. This is, no doubt, Apple's way of silently discouraging you from moving away from its own app.

Just updated your iPhone? You'll find new features for Podcasts, News, Books, and TV, as well as important security improvements and fresh wallpapers. Find out what's new and changed on your iPhone with the iOS 17.5 update.

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How To Make Safari Your Default Browser on iPhone

Are you looking for a fast and secure browser that’s easy to use? Then Safari is perfect for you! Safari is the default browser on Apple devices, but it can easily be set as your preferred browser on Windows and Android too. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to make Safari your default browser and take advantage of all its great features.

Safari is known for its speed, security, and user-friendly design. It’s powered by WebKit, an open-source web engine that helps make web pages load faster and look better. Safari also includes built-in privacy features like Intelligent Tracking Protection, which helps keep your browsing private.

If you’ve already been using another web browser like Chrome or Firefox, the process of making Safari your default browser is simple. First, go to Settings and scroll down until you find the browser app or the email app. Tap the app, then tap Default Browser App or Default Mail App. Select Safari as your preferred option and a checkmark will appear to confirm it’s now the default.

If you’re moving from a different browser to Safari, such as Chrome or Firefox, the process is just as easy—simply select File > Import From > Google Chrome (or Firefox) in the menu bar. You can then choose which data you want to import—bookmarks, history, or both—and click on ‘Import’. Your data will be automatically transferred over so you don’t have to manually transfer any information yourself.

By making Safari your default browser, you can take advantage of all its great features like faster page loading times, enhanced security protection, and an improved user experience overall. So if you’re looking for a fast and secure browsing experience that’s easy to use – give Safari a try!

Setting Safari as the Default Browser on iPhone

To set Safari as your default browser on an iPhone, go to Settings > General > Default Browser App. From there, select Safari as the default browser. A checkmark will appear to confirm that it’s the default. You can also tap Set Automatically if you’d like Safari to be the default whenever you open a link or website from an app like Mail or Messages.

Switching from Chrome to Safari

Switching from Chrome to Safari is easy! First, open Safari, then click on the menu bar at the top of your screen and select “File” > “Import From” > “Google Chrome.” You can also click on “Bookmarks HTML File” if you’re moving from a different browser. Choose whether to import your bookmarks, history, or both, then click on “Import.” All of your data will be transferred over to Safari in no time!

Using Safari Instead of Google on iPhone

To use Safari instead of Google on iPhone, you need to change the search engine settings in the browser. To do this, open the Settings app and select Safari > Search Engine. Here, you can choose from a variety of different search engines like Google, Yahoo!, Bing, DuckDuckGo, and Ecosia. Once you have selected the desired search engine, your searches will be performed using that engine instead of Google.

Restoring Safari as the Default Browser on an iPhone

If you would like to switch from Google to Safari as the default search engine on your iPhone, you can easily do so. First, open your Settings app and scroll down until you find the Safari option. Once there, select the ‘Search Engine’ option and choose Safari from the list of available search engines. Finally, tap ‘Done’ in the upper-right corner of the screen to save your changes. Now when you use Safari, your searches will be powered by Apple’s own search engine.

Changing Safari’s Default Search Engine from Google to Open Links

In order to get Safari to open links instead of Google, you will need to change your default browser on your device. On an iPhone or iPad, open the Settings App and select Safari. Under the General tab, tap Default Browser App and select Safari as your default browser. This will make all links open in Safari instead of Google. On a Mac, open the System Preferences and select General. Under the Default web browser drop-down menu, choose Safari as your default browser. This will make all links open in Safari instead of Google.

Switching Back to the Original Safari

To switch back to the original Safari design on your iPhone, open the Settings app and select Safari from the list. Then, under the Tabs heading, tap the option to switch between tabs on top or bottom. When you choose tabs on top, you’ll be using the original Safari design.

Changing the Default Browser Permanently

To permanently change your default browser, you need to first select the Start button, then type ‘Default apps’ in the search box. From the search results, select ‘Default apps’. Under Web browser, select the browser currently listed and then choose Microsoft Edge or another browser. Once you have selected your desired browser, it will become your default browser and any links you open from applications will automatically open in this browser.

Changing the Default Browser

Changing your default browser is a straightforward process. Here’s how you can do it: 1. Open the Settings app on your device. 2. Look for “Apps” or “Applications” and tap on them. 3. Under “General”, tap on “Default apps”. 4. Tap on the web browser that you want to set as the default option; in this case, Chrome, and select it as the default app. 5. You should now be able to open links directly in Chrome without having to manually choose it each time you click a link in an email or on a website.

Safari is the default web browser for Mac and iOS devices, offering a secure and fast experience to its users. It offers a range of features such as private browsing, a smart search bar, and an optimized design for convenient navigation. It also has an easy-to-use import feature so you can easily transfer bookmarks and history from other browsers such as Chrome. With its enhanced security measures and efficient performance, Safari is an excellent choice for browsing the web on Mac or iOS devices.

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Change the default web browser or email app on your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch

With iOS 14 and iPadOS 14 and later, you can change which app will open when you click a website link or an email address, as long as the app supports it.

Before you begin

Make sure you have iOS 14 or iPadOS 14 or later, and you have the app installed on your device properly.

Make sure the web browser app or email app supports this feature. If you're not sure, contact the app developer .

How to change your default web browser or email app

Go to Settings and scroll down until you find the browser app or email app.

Tap the app, then tap Default Browser App or Default Mail App.

Select a web browser or email app to set it as the default. A tick will appear to confirm it's the default.

If you can't see the option to set a web browser or email app as your default, the developer may not support it. Contact the app developer to learn more .

If you delete your default web browser app, your device will set Safari as the default browser app.

In countries or regions of the European Union on iOS 17.4 or later: after you’ve chosen a default browser from the web browser choice screen, if you want to change that setting, follow the steps to change your default browser .

If you delete your default email app, your device will set the Mail app as the default. If you delete the Mail app, your device will set one of your other email apps as the default. To use the Mail app again, you'll need to reinstall it on your device.

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Need more help? Save time by starting your support request online and we'll connect you to an expert.

How to Change the Default Browser on iPhone to Chrome or Back to Safari

When you tap on a website link on your iPhone or iPad, the site will open in whichever browser you have set as default. The default default browser is, of course, Safari. You may prefer Chrome, Firefox or another browser.

If you don’t like Safari or you have previously changed your default browser and now want to change it back to Safari, it is pretty simple to change it. Once you choose a new default browser, whenever you tap on a weblink in Messages, Mail or another app, the link will open in your default browser. Note some apps will open a link in the app’s own browser(like) window .

In this article, we’ll tell you how to change the default browser on your iPhone or iPad. The choice of default browser will only affect opening website links from other apps. You can always open and use any of your browser apps, no matter which browser app is the default.

How to change the default browser to Chrome (or another browser)

If your iPhone’s default browser is Safari (or anything other than what you want it to be), you can easily change it to Chrome (or your browser of choice).

• If you haven’t already, download Chrome from the App Store .
• Open Settings on your iPhone.
• Scroll down and find Chrome (or your preferred browser) in the list of apps, then tap on it.
• Tap on Default Browser App .
• Tap on Chrome to select it.

How to change the default browser back to Safari

If you have changed your default browser to something other than Safari, then anytime you tap on a weblink, it will open in that browser. To go back to using Safari, you can reset Safari as your default browser on your iPhone.

• Scroll down and find Safari in the list of apps and tap on it.
• Tap on Safari to select it.

Related articles

• How To Change Your Default Browser in macOS
• How to Change your Default Search Engine on iPhone
• How To Change Default Search Engine in Safari (iOS and macOS)
• How to Delete All Google Search History on iPhone, iPad or Mac
• Safari kCFErrorDomainCFNetwork Error, Blank Page Fix

Dr. Stacey Butler is a tech writer at macReports covering news, how-tos, and user guides. She is a longtime Mac and iPhone user and holds a Ph.D. from the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana. She is a former faculty member and a math teacher. Here is her LinkedIn profile , Google Scholar profile and her ResearchGate profile . Email Stacey Butler .

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How To Change Default Browser On iPhone

• How-To Guides
• Tech Setup & Troubleshooting

Introduction

When it comes to browsing the web on your iPhone, you may have a preferred browser that you use regularly. But what if you want to change the default browser on your iPhone? Whether it’s to try out a new browser or personalize your browsing experience, changing the default browser can give you more control over how you explore the internet on your device.

By default, Safari is the pre-installed browser on iPhones, but Apple allows you to change the default browser to one of your choice. This means that when you open links from emails, messages, or other apps, they will automatically open in your preferred browser instead of Safari.

In this article, we will explore various methods to change the default browser on your iPhone. Whether you want to switch to a different browser app or prefer a specific browser feature, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and discover how you can make the switch to a new default browser on your iPhone.

Method 1: Changing the Default Browser through Safari Settings

If you prefer to continue using Safari as your default browser but want to change certain settings, you can tweak Safari’s preferences to suit your needs. Here’s how you can change the default browser through Safari settings:

• Open the Settings app on your iPhone and scroll down until you find “Safari.”
• Tap on “Safari” to access its settings.
• Within the Safari settings, scroll down to the “General” section.
• Look for the option called “Default Browser App” and tap on it.
• A list of installed browsers on your iPhone will appear. Select the browser you want to set as the default.
• Exit the Settings app and open any link from an email, message, or other app. It should now open in your chosen default browser.

By following these steps, you can easily change the default browser through Safari settings and enjoy a seamless browsing experience with your preferred browser.

It’s important to note that changing the default browser through Safari settings only affects the links you open from within other apps. Safari will still remain the default browser for any links you open directly from the Safari app itself. If you want to use a different browser for all web browsing activities, you may need to explore other methods discussed in this article.

Method 2: Using the Settings App to Change the Default Browser

If you want to change the default browser for all your web browsing activities on your iPhone, you can use the Settings app. This method allows you to set a different browser as the default for opening all types of links. Here’s how you can do it:

• Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
• Scroll down and tap on the app name of the browser you want to set as the default.
• In the browser’s settings, look for an option that allows you to set it as the default browser, such as “Set as Default” or “Default Browser App.”
• Enable the option to set the browser as the default.
• Exit the Settings app and all links you open on your iPhone will now automatically launch in the newly set default browser.

By using the Settings app to change the default browser, you have more control over your browsing experience, ensuring that every link you open is directed to your preferred browser.

Keep in mind that if you have multiple browsers installed on your iPhone, you can follow the same process for each browser to set it as the default. This allows you to switch between different browsers based on your preferences and needs.

Method 3: Changing the Default Browser through the Browser Settings

If you have already installed a third-party browser that you want to set as your default, many browsers offer an option within their settings to change the default browser. By configuring the settings within the browser app itself, you can ensure that all links open in your preferred browser. Here’s how you can change the default browser through the browser settings:

• Open the browser app that you want to set as the default.
• Tap on the browser’s menu icon or navigate to the app’s settings.
• Look for an option in the browser’s settings that allows you to set it as the default browser, such as “Set as Default” or “Default Browser App.”
• Select the option to set the browser as the default.
• Exit the browser’s settings and any links you open on your iPhone will now automatically launch in the newly set default browser.

Changing the default browser through the browser settings allows you to customize your browsing experience within the specific browser app. It ensures that all links you open through the browser, whether received in messages, emails, or other apps, will open in your preferred browser.

Remember that each browser may have a slightly different process for changing the default setting within its app. Some browsers may not offer this option at all. In such cases, you can explore alternative methods mentioned in this article.

Method 4: Using the Browser App to Set it as Default

If you want to set a specific browser as the default using the browser app itself, you can do so by following these steps. This method is useful if you have recently installed a new browser and want to make it your default option for browsing on your iPhone:

• Launch the browser app that you want to set as the default.
• Navigate to the browser’s settings or preferences menu.
• Look for an option that allows you to change the default browser setting within the app.
• Select the option to set the current browser as the default one.
• Exit the app’s settings and go about your browsing activities.

By using this method, any links you open within the browser that you set as the default will automatically launch within that selected browser. This means that regardless of where the link originates from, it will open in your chosen browser without the need to perform any additional steps.

It’s important to note that not all browsers offer the functionality to set themselves as the default browser from within their app settings. In such cases, you can explore the other methods mentioned in this article to change your default browser on the iPhone.

Changing the default browser on your iPhone allows you to personalize your browsing experience and use the browser that suits your needs best. Whether you want to switch to a different browser app or simply customize the settings of the default browser, there are several methods you can follow.

In this article, we discussed four different methods to change the default browser on your iPhone. You can change the default browser through Safari settings, use the Settings app to set a new default browser, change the default browser through the settings within the browser app, or use the browser app itself to set it as the default. Each method gives you the freedom to choose the browser that you prefer for opening links from emails, messages, and other apps.

Remember that changing the default browser only affects the links you open from within other apps. If you open links directly from the Safari app, it will still use Safari as the default browser. However, by following the methods discussed in this article, you can ensure a consistent browsing experience across your iPhone.

Experiment with different browsers, explore their features, and find the one that best suits your browsing preferences. Whether you prioritize speed, privacy, or additional functionalities, changing the default browser allows you to have more control over your online activities.

So go ahead and give it a try! Change the default browser on your iPhone today and enjoy a browsing experience tailored to your liking.

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Choose a browser that protects your privacy. Try it now

A browser that’s actually private.

Safari includes state-of-the-art features that defend you against cross-site tracking, hides your IP address from known trackers, and more. Unlike Chrome, Safari truly helps protect your privacy.

Make Safari your default browser on Mac

On your Mac, choose Apple menu > System Settings > Desktop & Dock

Click the “Default web browser” drop-down menu and choose Safari. 1

Compared to Chrome

Safari protects your privacy..

Intelligent Tracking Prevention. Stop trackers.

Some browsers allow websites and data collection companies to watch you as you browse across multiple sites and create a profile of you. Intelligent Tracking Prevention uses on‑device intelligence to help prevent those trackers from learning who you are and what you’re interested in.

Private Browsing. Doesn’t remember your searches.

When you turn on Private Browsing, Safari won’t add the sites you visit to your history, remember your searches, or save any information from forms you fill out online. And advanced tracking and fingerprinting protections go even further to help prevent websites from tracking or identifying your device.

Privacy Report. A snapshot of cross‑site trackers.

Privacy Report. A snapshot of cross-site trackers.

Safari makes it simple to see how your privacy is protected on all the websites you visit. Click Privacy Report in the Safari menu for a snapshot of cross-site trackers currently prevented from profiling you on the website you’re visiting. While some browsers allow this cross-site tracking, Safari works endlessly to help keep your data safe.

Fingerprinting Defense. Your device blends in.

Fingerprinting Defense. Your device blends in.

Safari works to prevent advertisers and websites from using the unique combination of characteristics of your device to create a “fingerprint” to track you. To combat fingerprinting, Safari presents a simplified version of the system configuration so more devices look identical to trackers, making it harder to single yours out.

Passkeys. Simple. Secure. So not a password.

A passkey eliminates the need for a password by using a unique digital key that only works from the site or app it was created for, so you don’t have to worry about website leaks or phishing. Passkeys are securely synced across Apple devices. Just use Touch ID or Face ID to authenticate and you’re done.

Mac is better with Safari.

+50% faster loading speeds

of frequently visited websites on average than Chrome. 2

Up to 4 hours more streaming video.

Compared to Chrome. 3

Up to 17 hours of video streaming. 3

Safari helps your workflow., work seamlessly with google..

Work seamlessly with Google.

Safari works seamlessly with Google Docs, Google Sheets, and Google Slides so you can share and collaborate across all your files.

One connected experience.

Safari syncs your passwords, bookmarks, history, tabs, and more across Mac, iPad, iPhone, and Apple Watch. And when your Mac, iOS, or iPadOS devices are near each other, they can automatically pass what you’re doing in Safari from one device to another using Handoff.

Translate entire web pages.

Translate entire web pages.

Translate entire web pages with a single click. You can also get translations for text in images and paused video without leaving Safari.

Quick Note feature.

Notes is your go-to app to capture any thought. And with the Quick Note feature, you can instantly jot down ideas as you browse websites without having to leave Safari.

Visual Look Up.

Visual Look Up.

Quickly learn more about landmarks, works of art, breeds of dogs, and more with only a photo or an image you find online. And easily lift the subject of an image from Safari, remove its background, and paste it into Messages, Notes, or other apps.

Apple warns iPhone owners to ditch Chrome for Safari to protect their privacy – here's what to do

Reality Check: Is Safari really better for privacy than Chrome?

This week, Apple adopted some interesting tactics to convince iPhone owners that they should be using Safari on iOS – including scaring them with a new, Black Mirror -esque video ad.

The 'Privacy on iPhone' video shows people using unnamed web browsers surrounded by flying security cameras that watch their every scroll. "Your browsing is being watched," it warns in an unsubtle poke at Google Chrome.

Apple has previously called  Android a "massive tracking device"  in an internal presentation that surfaced during a Google antitrust trial last year. However, while Chrome isn't mentioned in the ad, the browser is undoubtedly its main target.

So is the ad right? Does Safari have massive privacy advantages over rival iOS browsers like Chrome, and should you be switching? We've broken it all down below, including a look at why Apple's running this campaign now...

The claim: New Apple ad says "your browsing is being watched, Safari helps stop it"

This week, Apple released a new ad (above) with the tagline "Your browsing is being watched." The video shows scenes of flying security cameras and, later, robot bats snooping on oblivious people as they casually browse the web on their phones.

The scenes become increasingly sinister, with one man throwing his phone overboard from a boat and a flock of security cameras descending on a woman. Fortunately, she knows how to instantly destroy the cameras – by tapping Safari on her iPhone. The ad ends with the line 'Safari. A browser that's actually private.' 

There's no explicit mention of Google Chrome in the ad, but it's clear what Apple is referring to – Chrome currently has a 67% share of mobile browsers, compared to 23% for Safari (according to StatCounter ).

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While Chrome is the world's most popular browser, it isn't without its critics. The two main criticisms are its default use of tracking cookies and its seemingly limited Incognito mode . Apple goes pretty hard on the latter in an accompanying WebKit blog post for its new ad. 

That post states that "Apple believes that users should not be tracked across the web without their knowledge or their consent. Entering Private Browsing is a strong signal that the user wants the best possible protection against privacy invasions, while still being able to enjoy and utilize the web. Staying with the 2005 definition of private mode as only being ephemeral, such as  Chrome’s Incognito Mode , simply doesn’t cut it anymore. Users expect and deserve more."

So, does Apple have a point? And what does this all mean when it comes to choosing the best web browser for your iPhone?

The reality: Safari is more privacy-focused than Chrome, but that's not the whole story

In general, Safari on iOS places a greater emphasis on privacy than Chrome. But it also can't completely stop third parties from collecting your data, and mobile web browsers are also in a state of flux, which explains the timing of this Apple ad.

It's helpful to understand that backstory. Until this year, iOS web browsers have been less differentiated than their desktop equivalents, because Apple forced them all – even Chrome – to be built on WebKit, which is the browser engine used by Safari.

However, the EU's recent Digital Markets Act (DMA) means that, at least in that region, Apple has been strong-armed into allowing third-party web browsers to use other engines, like Blink. In theory, this means that we could soon start to see browsers like Chrome offer something closer to their full desktop experience on iPhones – which could change the picture and also convince some Safari users to switch.

That's not all. The DMA's requirements also meant that, from iOS 17.4, iPhone users started seeing a choice screen when they opened Safari for the first time, letting them pick their default browser from a list. This is another threat to Safari's dominance on the iPhone, with some smaller browsers like Brave reporting a big spike in downloads when that feature was rolled out in March.

This all helps to explain the timing of Apple's ad. But does Apple still have a point about privacy in Safari? Overall, Apple's browser does have more robust privacy features turned on by default than Chrome. Since 2017, Apple has made Intelligent Tracking Prevention (ITP) a staple of Safari and WebKit, which means that the feature's cross-site tracking restrictions have also affected the iOS version of Chrome (which is, for now, built on WebKit).

While it's possible to boost your privacy on Chrome, some of its features – like Incognito mode – also aren't necessarily as powerful as their Safari equivalents. 

For example, Google was forced to admit in a class-action lawsuit in 2020 that your data is still collected in Incognito mode . Safari's private browsing mode (tap the two squares in the bottom-right corner, then swipe across to 'Private') also isolates your browsing across different tabs, whereas Chrome adds every tab to the same session – which means you need to close every Incognito tab to keep your data private.

It's possible to boost your privacy in both Safari and Chrome by tweaking your settings. To do this, head to Apple's guide to browsing privately in Safari on iOS – if you want to stick to Chrome, go to Google's guide to managing Chrome safety and security or its steps for browsing in Incognito mode . 

Safari's Private Browsing mode is also stronger in other areas. Extensions with website access are now turned off by default, and 'search suggestions' are only generated on-device. You can also turn on 'Locked Private Browsing' by going to Settings > Safari > Privacy & Security > Require Face ID to Unlock Private Browsing, although there is also an option to do this in Chrome's settings, too.

While it's possible to boost privacy in both Safari and Chrome, Apple's browser offers stronger protections by default – if that's the main thing you're looking for in a browser.

The verdict

If you're on iOS and privacy is a priority when choosing a web browser, then Safari is a good choice and likely a better bet than using Chrome. While both are (currently) built on the same WebKit engine, Safari's features and default settings lean more strongly towards privacy than its Google equivalent.

That said, Safari also isn't a gold standard for privacy and there are alternative options. On desktop, we recommend using a VPN alongside Safari for maximum protection, and it's the same on iOS – check out our guide to the best iPhone VPNs for some options, like NordVPN (our current top pick).

We're also now seeing some interesting new privacy-focused browser contenders emerging on iOS. Arc Search has AI-powered features like 'Browser for Me' and strong privacy settings. These let you block ads, trackers and GDPR cookie banners on all websites, although it isn't clear if the app actually opts out of cookies on GDPR banners or simply hides them.

Another privacy-focused alternative that's worth checking out is Brave (above), which now has an iOS version. Its strongest privacy tools, like ad blockers, are enabled by default, so you don't need to dive into its settings with a snorkel – and there's the option of adding a (slightly overpriced) VPN with a subscription. 

Our early verdict on Brave called it "a great alternative to today’s more popular (but more data-hungry) services", even if "It's not a perfect product, given that the ad-blocker sometimes forgets to do its job."

On the other hand, it's also perfectly reasonable to prioritize features other than privacy when choosing your web browser, and if that's the case, then you certainly shouldn't rush to switch from Chrome on iOS. If you use Chrome on desktop, you can synchronize your bookmarks across devices, while Firefox lets you do the same with tabs.

You might also like

• Best privacy tool and anonymous browser of 2024
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Mark is TechRadar's Senior news editor. Having worked in tech journalism for a ludicrous 17 years, Mark is now attempting to break the world record for the number of camera bags hoarded by one person. He was previously Cameras Editor at both TechRadar and Trusted Reviews, Acting editor on Stuff.tv, as well as Features editor and Reviews editor on Stuff magazine. As a freelancer, he's contributed to titles including The Sunday Times, FourFourTwo and Arena. And in a former life, he also won The Daily Telegraph's Young Sportswriter of the Year. But that was before he discovered the strange joys of getting up at 4am for a photo shoot in London's Square Mile. 

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Apple warns millions of iphone users—stop using google chrome.

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New Chrome warning issued for 1.4 billion million Apple iPhone users

Updated July 18 with pickup on Apple’s criticism of Chrome in new Webkit release.

We all know relationships can be complicated, but few are quite as complicated as the one between Apple and Google. Cue Apple’s creepy new attack ad on Google—with a clear message for its 1.4 billion users—stop using Chrome on your iPhone.

So, why now? Google is on a mission to convert Safari users to Chrome. It currently relies on Safari to drive most search requests from iPhones—enabled by a financial arrangement between itself and Apple, whereby Google search is the default on Safari. But that arrangement could soon be curtailed by monopoly investigations in the US and Europe. And so Google is advancing Plan B.

Apple billboard in NYC

Chrome only has a 30% install base across iPhone users—Google’s target is to increase this to 50%, bringing another 300 million iPhone users inside its data tent . Apple obviously wants to stop this happening. Those 300 million pairs of eyeballs generate serious online revenue, and as search changes through the introduction of on-device AI, it will become a retention versus conversion battleground.

That’s why you may have seen Apple’s Safari privacy billboards popping up in the city where you live. What started as a local campaign in San Francisco has now gone global. And while the ads don’t mention Chrome, they don’t need to. Nothing else matters. Between them, Safari and Chrome enjoy a greater than 90% market share on mobile devices. And on iPhone, it’s a straight shootout between the two of them.

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Privacy is Chrome’s Achilles’ heel. Tracking cookies remain , with plans to phase them out already delayed as Google navigates an ongoing regulatory minefield. Chrome’s quasi-privacy mode is much less private than users assumed. And in recent days we have seen warnings that Google captures device data from Chrome users with a hidden setting that cannot be disabled.

Apple has just raised the stakes in this privacy battle with a new video ad that applies Hitchcock’s “The Birds” to smartphone privacy. It’s powerful and memorable and its message is clear. If you don’t want to be watched online, use Safari. Which means—very, very simply, if you don’t want to be watched online, don’t use Google Chrome. I have approached Google for any comments on the new ad.

Hitchcock’s ‘The Birds’

When The Birds was released in the 1960s, it was shocking and frightening and thought provoking. Its message was there’s a threat we don’t really see, but which is everywhere. As one character says in the movie: “Who are you? What are you? Where did you come from? I think you're the cause of all of this. I think you're evil.”

While there are suggestions in the video that this might be targeting Android users to bring them across to iPhone, that’s not the point. No users are going to ditch Android just to access a different browser, however punchy the ad. This is about keeping iPhone users within Apple’s walled garden. But even so, it might not be that simple.

The stark reality for Apple is that its users prefer Google Search. And Apple itself has reportedly found this to be better than alternatives. Echoes here of Apple dropping Google Maps some years ago and then having to u-turn. We can assume that even if Google is dropped as the default search on Safari, users will be able to set it manually.

The question then becomes will Google offer advanced AI search features on Chrome that are not available elsewhere. We know such moves have been considered if dismissed for now, but such AI browser integrations are still in their infancy. And in that regard, Apple has other critical anti-Chrome messaging that is coming into play.

In addition to the Birds-inspired video and social media ads, Apple has also released a “ Private Browsing 2.0 ” update to highlight its recent innovations to enhance the security and privacy of Safari users. “We’ve enhanced web privacy immensely,” Apple says, “and hope to set a new industry standard for what Private Browsing should be.”

This did not receive much attention on release given the punchy nature of the video, but it is now being picked up on social media and has very significant implications with its “big punch” at Google Chrome as one post on X describes it.

This is a huge deal for in the intensifying Chrome versus Safari browser war, and extends beyond just iPhone. Google is pushing its Topics API to break the current deadlock over cookie deprecation. It is not being allowed by regulators to just kill off tracking cookies given the damage to the marketing industry without an alternative.

The Topics API is supposed to present that alternative, to strike a balance between stopping cross-site individual fingerprinting and targeted marketing, with users grouped into likeminded but anonymous cohorts to be presented to advertisers.

But as Apple points out, “imagine what advanced machine learning and artificial intelligence can deduce about you based on various combinations of interest signals. What patterns will emerge when data brokers and trackers can compare and contrast across large portions of the population? Remember that they can combine the output of the Topics API with any other data points they have available, and it’s the analysis of all of it together that feeds the algorithms that try to draw conclusions about you.”

What Apple is saying, put simply, is that fingerprinting and cross-site tracking will persist. And that no half-measures within Chrome can match the puristic approach to privacy it claims for itself. Google is caught between the current tracking cookies we all love to hate and a new set of technologies that have thus far failed to land. Apple is seeking to undermine its Privacy Sandbox before it has even been fully released.

The browser battle is only just beginning and Apple has brought some serious weaponry into play to strike at Chrome before any changes take place. But while those 300 million Safari users may remain Apple’s for now, watch this space…

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Apple tells over a billion iPhone users to stop using Chrome — here’s Google’s response

Apple's latest attack ad sets its sights on Chrome

When it comes to using an iPhone, there are several browsers to choose from but the vast majority flock to either Chrome or Safari. It’s a competition that has heated up in the midst of a complicated relationship between Apple and Google.

Well, Apple’s latest scary attack ad is not going to make that relationship any less complicated. While it doesn’t overtly tell people to stop using Chrome, it is a rather blatant shot at Google’s browser for the ton of tracking cookies it uses — claiming that Safari is “a browser that’s actually private.”

Currently, 30% of iPhone users are running Chrome as its default browser, and Google wants to up this to 50%, according to a report from The Information . That would equate to another 300 million iOS devices, and in a time when keeping people loyal to apps is the most direct path to revenue, Apple does not want to lose this majority grip on iPhone browser usage.

So the company seems to have hatched a plan to prey on the two key problems with using its competition:

• Chrome’s hunger for tracking cookies: You’ve seen it all across the internet — those pop ups that ask whether you accept third-party cookies. Once you go into the privacy settings of Chrome, you’ll probably be stunned by the many thousands of sites tracking your whereabouts on the internet. Even worse, they look set to be around until 2025 according toGoogle's Privacy Sandbox report .
• Incognito mode is not private: This is one of a few different features of Chrome where the Mountain View company has said it cares about privacy, but its actions are a little different. For example, Google promises security in its Incognito Mode, but then had to admit this privacy shield isn’t really that private in a $5 billion class-action lawsuit .

These are things that Safari stomps out from the get-go — including preventing cross-site tracking by default, and hiding your IP address (provided you have an iCloud+ account on the latter). That makes this fertile ground for Apple to advertise on and drum up fears about its main competition.

Google's response

We reached out to Google for a response to this latest ad campaign, and the response doesn't necessarily answer the issues rather bluntly hinted at here by Apple. 

A Google spokesperson told Tom's Guide that: "Chrome is built with the goal of keeping your data safe by default and ensuring users can control when and how their data is used in Chrome to personalize their web browsing experience. We believe users should always be in control, which is why we've built easy to use privacy and security settings directly into Chrome."

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Will people actually ditch Chrome?

The browser war on iPhone is very much Apple’s to lose rather than Google’s to win, and the Cupertino crew are going in hard on the weak spot of Chrome here. And from the perspective of someone who used to work in advertising, this dystopian setup is a rather effective way of getting the message across.

Current Chrome users won’t necessarily be blind to these cookies, but may have come to terms with them and the subsequent risk. However, new iPhone users and those who weren’t necessarily aware of just how much is learned about you through Chrome browsing activity may scare them into switching.

We will be following up with Google to get their comment and reaching out to security experts for more context. Stay tuned. 

Jason brings a decade of tech and gaming journalism experience to his role as a Managing Editor of Computing at Tom's Guide. He has previously written for Laptop Mag, Tom's Hardware, Kotaku, Stuff and BBC Science Focus. In his spare time, you'll find Jason looking for good dogs to pet or thinking about eating pizza if he isn't already.

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• ViceKnightTA As much as I hate Apple, and as true as these claims about Chrome are...it begs the question...WHO are people afraid of being watched by and for what? If you have nothing to hide, you really wouldn't have any reason to be afraid of this ad right? What this ad failed to ALSO mention is that most 3rd party trusted antivirus companies package VPN and browser cleaning into their apps, which works well enough to keep you safe and secure from the no-good do-ers. For everyone else there's Firefox. Whats more scary is a proprietary company trying to lock you into their version of a 'safe haven' and discouraging or even preventing you from using any other 3rd party software you want to use. Never understood how people are willing to compromise that and then also buy into this reverse scare-tactic Apple is using. I don't have to use Chrome on my Android. But Apple users, guess what, there might come a time when the only browser they'll allow you to use is Safari, and they don't need a commercial for that. Food for thought! Reply

ViceKnightTA said: If you have nothing to hide, you really wouldn't have any reason to be afraid of this ad right?

ViceKnightTA said: I don't have to use Chrome on my Android. But Apple users, guess what, there might come a time when the only browser they'll allow you to use is Safari, and they don't need a commercial for that. Food for thought!

• RJStanford It's definitely worth remembering that Google remains fundamentally an advertising company, and chooses to pour vast amounts of money into developing Chrome and giving it away. The notion that they'd prioritize their users over their customers long-term is somewhat naive -- and their customers absolutely want that ability to track and personalize. Reply
• Robidrvr I think the biggest thing apple could do to get mobile users onto Safari would be to bring back the Windows version. I'm sure many other cross platform users like myself resist Safari because we want our browsing experience to be synchronized between devices. Reply
• View All 5 Comments

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Slow iPhone? Clearing 'Other' Storage Could Rev Up Your iPhone

I f you've used your iPhone (or any phone) for a while, it's natural for your device to start slowing down with age. That may mean it's time to bid your current iPhone goodbye and splash out for a new one ( after trading in ), but other times the issue of a sluggish iPhone might be within your control. In fact, the solution could be as simple as clearing out your storage space. No, not that  storage space. Your iPhone's "Other" storage.

If you've run out of storage before and attempted to manually free up space, you may already be familiar with Other storage. If not, let's run through what that is before we dive into how to shrink this pesky category.

What is the iPhone's Other storage?

The Other section is a mysterious, catch-all corner of your iPhone's storage. Think of it as a place where things like system files and Siri voices can be stored. But it can also be a memory hog, and that is mainly due to caching. Your cache stores elements of apps or websites so they load faster the next you use them. The cache collects items as you browse the web, stream videos or movies and when you send text messages with pictures or video. In apps like Google Maps and Chrome,  cached data can soon start to eat away at your available storage  on the device. 

To check how much space Other storage is using up, you'll need to go to  Settings  >  General  >  iPhone   Storage . After the iPhone makes its calculation, you'll see a bar graph of the categories taking up your iPhone's storage. The other storage section is usually the gray portion on the far right of the graph. Assuming your Other storage is taking up more space than it should, here are a few things you can do that could help you change that.

Offload apps

Not to be confused with deleting an app, offloading an app means the app is removed from your device, but all data is retained , for when you decide to reinstall it. Take advantage of this trick, especially if you have apps like Google Maps that use a lot of space but don't store much data. To offload an app, go back to iPhone Storage in Settings > General, tap on the app that you want to offload and then  Offload App . 

Here's a tip: In the iPhone Storage section, there's a list of apps with a number next to each name indicating the storage it uses. You can immediately get an overview of which apps are hogging memory or taking up just a little. This can help you decide which to offload.

Clear out the Safari cache and close tabs

If you use Safari often, your iPhone may be storing web history and data that you simply do not need. To clear Safari's browser cache, go to Settings > Safari and  Clear History and Website Data. And if you're a Chrome user, here's how to clear out cache on Google's browser .

Closing out tabs also helps free up storage and keeps your device running smoothly. You can manage how frequently Safari will close open tabs by going to  Settings  >  Safari  >  Close Tabs . You can keep closing tabs manually, or let Safari close out tabs that haven't been viewed for a day, a week or a month. 

Stop storing texts forever

By default, your iPhone stores all of the text messages you send and receive... forever. This is convenient if you need to look up a 15-month-old conversation, but not so convenient if you need your storage space back. To stop your phone from saving texts forever, open up  Settings  and tap Messages . Scroll down until you find Message History and tap Keep Messages . Change Forever to 30 Days or 1 Year . A pop-up will ask you if you want to delete older messages; tap Delete to proceed.

Reset your iPhone

If all else fails, a surefire way to dump a lot of the junk contained in Other storage is by  resetting your iPhone , even if you can't fully empty it. 

For more iPhone tips and tricks , check out these hidden iOS 17 feature s, iPhone settings to change ASAP , and how to make your iPhone feel more like your old Android phone . Plus, we have tips for making your phone last longer before you have to replace it.

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HOW TO SET SAFARI AS DEFAULT BROWSER ON IPAD

iPad Pro, iPadOS 16

Posted on Mar 20, 2023 12:44 PM

Posted on Mar 20, 2023 2:56 PM

Axel Foley wrote:

Open Settings ➡️ Safari ➡️ Default Browser App : Tap on this and choose Safari.

That option only exists in 3rd party browsers' settings. Safari is the default browser by, well..., default and has no such setting.

If it was changed in the Settings for one of the other browsers, then it has to be changed back there.

In Chrome for example:

Also the setting is global for all 3rd party browsers installed. So if you change it in one, it will change for all other installed browsers.

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Mar 20, 2023 2:56 PM in response to Axel Foley

Mar 20, 2023 2:07 PM in response to MrMom

If you have more than one browser setup to be used on your iPad, then you can set one of browsers as the default browser. I understand that you would like to setup Safari as your default browser on your iPad.

Mar 20, 2023 2:59 PM in response to Phil0124

Understood. I recall now. Thanks.

What is the first step after a data breach? How to protect your accounts

Ticketmaster , Advance Auto Parts, Santander Bank, ATT , Bank of America, file transfer service MOVEit, Trello and Discord. Those are just some of the major companies targeted in data breaches so far this year.

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It’s easy to ignore news of a data breach, I know. There are just so many that it all turns into white noise. The Change Healthcare hack alone exposed one-third of Americans. That’s either you or someone you love dearly.

So, what do you do if your data is exposed? Your No. 1 goal is to protect yourself from future scams.

Do these things right away

◾ Make a list of your data that was exposed .

Keep a document, Post-it, a note on your phone, or whatever works for you. Be suspicious of anyone who references it in an email or phone call to prove they’re legit. Say your home address was leaked and someone contacts you about an issue with your mortgage. Yep, it’s probably a scam.

◾ Watch your money.

Update your PIN and banking login credentials. Even if they weren’t involved directly in the breach, hackers can use your personal info to access it. Keep an eye on your bank and credit card statements.

◾ Freeze your credit.

This will keep scammers from opening a credit card or loan in your name. Like setting up a fraud alert, you'll need to contact each of the three credit bureaus . It takes a little work, but it’s a solid defense against criminals trying to ruin your financial future.

Crooks love to play the long game

They’ll wait until your guard is down and target you months after the initial breach.

This is part of the reason so many people fall for phishing scams. The crooks are going into text, call and email exchanges with a lot of ammo.

◾ Be wary of any email requests . Even if a request is legit, it’s OK to take your time to figure it out. If it’s the first you’re hearing of something (like wiring your boss a bunch of money), it’s not urgent. Better safe than sorry.

◾ Watch out for health care-related requests . If you receive an explanation of benefits or a bill for services you didn't receive, contact your health care provider and insurance company right away. Someone else may have gotten those services using your name.

◾ If you get an out-of-the-blue message from an old friend , be extremely cautious. Hackers love to use your info to pose as friends or family. These often start with an innocent-seeming text. Ignore texts from strangers who pretend to have the wrong number and want to chat, too.

What about when passwords are revealed?

On July 4, Hackers posted a file named RockYou2024.txt to a dark web forum. The file includes a mind-numbing 9,948,575,739 passwords. And there’s a very good chance it puts you at risk. The RockYou2024 leak is made up of passwords from both old and new data breaches.

It’s one thing when criminals have your name, phone number and financial details. Having access to your passwords is a whole different ball game.

The tactic is called credential stuffing

This is when crooks take your leaked passwords and try to break into as many services, sites, accounts and apps as they can. They’re hoping you got lazy at least once and reused that password somewhere else.

Any system that isn't protected against brute-force attacks is at risk, and this goes beyond smartphones and computers. Even internet-connected cameras and industrial equipment are on the hackable list.

What are your next steps?

Visit Cybernews' Leaked Password Checker to see if your passwords were exposed. HaveIBeenPwned is another option. Enter your email address into either one, and I’ll bet you’ll find yourself on the list.

Now the hard part: Reset the passwords for every single account associated with those leaked passwords.

Your browser can help

Your browser’s password manager can alert you if your passwords have been involved in a breach. Here’s how to view or enable this feature in three popular browsers:

◾ Google Chrome: Password alerts are enabled by default. If you think you might’ve missed one, head to Google’s Password Manager and run a Password Checkup .

◾ Microsoft Edge: You’ll need to turn on Edge’s Password Monitor . To do this, go to Settings and more (the three-dot menu at the top right of your browser window) > Settings > Profiles > Passwords . Then, toggle on the switch for Show alerts when passwords are found in an online leak .

◾ Apple Safari: Password monitoring is on by default for browsers running on MacOS 14 or iOS 14 and later. To check for alerts on your iPhone or Mac, and to update any compromised passwords, go to Settings > Passwords > Security Recommendations > Change Password on Website .

Oh, and this is important to remember: Any random two-factor authentication (2FA) codes you receive via email or text that you didn’t ask for could mean someone is trying to access your accounts.

Share this tip with someone you care about. Protecting others from scams starts with knowledge.

Learn about all the latest technology on the  Kim Komando Show , the nation's largest weekend radio talk show. Kim takes calls and dispenses advice on today's digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data hacks. For her daily tips, free newsletters and more, visit her website.

Apple takes aim at the world's most popular browser in creepy new ad - see for yourself

The world's most popular cell phone company is not-so-subtly criticizing the world's most popular browser, and it's doing so in a rather creepy way.

In an ad that debuted yesterday on the official Apple YouTube channel, the company calls out browsers that don't protect user privacy, and while it never says so directly, the implication is that it's talking about Google Chrome. You can watch it below.

The ad, which has definite Hitchcock or Black Mirror vibes, shows a city scene with security cameras that turn into birds and bats. The birds fly around people and watch what they're doing on their phones, representing the way websites track your activity. After a minute of the birds spying on various people, a message pops up: "Your browsing is being watched." 

The camera/bird hybrids get worse, with dozens of them flocking around screaming phone users. When people open Safari on their phones, though, the creepy surveillance animals explode. Two final messages appear: "Safari. A browser that's actually private" and "Privacy. That's iPhone." 

Also: I'm a browser expert - here are two new reasons why Arc is my default for MacOS

The point of the ad is simple. Instead of trusting Google with your privacy, a company that doesn't seem to take it seriously (and recently warned  not to share anything personal with its AI ), trust Apple, a company that seems to put  your privacy at the forefront (CEO Tim Cook once called privacy a " basic human right ").

Google has been working on some privacy-focused initiatives like stopping third-party cookies , but collecting and selling your data for personalized ads is a large part of its business model. Safari offers a privacy tracking report that shows what sites are tracking you .

Also: 5 ways to improve your Chrome browser's security (and why you should)

The question is, will people care enough to make a change? Chrome is the world's most popular browser by a large margin, and people generally stick with the technology they're comfortable with. Of course, Safari is only available in the Apple ecosystem, so Android and PC users are out of luck anyway. But if you're an Apple user not using Safari, the ad gives you something to think about. 

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