Do they all do the same thing?
What should I really download?
Instead, were going to dive into the tools available to keep your data safe.
Dont worry, though.
You dont need to download a ton of apps to keep yourself safe and your data close to pocket.
Here are the best in each group.
Update:A lot has changed since we first published this post.
AdBlock Plus(Firefox/Chrome/Safari) blocks banner ads, pop-up ads, rollover ads, and more.
It stops you from visiting known malware-hosting domains, and also disables third-party tracking cookies and scripts.
Plus, there area ton of things you could do with it beyond just blocking ads.
This includes Java, JavaScript, Flash, and others.
Theyre powerful, but theyre also really aggressive, and will break an awful lot of sites.
Stop Everyone from Tracking Your Browsing withDisconnect
Anti-tracking and anti-cookie extensions have exploded.
You also get an easy-to-control toolbar button thats absolutely clear about the information recorded about you.
It also leaves plug-ins and scripts enabled until you specifically turn them off.
Its a great service, and frankly there arent alternatives to this one because its such a holistic package.
That said, the premium cost may be too much for some people.
Weigh your needs before opening your wallet.
HTTPS Everywhere(Firefox/Chrome) is a must-have regardless of what other security tools you opt to use.
Its a great way to protect your browsing without really lifting a finger.
Best of all,it just updatedto keep you safe on thousands more sites around the web.
Antivirus and Antimalwareutilities are essential to protecting security.
Weve recentlyupdated our pick for the best antivirus app for Windows, and wehave some options for Macas well.
Looking for antimalware?These suggestionswill get you started.
If you need another option,weve mentionedTorChatas well.
For your email,SafeGmailorMailvelope gets the job donefor Gmail and other webmail users.
For everyone else,PGPis the way to go.Heres how to set it up.
Tor is built for anonymity with a nod to securitynot the other way around.
You canread more about how Tor works here.
Its a great way to stay anonymous on the internet, but dont mistake it forsomething like a VPN.
If you currently use WoT, we recommend you uninstall it and stop using it immediately.
If youre not using any because youre not sure which to use, now you have some solid options.
Either way, the tools are at your fingertips.
Photos bycristovao(Shutterstock),creatOR76(Shutterstock),eyeidea(Shutterstock).
