Privacy and Security Take Center Stage: The Rise of Secure Browser Technology

The Rise of Secure Browsers: Protecting Users in the Cloud Era

The Growing Market of Secure Browsers

The proliferation of cloud applications and cloud infrastructure has made web browsers the primary platform for users to access various online services. As a result, the need for robust security controls within browsers to protect users from online threats has become more apparent. Networking and cybersecurity companies have taken notice of this trend and are entering the secure browser and browser isolation market to meet these evolving needs.

One notable example is Palo Alto Networks, which is reportedly in talks to acquire Talon Cyber Security, a provider of local browser isolation technology. Startups like Surf Security are also offering secure enterprise browsers, while consumer cybersecurity firms such as Gen (the product of the merger between NortonLifeLock and Avast) and SquareX have begun offering secure browsers for the home market. This increasing interest in browser security reflects the growing demand for protecting browser-based businesses.

Paddy Harrington, a senior analyst in Forrester’s security and risk group, emphasizes the importance of browser security given the significant amount of time users spend in browsers. Whether it’s using business productivity apps, checking emails, or conducting personal browsing, the browser has become a prime target for attackers. Different companies and users may have specific requirements, prompting enterprise browser vendors to add browser security extensions to their portfolios. This approach allows for better coverage of the diverse needs of enterprises looking to enhance their browser security.

The secure browser and browser isolation market is becoming increasingly crowded, with networking and internet infrastructure firms like Cisco, Citrix, Cloudflare, Fortinet, Menlo Security, and Zscaler incorporating remote browser isolation into their product offerings. Check Point, on the other hand, has introduced a local browser isolation plugin called Harmony Browse. Additionally, many startups, including Authentic8, Island, LayerX, and Seraphic Security, are actively working on integrating isolation into browsers.

The Importance of Browser Security

The focus on browser security arises from the growing trend of employees conducting work through web applications and software-as-a-service (SaaS) platforms. According to business intelligence firm Forrester Research, the majority of workers now rely on browsers for all their work, while a third accomplish most of their tasks within a browser. This shift towards browser-based business processes is attracting attackers who exploit vulnerabilities in browsers to launch cyber-attacks.

Gen, a consumer cybersecurity firm, reported blocking approximately 180 million web-based attacks in the second quarter alone, highlighting the significant risk that originates from the web and targets browsers. To mitigate these risks, companies have traditionally approached browser security in three ways: remote browser isolation (RBI) services in the cloud, on-premises appliances, or custom browsers/browser plugins known as local browser isolation (LBI) technology.

For instance, Menlo Security offers a remote browser isolation solution, where their technology sits between a user’s browser and the web resources they access. Whenever a user makes a request, the RBI solution connects to the website and renders it in their cloud-based browser, shielding the user’s browser from any potential malicious activity. The website being visited remains oblivious to the end-user, as all content accessed is processed and executed within Menlo Security‘s virtual cloud browser. This approach ensures that no malicious elements can reach the user’s endpoint.

Browser Security in the Era of Zero Trust

The rapid adoption of cloud applications and services during the coronavirus pandemic has prompted cybersecurity firms to address the gaps in corporate cybersecurity controls. Zero trust solutions, which emphasize strong authentication and continuous monitoring, highlight the necessity to protect users’ interactions with web and cloud applications.

According to Forrester, deploying browser security solutions is a fundamental step for companies seeking a comprehensive security posture. Many businesses rely on other security solutions while allowing browsers to operate within their enterprise. This approach exposes vulnerabilities, such as browser synchronization with personal accounts, potentially compromising passwords, introducing malicious cookies, or installing unsupported and dangerous extensions.

To address these risks, companies must establish unified policies for browser usage and implement appropriate security controls to monitor and enforce these policies. Taking a proactive approach to browser security is essential in the era of remote work and cloud-native businesses.

Editorial: Prioritizing Browser Security for a Safer Internet

In an increasingly interconnected world, the security of web browsers plays a crucial role in safeguarding users and their sensitive data. As more businesses and individuals rely on browsers to access online services, the need to fortify browser security cannot be ignored. The emergence of cloud applications and infrastructure has made web browsers the primary avenue through which attackers target users.

It’s heartening to see networking and cybersecurity companies recognizing this growing threat landscape and investing in secure browser solutions. The competition in the market indicates industry-wide recognition of the need for robust browser security, but it also raises questions about the diverse solutions available.

Different companies and users have varying requirements when it comes to browser security. An enterprise might prioritize remote browser isolation for its distributed workforce, while a consumer might prefer a local browser isolation solution for personal browsing privacy. To cater to these distinct needs, vendors should continue developing and refining their browser security offerings to ensure they provide comprehensive protection.

It’s imperative for organizations to adopt a zero trust approach to protect their users and their interactions with the web. Deploying a browser security solution should become a standard practice, enabling businesses to establish unified policies and enforce higher security standards. This includes educating users about the potential risks they face when using browsers and promoting responsible browsing habits.

As society becomes more reliant on the internet, it falls upon individuals and organizations alike to prioritize online security. By proactively investing in browser security, businesses can stay one step ahead of cybercriminals and create a safer internet for everyone.