* [Blog](https://www2.paloaltonetworks.com/blog) * [SASE](https://www2.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/sase/) * [Product Features](https://www2.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/sase/category/product-features/) * Six Uncomfortable Truths ... # Six Uncomfortable Truths About Working in Web Browsers [](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww2.paloaltonetworks.com%2Fblog%2Fsase%2Fsix-uncomfortable-truths-about-working-in-web-browsers%2F) [](https://twitter.com/share?text=Six+Uncomfortable+Truths+About+Working+in+Web+Browsers&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww2.paloaltonetworks.com%2Fblog%2Fsase%2Fsix-uncomfortable-truths-about-working-in-web-browsers%2F) [](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww2.paloaltonetworks.com%2Fblog%2Fsase%2Fsix-uncomfortable-truths-about-working-in-web-browsers%2F&title=Six+Uncomfortable+Truths+About+Working+in+Web+Browsers&summary=&source=) [](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com//www.reddit.com/submit?url=https://www2.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/sase/six-uncomfortable-truths-about-working-in-web-browsers/&ts=markdown) \[\](mailto:?subject=Six Uncomfortable Truths About Working in Web Browsers) Link copied By [Monique Lance](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/author/monique-lance/?ts=markdown "Posts by Monique Lance") Sep 10, 2024 4 minutes [Product Features](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/sase/category/product-features/?ts=markdown) [Products and Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/category/products-and-services/?ts=markdown) [Use-Cases](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/sase/category/use-cases/?ts=markdown) [Prisma Access Browser](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/tag/prisma-access-browser/?ts=markdown) [Secure AI](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/tag/secure-ai/?ts=markdown) [Secure Browser](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/tag/secure-browser/?ts=markdown) Are you working right now? If so, chances are you're juggling multiple tasks beyond just reading this blog post. From checking emails and accessing work applications to exploring the latest GenAI tools, it happens in the web browser. In fact, the average worker [spends over 85% of their day in a browser](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/resources/infographics/the-state-of-security-in-the-modern-organization). While web browsers offer incredible convenience and connectivity, they also present various security challenges that must be addressed. The truth is, working in the web browser isn't as secure or straightforward as it might seem. Below, we explore seven uncomfortable truths about working in the web browser that every organization should know. 1. The Web Browser Is the New Workspace, But They're Vulnerable --------------------------------------------------------------- Most of today's work happens in the web browser, from accessing SaaS applications to handling sensitive data. However, despite this, many organizations have not adapted their security strategies to prioritize the web browser. The web browser has traditionally been a blind spot for many security tools. In 2024 alone, over 328 vulnerabilities were identified in web browsers, showing how critical this threat vector has become. Traditional security measures often focus on the [network](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-network-security) and [endpoints](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-endpoint-security), overlooking the web browser as a critical attack vector. 2. Users Are (Most Often) the Weakest Link ------------------------------------------ Human error remains one of the leading causes of security breaches, and these errors often manifest in the web browser. [Phishing attacks](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-phishing), for example, frequently target users through email or web links, tricking them into revealing credentials or downloading [malware](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-malware). Without adequate web browser security, even the most vigilant employees can fall victim, exposing the organization to significant risks. 3. Unmanaged Devices Are a Growing Risk --------------------------------------- The rise of remote work and [BYOD policies](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/resources/techbriefs/secure-your-byod-with-prisma-access-browser) means more employees access corporate resources from personal, unmanaged devices. These devices often lack the necessary security controls, making them prime targets for cybercriminals. Malware, such as screen scrapers and keyloggers, can exploit these devices to capture sensitive information accessed through the browser. Since the web browser serves as the gateway to corporate resources, it's crucial to implement robust security measures that extend to all devices, managed or not. 4. SaaS and Web Apps Are Increasingly Exploited ----------------------------------------------- On average, organizations use almost 10,000 SaaS and web apps. With the proliferation of these applications, attackers have more entry points into corporate networks than ever before. These applications, accessed through the browser, are common targets for exploitation, whether through vulnerable plugins, weak authentication, or misconfigurations. Without strong web browser security, organizations are at risk of unauthorized access and data breaches. 5. Extensions Are a Security Risk --------------------------------- While web browser extensions can enhance productivity, they often come with hidden dangers. Many web browser extensions, especially those not vetted by IT, can introduce vulnerabilities into the corporate environment. These risks can range from data leaks to full-blown breaches, as malicious extensions can access sensitive information or bypass security measures. In the rush to streamline workflows, the security of browser extensions is frequently overlooked, leaving organizations exposed to potential threats. 6. Web Browser-Based Attacks Are Evolving Faster Than Defenses -------------------------------------------------------------- Cybercriminals are continuously developing new methods to exploit browser vulnerabilities, and these attacks are becoming more sophisticated. From drive-by downloads to [zero-day exploits](https://www.csoonline.com/article/3496760/google-says-a-critical-chrome-bug-was-exploited-after-a-patch-was-released.html), the pace of innovation in attack strategies often outstrips the defenses put in place by organizations. This makes adopting advanced security measures that can keep up with the evolving threat landscape essential. ## What Can You Do? Working in the [web browser](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-an-enterprise-browser) might be convenient, but it's far from risk-free. Expanding attack surfaces are never easy to deal with. Fortunately, there is a solution: Deploying a web browser built from the ground up with enhanced security and productivity features. If these uncomfortable truths have you questioning your current security strategy, it might be time to explore secure browsers. They could be the key to safeguarding your organization in the increasingly digital landscape. To start your journey, download the *[Prisma Access Browser Solution Brief](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/resources/techbriefs/prisma-access-browser).* It's an essential resource to help you navigate the options and find the right solution for your business. Check out [Prisma Browser for Business](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/prisma-browser-for-business) to see how you can secure daily work in web browsers. [Contact us](https://start.paloaltonetworks.com/contact-us-pab.html) today to speak with our team and experience the secure browser. *** ** * ** *** ## Related Blogs ### [Mobile Users](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/sase/category/mobile-users/?ts=markdown), [Product Features](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/sase/category/product-features/?ts=markdown), [Products and Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/category/products-and-services/?ts=markdown), [Use-Cases](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/sase/category/use-cases/?ts=markdown) [#### Ensure Your Company's Business Continuity with Prisma Access Browser](https://www2.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/sase/ensure-your-companys-business-continuity-with-prisma-access-browser/) ### [Product Features](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/sase/category/product-features/?ts=markdown), [Products and Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/category/products-and-services/?ts=markdown), [Use-Cases](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/sase/category/use-cases/?ts=markdown) [#### Securing GenAI Apps in Your Web Browser](https://www2.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/sase/securing-genai-apps-in-your-web-browser/) ### [Mobile Users](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/sase/category/mobile-users/?ts=markdown), [Product Features](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/sase/category/product-features/?ts=markdown), [Products and Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/category/products-and-services/?ts=markdown), [Use-Cases](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/sase/category/use-cases/?ts=markdown) [#### Unlocking Unimagined Use Cases with Prisma Access Browser](https://www2.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/sase/unlocking-unimagined-use-cases-with-prisma-access-browser/) ### [Announcement](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/category/announcement/?ts=markdown), [News \& Events](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/sase/category/news-events/?ts=markdown), [Product Features](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/sase/category/product-features/?ts=markdown), [Products and Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/category/products-and-services/?ts=markdown), [Use-Cases](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/sase/category/use-cases/?ts=markdown) [#### The Critical Role of Enterprise Browsers in a SASE Framework](https://www2.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/sase/critical-role-of-enterprise-browsers-in-a-sase-framework/) ### [Data Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/category/data-security/?ts=markdown), [Product Features](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/sase/category/product-features/?ts=markdown), [Use-Cases](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/sase/category/use-cases/?ts=markdown) [#### The End of Data Leaks: Modern Data Security Begins in the Browser](https://www2.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/sase/the-end-of-data-leaks-modern-data-security-begins-in-the-browser/) ### [Product Features](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/sase/category/product-features/?ts=markdown), [Products and Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/category/products-and-services/?ts=markdown) [#### Secure M\&As and Accelerate Time-to-Value with Prisma Access Browser](https://www2.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/sase/secure-mas-and-accelerate-time-to-value-with-prisma-access-browser/) ### Subscribe to Sase Blogs! 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