Is Brave Browser Safe? Security Recap | VeePN Blog (2024)

What is the Brave browser?

Brave is a free web privacy-oriented browser. Founded in 2016 by Brendan Eich — father of JavaScript and one of the developers behind the renowned Firefox browser — Brave is on a mission to offer users improved privacy and protection from Big Tech.

Like Chrome and Edge, Brave uses the Chromium Web core, which is an open-source project focused on making the Internet secure and reliable. This means, just like with other Chromium browsers, its code is open for anyone to inspect and suggest changes.

You can get Brave on various platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux computers, and Android and iOS mobile devices.

Brave browser’s features

Need more details? We’ve got you covered! Let’s discover what sets Brave browser apart.

Does Brave browser have a VPN?

Yes, Brave browser has the built-in Brave Firewall + VPN feature available as a paid subscription service in the desktop version. It offers an additional layer of privacy and security by encrypting your Internet connection and masking your IP address.

💡 Pro tip: For full data protection across all devices, consider using VeePN — a VPN provider offering user-friendly dedicated apps for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and browser extensions for Chrome, Edge, and Firefox. Give it a try to enhance your online security, bypass Internet restrictions, and surf the web worry-free on up to 10 devices at once!

Brave’s primary focus is to surpass industry security standards and help users surf the Internet with ease. So, does it live up to the hype and expectations when it comes safety?

Is Brave browser safe to use?

No doubt. At least it’s much safer than other popular browsers like Chrome and Firefox. Brave has a robust privacy policy and is powered by several digital security shields. Also, unlike popular browsers, Brave can completely discard browsing data when you close the app.

Let’s learn more about Brave browser’s security and other perks.

Brave browser: Pros and cons

Here are the main advantages of the Brave browser.

• Privacy focus: Blocks ads and trackers that monitor your actions and keeps your online steps private.
• Cookie control: Prevents tracking cookies, offers detailed security customization, and blocks website scripts.
• Built-in password manager: Helps you manage and secure your passwords within the browser.
• Privacy-first search engines: Lets you choose from various privacy-focused search engines, including Brave Search, DuckDuckGo, Qwant, and more. Google is also available as an option.
• Secure links: Automatically upgrades HTTP connections to more secure HTTPS whenever possible.
• Smooth transition: Lets you seamlessly install most Chromium-based browser extensions for an easy switch from other platforms.

Despite its best efforts, Brave browser still faces challenges and controversies. It’s important for you to count them in when considering using the browser.

Brave browser disadvantages

• Advertisem*nt approach. While Brave blocks unsolicited ads, occasional banner ads might still appear. Popup ads are replaced with Brave-approved ads as part of the browser’s funding mechanism to support its mission.
• Mixed reactions to the Rewards system. Brave’s auto-contribution and rewards system, which compensates users in digital currency for viewing ads, receives both positive and negative feedback.
• Brave browser’s security issues. In terms of security, Brave browser isn’t exempt from issues. Here is a recap of some:
  • “Tor Mode” bug revealed IP addresses. In “Tor mode,” meant to hide IPs, a bug showed users’ real IP addresses due to DNS requests going outside Tor.
  • Affiliate links misused. Back in 2020, the browser faced criticism for redirecting URLs from cryptocurrency companies to affiliate links that Brave profits from.
  • Copyrighted data controversy. More recently, Brave faced allegations of supposedly selling copyrighted data to train artificial intelligence models. This controversy gave rise to discussions about privacy and data handling practices.

While the company had been quick in fixing any issue found, a risk of more issues arising in future always remains. But is this risk the same as with other industry giants, like Chrome , Firefox, and Edge? Let’s quickly find out how Brack stacks against them.

Brave vs Google Chrome

Main distinction: Chrome lets you enhance security using privacy-focused browser extensions, including a good VPN for Chrome. Meanwhile, Brave follows “privacy by default” approach and provides maximum Internet security and privacy right from the start, with no manual adjustments needed on your part.

Brave vs Microsoft Edge

Main distinction: Edge is often critizised for its heavy RAM usage, which eats up lots of energy and reduces device battery life. This is a big concern for people who rely on their laptops or tablets for long work hours, as the browser’s memory use quickly depletes power reserves. In the meantime, Brave’s built-in ad and tracker blocking is among its standout features that helps cut down on energy usage, even more so than browsing in private mode.

💡 Pro tip: To make Edge faster and safer, you can use the Edge VeePN extension. This will add much-needed protection for your browser, blocking annoying ads and trackers.

Brave vs Mozilla Firefox

Main distinction: Brave stands out with its privacy emphasis, featuring automatic ad blocking and built-in Tor. In contrast, Firefox lacks ad blocking, but you can improve online privacy by using a VPN Firefox extension to get rid of ads.

Brave vs Tor

Main distinction: Brave provides convenience with built-in Tor and ad blocking, while Tor Browser prioritizes unmatched anonymity. Tor routes your Internet traffic via its network and complicates online tracking. However, this routing can also significantly slow down your browsing.

In short, go for Brave if looking for both privacy and usability, and for Tor Browser if willing to sacrifice speed for unwavering anonymity.

Brave against other browsers: Round-up

To sum it up — Is Brave Browser safe to use?

All in all — yeah. While the Brave browser isn’t 100% perfect, its security features are undoubtedly appealing. It’s got your back with built-in privacy protection measures and strong defenses against online dangers. Brave is all about keeping you safe without slowing you down, making it a solid choice for folks who want to browse securely.

Last but not least, if you want to strengthen your online security or pick a specific virtual location, try out VeePN on any needed device! It’ll protect your data everywhere and let you travel the web without restrictions. A secure online experience with no caps in your way.

Written by VeePN Research Lab VeePN Research Lab is dedicated to provide you latest posts about internet security and privacy.