Most people assume their Chromebook is already secure. It runs ChromeOS, uses sandboxing, and updates regularly in the background. For casual users, that might sound like enough.
In reality, there are a few gaps that can leave you open to scams, tracking, or even data loss if you’re not paying attention. The good news is, tightening things up doesn’t take long. A few small changes today can keep your information far more secure tomorrow.
Start with Secure Platforms—No Matter What You’re Doing Online
Whether you’re buying a new pair of headphones, looking for the best deal on a flight, or logging into a casino site, one of the easiest ways to get burned is by visiting a sketchy platform.
Too many people overlook this part and focus on passwords or antiviruses, forgetting that the platforms they interact with can be the biggest point of failure.
Gambling expert Andreea Stanescu has pointed out that safe and secure gambling sites use strong encryption like SSL or AES, have serious anti-fraud protections in place, and carry licenses from legitimate regulators.
These same principles apply far beyond casino sites. Look for visual cues like the padlock in your browser’s address bar. Read privacy policies.
Check for any mention of PCI compliance if you’re paying with a card. In short, don’t hand your information over to platforms that wouldn’t meet the basic requirements for a gambling license.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds a layer of friction, yes. In spite of that, it also makes it considerably harder for anyone to access your Google account, even if they somehow manage to get your password.
Head to your Google Account settings, then tap on “Security.” From there, turn on 2FA and choose your preferred second factor (usually your phone). You’ll now need a code or prompt from your device before anyone can log in.
This simple change shuts down most brute force attempts and keeps your Gmail, Drive, and synced Chrome data much safer. If you’re using your Chromebook for work, this should be non-negotiable.
Use Guest Mode When Sharing
If someone else needs to use your Chromebook, always switch to Guest Mode. It’s there for a reason. In Guest Mode, the user can’t access your files, apps, or browsing history. Once they log out, everything from their session is wiped automatically.
It takes seconds to switch over, and it means you don’t have to worry about someone poking around or accidentally leaving behind malware. For school-issued or shared household Chromebooks, this is especially important.
Update Your Extensions and Delete the Useless Ones
Extensions can be helpful. However, they can also become serious security risks if you’re not paying attention. Developers stop maintaining some, and others get sold to shady third parties that slip in adware or worse.
Go to chrome://extensions and scan your list. If you see anything you don’t recognize (or something you haven’t used in months), remove it. While you’re at it, tap “Details” and check the permissions for the ones you keep. No extension should need access to every site you visit unless there’s a clear reason.
Some fake extensions mimic real ones, too, so if something looks off or starts acting weird, don’t ignore it.
Set Up Smart Lock, But Use It Wisely
Smart Lock lets you keep your Chromebook unlocked when it’s near your phone or another trusted device. This can be helpful at home, especially if you’re switching back and forth between tasks. However, be careful with how you use it.
If you leave your Chromebook in a shared space (like a dorm lounge or kitchen), Smart Lock could leave you exposed if someone else walks by while your phone is nearby. Use this setting only in places you know are physically secure.
Smart Lock works well if you’re alone and don’t want to type in your password every time, but it shouldn’t replace caution when it comes to physical security.
Lock It When You Walk Away
It seems obvious, but many people forget: Just lock the screen when you leave your Chromebook unattended. Even a short break can be long enough for someone to jump in and send an email, snoop through files, or install something sketchy.
You can hit Search + L to lock it instantly. You can also go into your settings and have your Chromebook lock automatically when it sleeps or the lid is closed. In a shared workspace or coffee shop, this quick shortcut makes a big difference.
Turn Off Bluetooth When You Don’t Need It
Leaving Bluetooth on all the time opens up another channel someone could potentially exploit. It’s rare, but there have been attacks that used Bluetooth vulnerabilities to get into devices without the user even realizing it.
To be safe, turn it off when you’re not actively using a wireless accessory. You’ll save battery, and you’ll close off another possible entry point.
Here’s a quick recap to help you implement the most critical steps:
- Stick to secure, encrypted, and licensed platforms: Whether you’re shopping, streaming, or gaming, use only trusted websites.
- Enable 2FA: Add that extra step to protect your entire Google ecosystem.
- Use Guest Mode when sharing your Chromebook: Keep your personal files inaccessible to others.
- Clean up your extensions: Delete what you don’t use and double-check permissions.
- Be smart with Smart Lock: Use it only in trusted physical locations.
- Always lock your screen: Don’t assume you’ll be back in time.
- Disable Bluetooth when you’re not using it: Less exposure, better battery life.
Each of these tips works on its own. When put together, they turn your Chromebook from secure by default into secure by design. Most attackers go after the easiest targets. These steps make sure you’re not one of them.
