DuckDuckGo has updated its privacy-focused browser to better protect users from a rising tide of online threats. The DuckDuckGo Scam Blocker now defends against fake cryptocurrency exchanges, scam e-commerce storefronts, and fraudulent virus alerts, expanding beyond its previous capabilities of blocking phishing sites and malware.
This update comes at a critical time. According to the Federal Trade Commission, Americans lost $12.5 billion to fraud in 2024—a staggering 25% increase from 2023. Online shopping scams ranked as the second most reported type of fraud, making tools like Scam Blocker even more vital.
How DuckDuckGo Scam Blocker Works
When browsing with DuckDuckGo’s Scam Blocker:
- Pop-ups and links to malicious sites may still appear.
- However, clicking them won’t load the site. Instead, Scam Blocker presents a warning message, allowing users to safely navigate away.
DuckDuckGo emphasized that privacy remains a priority. The browser uses a locally stored dataset of harmful URLs provided by Netcraft, a trusted independent cybersecurity firm.
Privacy-First Approach
Unlike traditional browser extensions, DuckDuckGo Scam Blocker does not track users. Here’s how it works:
- Malicious URL lists are stored on DuckDuckGo’s servers and pushed to your browser every 20 minutes.
- The data is then stored locally on your device.
- An anonymized hashing system ensures the company doesn’t know which sites you’ve visited.
“That, along with an anonymized hashing solution that obscures the sites you’ve visited, means your browsing remains anonymous,” the company told CNET.
This design minimizes data exchange between your device and DuckDuckGo’s servers, ensuring both faster performance and stronger privacy.
Availability and Features
Scam Blocker is:
- Free to use
- Available on both mobile and desktop browsers
- Enabled by default, so there’s no need to activate it manually
DuckDuckGo is known for delivering tools that protect user data without sacrificing functionality. Scam Blocker builds on that reputation by blending cybersecurity and privacy-first browsing in one intuitive experience.
Why It Matters
As online scams grow more sophisticated, tools like DuckDuckGo Scam Blocker offer a critical line of defense—especially for users seeking both security and anonymity. Whether you’re browsing for crypto news, shopping online, or reading emails, this update provides a safer environment with zero added effort.
Want to explore more about DuckDuckGo? Check out:
DuckDuckGo’s built-in VPN services
What to know about the DuckDuckGo browser
5 reasons to switch from traditional search engines.
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